An inevitable side effect of the aging process is the loss of tone and elasticity in the skin as well as the soft tissues. Other changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy and after breastfeeding, may cause the breasts to droop.

Size isn’t the only factor that contributes to beautiful breasts. Shape, perkiness, and symmetry are also factors. Large sagging breasts can make a woman appear older than she actually is.

A breast lift procedure is helpful in restoring a perkier, firmer, and more youthful appearance to your drooping breasts. The surgery allows you to have an attractive feminine shape and feel happier and more confident wearing swimsuits and other clothing.

Here are some of the common reasons why women choose to get a breast lift surgery:

  • To restore breast shape after pregnancy/breastfeeding
  • To counter the effects of aging or gravity, which tend to pull the breasts in the downward direction
  • To enhance breast shape after extreme weight loss (a cause of sagging breasts)

The Breast Lift Procedure

Mastopexy is helpful in elevating the position of the nipples and areolae, taking them higher up on the chest wall. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis. This means that you are not required to stay overnight at the hospital facility. The total time taken for completing the procedure is approximately three hours, and it involves the administration of general anesthesia.

In a breast lift procedure, your plastic surgeon will strategically place the surgical incisions so as to ensure that they are minimally visible. One incision option is the periareolar incision, which is made around your areola. The color difference between the areolar skin and the breast skin works well to conceal this incision.

The second type of incision involves a circle around the areola and a vertical line that extends downward from the base of the areola to the breast fold. The third incision option is similar to this but also includes a curved horizontal line across the breast fold, offering even more access for the surgeon.

Once the incisions have been made, the plastic surgeon works to remove the excess skin and lifts the breast tissue higher up to a more suitable location. This lends your breasts a perkier and firmer appearance. Finally, the incisions are closed using stitches.

Your Recovery Process

The bandages and drains (if any have been placed) will be removed by your surgeon during a follow-up visit. You will visit him either the first or the second day following your surgery. Your surgeon will also examine blood supply to your breasts and the color of your nipples.

You can expect slight discomfort for a couple of days after the surgery. Upon the doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to wear a special bra so as to get adequate support during the recovery time. Pain medication may be prescribed by your surgeon for a week after the surgery.

Your doctor will likely remove all the stitches within two to three weeks of the surgery. You will notice a continued improvement in the shape of your breasts with the passage of time.

Scheduling a Consultation

Dr. Gregory Park, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon serving the San Diego area, will explain more about the breast lift process during a consultation. Schedule your consultation by contacting our office today.