BREAST LIFT PROCEDURE

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is typically performed under general anesthesia and can last between two and three hours. Breast augmentation may be used in conjunction with a breast lift to improve shape and restore volume.

There are several different techniques that can be used, depending on the amount of correction desired. If your breasts require minimal correction, the concentration or peri-areola technique may be an option for you. With this technique, donut shaped incisions are made around the areola border.

The vertical incision technique is generally performed when when a more moderate lift is necessary. It begins similarly to the concentration technique; except that additional incisions are made that come down from both sides of the incisions around the areola border and end at the breast crease.

In some cases, where a larger degree of correction is necessary, the anchor or keyhole incision may be used. In this technique, the incision may be used. In this technique, the incision roughly resemble an old-fashioned keyhole, circling around the areola, down the breast and across the breast crease.

With each of these techniques, once the incisions have been made excess breast tissue, skin, and fat is removed. The nipples are moved to their new higher locations, and the skin is tightened to give a new shape to your breasts. The incisions are closed using very fine stitches and then taped to help reduce scarring. You will also be fitted with a support bra to help you heal and make you feel more comfortable.

BREAST LIFT PREPARATION

During your consultation, you should be very open: provide all your medical history and list all of the medications, vitamins, and herbs you are taking (even if you don't think they're important). Every woman has a unique perspective on what may be the best shape for her breasts, and your goals will affect the way your breasts lift is performed. It is important to discuss your desires and listen closely so that you can set realistic expectations.

Here are some tips that may help you reduce scarring, shorten your recovery time, and decrease your changes of complications:

• Discontinue using Aspirin or Ibuprofen (these medications act as blood thinners and could cause problems with blood clotting).
• Stop smoking for at least two weeks before your breast lift as nicotine can impair circulation and healing.
• Don't drink alcohol in excess for at least two weeks before your breast lift, and one week after surgery.
• Drink lots of water in the days leading up to your breast lift.

To make your recovery easier and more comfortable, be sure to:

• Arrange for someone to take you home and take care of you for at least the first day.
• Fill your prescriptions and have them within easy reach of where you will be resting.
• Place plenty of pillows and a bed wedge nearby so that you can keep your back elevated.
• Have several loose fitting, button-down blouses ready to wear in your new breast size.
• You will also want to avoid raising your arms above above shoulder level during the first few days after surgery.

BREAST LIFT POST-PROCEDURE

You should expect some bruising, swelling, and pain for the first week or two. Stitches will come out or be absorbed on their own between a week to ten days. Swelling may linger for as long as one to two months. Pain medication will be prescribed to control any discomfort, however, if you begin to have sever pain, contact us immediately.

You will also notice that your breast appear unnatural for the first few days after surgery, with much of your breast mound high on your chest or above your nipples. This is common, due to the tightness of your chest muscles. It may take several weeks to months for your tissues to relax and for the implants to assume their long-term position. To help in this process, you may be instructed to do some massaging exercises or wear an elastic band. Make sure you follow instructions carefully to assure the best possible result.

The recovery process is different for everyone, but within a day of your breast lift you should be up and walking around. You may shower on the second or third day following surgery. After a few days sutures and bandages, if applied, will be removed. You should plan on being out of work and away from your usual activities for the first week. for the next two or three weeks your breasts may be very sensitive and strenuous physical activities should be limited. You will need to wear a support bra for about four weeks. Following this period, you may gradually return to activities such as lifting, exercise, and sex.

While there will be permanent scars, they will be well hidden when you're wearing clothing, even when you're wearing a swimsuit. The scars are usually small and become difficult to see as they heal over time. The appearance of your breasts will improve over a period of several months and you should be able to keep results that you will love for a very long time.