Mastopexy or breast lift surgery is intended to correct breast sagging and restore the breasts to a more youthful position. In mastopexy, plastic surgeons generally aim to produce the most attractive results with the shortest residual scar.
Who can benefit from a breast lift?
The goals of breast lift surgery are slightly different than those of breast augmentation, mainly because the breast lift cannot enhance or restore breast fullness.
Those who exhibit the following conditions may benefit from breast lift surgery:
- Excess breast sagging
- Lack of breast firmness
- Lack of skin elasticity
- Nipple ptosis
How is a breast lift performed?
To correct sagging and reposition the nipple, there are a variety of surgical techniques that can be utilized. All breast lift surgeries require an incision around the nipple, either partial or circumferential. A vertical incision is also necessary in many cases, especially when the nipple needs to be elevated. After the incisions, a certain amount of skin and glandular tissue is removed and sutured to produce a more appealing breast position and shape.
After breast lift surgery
After the mastopexy, the incisions and sutures will be covered with gauze or tape. A special bra is provided that must be worn during the recovery period. It is normal to experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort during this time, but pain is usually well controlled by medication.
The scars that result from breast lift surgery are noticeable at first, but flatten out and fade over time. Nonetheless, they remain permanent and that is something patients should consider before surgery. There are other possible risks such as loss of nipple sensation. Dr. Pfeifer can discuss the risks, benefits, and cost of breast lift surgery in more specific terms during your consultation.
To learn more about how breast lift surgery can restore a more youthful breast contour and shape, contact one of the New York plastic surgery offices of Tracy Pfeifer MD, on Park Avenue, in Great Neck, or in the Hamptons.
