What Does the Breast Lift Do?
A Breast Lift (Mastopexy) elevates and tightens the breasts due to removal of the excess loose skin. Depending upon the pattern of skin removal the breasts will be reshaped and the nipple/areolar skin will be elevated to a more natural and youthful position. The 'flatness' of the upper portion of the breast will be given a more rounded and youthful look and the breast will assume a more 'conical' shape rather than the widened and
flattened appearance so common of saggy breasts.
Limitations of Mastopexy
If you want to be significantly larger or smaller in volume after the procedure, then the Breast Lift would be best performed together with either a breast augmentation or a breast reduction. These additional procedures allow Dr. Harrell to vary the breast volume to give you the most desirable shape.
Breast Lift Candidacy
If you are considering a Breast Lift then the following list can help you to determine if you are a reasonably good candidate.
- You have nipples that lie below the breast fold
- Your skin is significantly stretched and your nipples are larger than desired
- Your breasts have an elongated and flat shape
- You are reasonably healthy and do not smoke or are able to cease smoking for the procedure
- You are not overly perfectionistic
Your Breast Surgery Consultation
Typically, Dr. Harrell will review your medical history, including medications, medical and surgical history, allergies, social habits and lifestyle issues. Of particular importance is a family history for breast cancer.
Dr. Harrell will also examine your breasts to assess skin tone, size and position of the areola, symmetry, size of breasts and the presence of any masses.
After this there will be a review of your specific goals and Dr. Harrell will discuss your options and make several suggestions as to the best treatment plan. Potential risks and complications will be reviewed. The advisability of a simultaneous breast augmentation or reduction will also be discussed. Further
suggestions as to preparation for surgery and postoperative care and recovery will also be discussed. Dr. Harrell tries to be as thorough as possible so that you are very educated about your choices and what is involved with the treatment. Learn more about Our Breast Surgery Consultation.
Before the Breast Lift Surgery
Each patient will have appropriate routine laboratory testing performed. A recent mammogram is strongly advised, smoking must cease and cessation of some medications or herbs may be recommended. A detailed patient information packet will be given to you to explain what you need to do to prepare for the procedure and what to expect during the post operative period of time.
Risks and Complications
The single biggest trade off of Breast Lifting is the presence of scars on the breast. These scars result from the surgical incisions used to remove the excess skin. Usually they are of good quality and do not detract in a significant way from the final result. However, occasionally some scars may be raised, widened, darker or lighter than surrounding skin and therefore be less acceptable to patients. Other potential risks include
bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, alteration in nipple sensation, contour irregularities, anesthesia risks, asymmetry, skin loss, DVT, PE and disappointment with the final result. Despite this list most patients are happy with the results and relatively few have any serious complications. Nevertheless, the decision to have surgery is an important one and only you can ultimately decide if the benefits outweigh the risks in your particular case.
The Surgery
The breast lift procedure will be performed in an accredited surgical facility and Dr. Harrell uses only physician anesthesia providers. The length of the operation can be anywhere from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours in length followed by a stay in the Recovery Room until ready for discharge.
Breast Lift Video:
Following Surgery
Dr. Harrell routinely sees his patients the day after surgery and then usually at one week, six weeks, and 4-6 months after surgery to monitor your progress and to reassure you of your normal healing and reinforcing post operative care and activity. In the early days after surgery you will have prescribed appropriate pain medication and antibiotics.
Sutures are typically self absorbing and so there is usually no need to remove sutures. Nowadays most patients are instructed to resume normal non strenuous activities for the first month after surgery. At that time they are usually ready to resume aerobic exercise and strenuous physical activities using common sense to gradually increase intensity.
The Final Results of Breast Lift Surgery
For most women final results are obtained about 6 to 12 months after surgery. This allows for all swelling to leave the breasts and for the skin to naturally stretch. In some patients the skin is so lax and stretchable that there is significant relaxation of the skin so that a revision may be desired. If so then usually this second procedure is successful. However, for most women the results of the first procedure is just right.
To learn more, please read Questions about Breast Lift Surgery.
Why Choose The Weston Center and Dr. Harrell?
At The Weston Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery, we specialize in putting the patient at ease, taking the time to understand the patient's goals and performing a thorough examination to determine the best course of action. Surgery is performed only in accredited facilities using physician anesthesia providers.
Dr. Harrell has over 22 years of experience and has a well developed artistic sense coupled with a master's technical skill to help you obtain the best results possible. It is the goal of The Weston Center to offer the best service to all of our patients. Call today for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Harrell and experience what Plastic Surgery can do for your life.
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