Why breast lift?
A breast lift can rejuvenate your figure with a breast profile that is more youthful and uplifted. A woman’s breasts often change over time, losing their youthful shape and firmness. These changes and loss of skin elasticity can result from:
- Implant removal
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Weight fluctuations
- Aging
- Gravity
- Heredity
Who is a candidate for a breast lift (mastopexy)?
One of the most common questions we get at Desert Plastic Surgery is “Do I need a lift?”.
The most common indication for a lift is sagging of the breast. A breast lift should be deferred until
after childbearing is completed. Many patients ask about the different types of breast lifts (mastopexy).
No two patients are the same and the type of lift performed varies depending on the needs of each patient.
The different types of lifts are described below:
Periareolar (donut) lift
A lift which only has a scar around the areola. It is only an option in a small percentage of patients with a small amount of sagging. It is rarely performed in our practice.
Vertical (lollipop) lift
involves an incision around the areola and between the areola and the crease below the breast. This can be done in some patients with a moderate amount of sagging and avoids a horizontal scar. In carefully selected patients it can be a good option.
INVERTED T
Also known as a full scar or anchor lift, is the most common type of lift performed in our practice and for patients who have implants removed.
Choosing the lift that’s best for you
Dr. Pierce will discuss which type of lift would be best for your particular situation.
In our practice, many patients require a lift after implant removal and capsulectomy. At your consultation, we will examine you and determine if you have enough breast tissue to support the blood supply to the nipple and areola. Many patients have already had a lift and require an additional lift to address loose skin and sagging after implant removal. At your initial consultation, we will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine if you are a good candidate for a breast lift (mastopexy).
THE PROCEDURE:
What to Expect
A lift takes between 2 to 3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Most patients go home the same day.
You will be wrapped with a surgical wrap that will stay in place until you are seen by Dr. Pierce the next day. Patients generally describe minimal pain and discomfort, but every patient is different. You will be given a prescription for pain medication and anti-nausea medication if needed.
CALL US
TEXT US
Post-Operative
Care
Most patients switch to Tylenol or Ibuprofen a day or two after surgery. You will have drains which usually come out at 1 week from surgery. Most patients can return to work after a week or so but that would depend on the type of work performed. Most patients can return to normal activities fairly soon after surgery with the following restrictions:
- Avoid getting your heart rate up for the first 2 weeks after surgery. This mainly refers to exercise. No cardio! Gentle walking is fine and encouraged.
- No submerging in water for the first 4 weeks after surgery. This includes bathtub, hot tub, pool but you can shower 2 days after surgery.
- No exercise using your upper body for the first 6 weeks after surgery. This includes exercises that use your pectoralis muscles such as yoga, pushups, bench press and Pilates as well as lifting heavy objects.
CALL US
TEXT US
Frequently asked questions about breast lift procedures
