A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to reshape and lift the breasts. As women age or after pregnancy and breastfeeding, the breasts can lose volume and skin elasticity, causing them to sag. A breast lift can help create a more youthful breast contour by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. If you are considering a breast lift, understanding what to expect can help you prepare for surgery and recovery.
Reader's Roadmap
What is a Breast Lift?
During a breast lift, an incision is made around the areola and extends vertically down to the breast crease. Through this incision, excess skin is removed, and the remaining breast tissue is shaped into a lifted position. The nipple and areola are also repositioned higher up on the breast to complete the reshaping. The goal is to reshape sagging breasts into a proportionate and uplifted form.
What are the Benefits?
There are several benefits gained from a breast lift:
- Creates a more youthful, perky breast shape
- Reshapes, lifts and firms sagging breasts
- Removes excess, loose skin
- Repositions nipples and areolas higher on breast
- Better breast proportion and contour
- Clothes fit better over lifted breasts
- May relieve skin irritation issues caused by sagging breasts
How Long is the Hospital Stay?
A breast lift is performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility. However, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after you are discharged.
When Will I See Results?
Immediately after surgery, your results will be apparent. However, you may experience significant swelling and bruising initially that hide the final shape. As you heal, you should start to see the results of your treatment.
What is the Recovery Like?
It is normal to have some pain, soreness and discomfort for the first week following surgery. This should be controlled with the prescribed pain medication. You’ll likely feel fatigued, so sufficient rest is important in the early recovery period. Most people can return to work within seven to ten days, but strenuous activity and exercise will need to be avoided for eight to twelve weeks.
What About Scarring?
With any procedure that requires an incision, scars will be inevitable. So when it comes to a breast lift, the incisions made in the targeted areas are small. Initially, the scar can be red or inflamed, but it fades and softens significantly over one to two years. Proper care of incisions during healing can promote minimal scarring. Silicone-based gels and other topical scar treatments can also reduce scarring if applied over several months post-surgery.
What are the Risks of Breast Lift Surgery?
A breast lift is a major surgery and carries risks that should be considered. However, if performed by an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon, a breast lift is generally a safe procedure with minimal risks.
- Fluid leakage from the incisions in the first few days
- Bruising, swelling, and discomfort
- Skin irritation from surgical instruments when it rubs against your skin.
- Loss of sensation or numb areas around surgical sites
- Changes in skin pigmentation
- Allergic reactions to surgical dressings, sutures, or administered substances
The Bottom Line
A breast lift can provide women with a rejuvenated breast shape and youthful contours. Understanding what to expect prepares patients for surgery and recovery. While this cosmetic surgery does involve incisions and scarring, benefits include lifted breasts while bringing back proportion and balance. Being well-informed allows women to realistically plan for undergoing this personalised approach to breast enhancement.