1. I have recently lost weight and I am working on losing more weight. Will weight loss affect the results of a breast lift?

It would depend on how much weight you plan on losing. If it is just a few pounds, then the results won' t be affected much. If you plan to lose more than a few pounds then you might consider waiting to have surgery until you are at your target weight.

If you lose a large amount of weight after a mastopexy, your breast may sag more due to loose skin or you may need a revision. Many patients tend to lose weight in particular areas when they lose weight. If you tend to lose weight in your breasts, the effects might be more pronounced.


2. Is it safe to have a breast lift during the same setting when I am having another cosmetic surgery?

Many patients safely have other procedures, such as tummy tuck or liposuction, done at the same time as a breast lift. There are many factors to consider when deciding to have multiple surgeries at the same time. Make sure you have the surgery done at an accredited facility and if the surgery is more than a few hours, you may need to be admitted for observation overnight. Your general health is another consideration. Heart or lung disease, as well as diabetes, may be a contradiction to multiple procedures.


3. How can I find out more about breast lift surgery?

While there is plenty of information on the internet, much of it is not accurate. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) websites are good sources of patient information (http://www.plasticsurgery.org/, http://www.surgery.org/). Your best source of information is a board certified plastic surgeon in your community.


4. Will a breast lift get rid of stretch marks?

The short answer is no. There is some skin removed during a lift and if there are stretch marks on these areas, they will be removed. However, the remaining stretch marks will still be present and may be more apparent, especially if an implant is placed.


5. What incisions are made for a breast lift?

There are several types of lifts and each has it' s own incision. The most common incisions are:

-periareolar, around the areola

vertical, around the areola and from the areola to the breast crease, also known as a lollipop scar

-full scar, around the areola, from the areola to the crease and along the crease, also known as an anchor scar

While these scars will fade over time, they will always be present. There is no such thing as a scarless breast lift.


6. How should I prepare for the breast lift surgery?

You will be given specific preop instructions by your plastic surgeon. You should avoid any medications that interfere with blood coagulation such as aspirin or Motrin. Many herbal supplements can effect clotting as well and should be avoided. You should avoid smoking at least 2 weeks before and after surgery as smoking interferes with blood flow and healing. Excess alcohol and caffeine should be avoided as they can dehydrate you. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet.


7. Is there a lot of pain after a breast lift?

While you will have some postop pain, breast lift is not considered an extremely painful operation. Often, an implant is placed at the same time as a breast lift and may contribute to an increase in pain, especially if it is placed behind the muscle. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication that should minimize your discomfort.