The solution destined to restore the shape of your breasts may be the breast lift (mastopexy). This implies removing the excess skin and remodelling local tissue. Sometimes is necessary to reduce the areola in order to restore the original dimensions. The result is a breast with a firm and youthful contour.

What is the breast lift?

The breast lift (also called mastopexy) is the surgical procedure meant to lift and improve the shape for breasts which : are sagging, but proportionate with the general body aspect; have lost their consistency; have a flatter, elongated shape; have a nipple fallen below the breast crease; have an enlarged areola.

The mastopexy is designated for women desiring breasts with better form and shape. If they want also a volume increase, breast implants can be used along with the breast lift.

It is recommended to inform your plastic surgeon if you have scheduled a pregnancy in the near future. A breast lift will not affect the lactating function, but the body changes related to pregnancy may counteract the effects of this surgical procedure. An important weight loss must be also discussed. For these reasons, good candidates for mastopexy are women with normal weight, with completely developed breasts and who have completed their family. The breast lift is performed in younger women with asymmetric breasts (one of them is positioned lower than the other). The patients must be healthy and preferably non-smokers (smoking slows healing).

Where do I begin?

A consultation with your plastic surgeon is the first step to discover how a breast lift may improve your breasts. You will be fully informed about the surgical options, possible risks, complications and results; according to your wishes, your doctor will recommend you the most appropriate treatment.

Evaluation

Your overall health and general aspect may greatly influence the outcome of your surgery. For best results it is necessary to sincerely share your expectations, fully disclose your medical history, any previous treatments, the use of alcohol, recreational drugs or tobacco; it is important to tell if you have any family history of breast cancer.

My breast lift

Mastopexy is a highly-individualized procedure with a wide variety of surgical techniques. The one best suited to your case will be chosen based on: size and shape of the breasts, size and position of the areola, the degree of mammary ptosis, quality and elasticity of skin as well as skin excess.

The most commonly used pattern for breast lift uses three incisions:

- around the areola;
- vertically down from the areola to the breast crease;
- horizontally along the breast crease.

Using these incisions the mammary tissue is lifted and remodelled. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a more youthful height. If it is necessary, the areolar diameter is reduced. The excess skin is excised to compensate loss of elasticity.

The alternative techniques eliminate either the horizontal incision at the breast crease, the vertical one or both. In every case the incisions are made in such fashion that they may be hidden under a bathing suit.

Preparing for surgery

The plastic surgeon will inform you about every aspect of the operation. You will be instructed about any necessary lab tests, any recommended medicines and the chosen type of anaesthesia.

You will be asked to sign an informed consent in order to assure your surgeon that you fully understand the procedure with all the possible risks and complications. Among the possible risks are bleeding, developing an infection, alterations in nipple sensibility. Any surgical procedure comes along with anaesthetic risks.

What to expect?

The breast lifting procedures require hospitalization for 2 days.

After surgery

After completing the surgery, the incisions are covered with dressings. An elastic bra will help minimize the edema and will support the lifted breast. Sometimes drains are inserted to evacuate any fluid or blood collections underneath the skin.

At discharge, you will be instructed about any local wound care, necessary medication to help the healing process or to reduce the risk of infection and also about follow-up visits.

The healing process

In the first days following surgery you will feel some swelling and discomfort at the incisions and donor sites. These can be controlled with medication. An elastic bandage or a support bra is recommended. A return to light activities is possible a few days after surgery.

Results

The final aspect of your mastopexy will be seen in a few months. Over time your breasts will change their aspect due to aging and gravity. The breast profile is maintained by having a constant weight, a healthy lifestyle and a good support (elastic bra).

Your surgeon, your choice

The decision to have cosmetic or reconstructive surgery is important, as well as choosing the right surgeon. Not all the doctors performing these procedures are plastic surgeons. Make sure your doctor is a board- certified plastic surgeon, member of the Romanian Plastic Surgeons Association.