You might consider a breast lift if you are interested in restoring a youthful contour to your breasts. While a breast lift can be performed at any age, it is recommended that this cosmetic surgery procedure be undertaken only when breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast-feeding can have a significant effect on the size and shape of your breasts.
If you have lost considerable volume in your breasts, you may also want to consider having saline or cohesive gel breast implants inserted either prior to or at the time of breast lift surgery.
Women considering having a breast lift or breast reduction before having children should discuss plans to breast-feed with the surgeon.
BREAST LIFT CONSULTATION
We will carefully check the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas before surgery. If you are overweight, we may suggest that you stabilize your weight before having surgery.
BREAST LIFT PROCEDURE
There are variations to the incisions used for breast lifting. The traditional method of lifting the breast uses 3 incisions: onearound the areola, the second vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease under the breast and the thirdalong the natural curve of the breast crease. After excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. Skin that was located above the nipple pre-surgery is pulled down. Liposuction may also be used to improve the contour under the arm. Because the nipples and areolas remain attached to the breast tissue, sensation in this area is preserved most of the time, but slight numbness does occur occasionally.
BREAST LIFT SIDE EFFECTS
There are normally few complications from breast lift surgery. However, some of the possible complications include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. The breasts may not be exactly the same or nipple height may vary after surgery.
There may also be temporary bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness, dry breast skin and permanent scars.
BREAST LIFT RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Risks include the possibility of thick, wide scars, skin loss, infection, unevenly positioned nipples and permanent loss of feeling in nipples or breasts.
BREAST LIFT RECOVERY
Several days after surgery, you will be able to move about comfortably. You may be instructed to wear a support bra for a few weeks until the swelling and discolouration of your breasts diminish. Incisions will be red at first and typically stay this way for several months following surgery. You should be able to return to work within one or two weeks and resume strenuous activities after one month.
Fading of scars can take several months to a year.
DURATION OF BREAST LIFT RESULTS
gravity, pregnancy, aging and weight change may lead to new sagging. Results may last longer or be enhanced when breast implants are inserted at or prior to the procedure.