What is Breast Lifting?

Breast lifting is a very common procedure that we do. Usually a woman will lose elasticity in her skin following pregnancies and/or nursing. Not only does the woman develop stretch marks, but over 90% of the time the breast will lose volume, which only exacerbates the sagging. There are two types of ptosis or sagging. The first is called pseudoptosis and in this case the nipple is above the inframmamary fold. True ptosis is when the nipple is BELOW the fold and then many times a breast lift or mastiopexy is performed. I do these as an outpatient in my surgery center. Sometimes we will do a slight breast augmentation as well.

Who is an ideal candidate for breast lift surgery?

The ideal candidate is one who has a moderate amount of breast tissue and just needs to have it lifted. Also a woman who is motivated and not planning to have any more children because if you had the surgery and got pregnant again all bets are off and the sagging or ptosis could return. It is also imperative that you NOT smoke because this can lead to significant wound healing problems.

What is the recovery period like?

The recovery is really not too bad. I have my patients wear a sports bra all the time which helps support the breasts and makes it more comfortable. I usually have patients in a princess mode for the first 4 days. Usually they dress and can shower a day or two after their surgery. After 4 or 5 days, let comfort be your guide so if you are reaching for something or lifting and it hurts simply don't do it. Real strenuous activity, ie. golf, etc 3-4 weeks.

How is breast lift surgery done?

Breast lift surgery is done as an out-patient under sedation. In other words you feel no discomfort. Post-op there is some pain but, with pain pills, it is very manageable. The operation usually lasts about 2 hours and the time can be more depending on the degree of ptosis and whether or not we are doing an augmentation as well. The patient usually goes home and goes to bed. I will see her back a day or two later.