As women get older, it is natural for the breasts to begin to droop and lose their firmness. In addition, this process can also result after pregnancy and from breastfeeding a child, as the fibrous bands have broken down. The skin will stretch and the youthful shape that many women have been used to will change. This can mean that many women no longer like their appearance as much as they used to.
A breast lift or mastopexy surgery is designed to improve the shape and position of the breasts without necessarily reducing their size. It is a procedure that is able to restore drooping or sagging breasts, which is called ptosis, to a more youthful position, which results in improved self-esteem and confidence. Sagging breasts often appear empty and flat; a breast lift alone or in conjunction with breast augmentation, will create a more youthful full and perky look. In some cases, an implant surgery on its own may be sufficient to create volume as well as lift.
Breasts become ptotic for various reasons such as:
- Aging
- Genetics
- Dramatic weight loss
- Weight gain
- Pregnancy
What happens during the surgery?
The purpose of this procedure is to remove loose skin from the breasts and the procedure will ensure that they are lifted and reshaped to look more youthful. Before the surgery, you will meet with Dr Laniewski to discuss the procedure. This is your opportunity to ask any questions that you have and learn more about the surgery.
An incision will be made around the areola to gain access to the breast and the extra skin will be removed from underneath the breasts. Before the procedure begins, skin markings are made to ensure the correct incisions are made. Once the excess skin has been removed, the areolae will be moved to a higher position. This surgery will normally last around 90 minutes. But, this can depend on the extent of the breast lift and the patient’s circumstances.
Every effort is made to make sure that scarring from a breast lift is minimal. Scarring will fade naturally over time and will have a softer appearance. However, any scars will not be visible when you are wearing a bra or bikini top.
Does a breast lift hurt?
During the procedure, there is no pain for the patient. A general anaesthetic is administered before the surgery, which means that patients will be comfortable during the procedure. But, it is important to remember that one or two days staying in hospital will be essential after a breast lift to ensure healthy and successful results.
What happens after a breast lift?
You can expect to experience some of the following symptoms after having a breast lift. In particular, some swelling of the breast is normal, as well as discolouration and bruising. This will subside on its own after a few weeks, with any pain or discomfort diminishing too. In addition, patients should not worry if they temporarily lose breast sensation. Everything should return back to normal during some downtime and should not last long.
Indeed, some downtime is expected after having a breast lift as it is a surgery. Most patients will take one or two weeks off work for recovery. This will vary from patient to patient. Any strenuous exercise and hard activities should be avoided for at least six weeks to ensure the breasts heal in their best shape. Again, every patient will be different and Dr Laniewski will be able to advise more personally at your consultation.
You will have to wear a supportive bra after having a breast lift. This can help to control excessive swelling and with the healing process. This should be work for a number of weeks and up to two months after having surgery.
You will be able to see the full benefit of your breast lift after around three months once the swelling has subsided. Breasts will be noticeable higher and firmer, which results in the youthful look that women want.
Who is the best candidate for a breast lift?
The ideal candidate for a breast lift is to be as healthy as possible, which means sustaining a healthy weight and regular exercise. In addition, you should be a non-smoker to have a breast lift. It is important to note that if you become pregnant or put on weight, this can affect the results of your breast lift surgery. This procedure is also not to increase the size of the breasts. If this is your goal, you are more suited to having a breast augmentation, which will insert implants into the breasts.
If you would like to find out more about having a breast lift and how this surgery can help you, you can contact us today to arrange a consultation with Dr Laniewski.
