- Breasts can lose their shape and firmness due to pregnancy, nursing, weight loss, and normal aging. The resulting loss of skin elasticity causes breasts to become ptotic (droopy).
- Mastopexy can raise and reshape breasts as well as reduce the size of enlarged areola (the darker skin around the nipple). Some size reduction is required to make these changes.
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- Markings are made on the breast before the operation. A "keyhole" pattern is most common.
- Excess skin is removed and the nipple and areola are repositioned. The skin is then closed around the areola in a circle. Depending on the amount of lift needed, the remainder of the breast is then closed in a straight line extending to the breast fold or in an inverted “T” with the closure continued in the fold of the breast.
- Advanced techniques are used to to maintain good blood flow and drainage to the nipple / areola complex and skin flaps while also maximizing fullness.
- After surgery, your breasts will be bruised and swollen, and you may experience some mild to moderate discomfort for a few days. You will wear a binder for support as advised.
- You may shower 48 hours post op, but should not submerge you wounds in a bath until the sutures are removed. Your sutures will be removed at approximately 2 weeks post op.
- Activity except walking is limited typically for 3 weeks then progressively advanced to unrestricted at 6 weeks post op.
- Some visible scarring is unavoidable, but is covered by most bras and bathing suits. The scars may be red and uneven for a few months, but usually fade and become less obvious. As with most plastic surgery operations, mastopexy is a trade off of concealable scars for improved contour.
- You may notice some asymmetry. This should not be unexpected as studies show approximately 90% of women have significant breast asymmetries both before and after operation. Your breasts will continue to change with time as mastopexy cannot stop the natural aging process.
- Mastopexy disrupts the breasts’ natural blood supply and drainage, so there may be skin and nipple healing difficulties. Nipple sensation may also be temporarily or permanently decreased. Other problems include, but are not limited to bleeding and infection. The ability to breastfeed is often preserved, but cannot be guaranteed.
To schedule a consultation or for more Breast lift (Mastopexy) information, please visit our contact page or call our office at 208.377.9515.
