Here at Modern Surgical Arts, we understand there are various reasons you may need a breast lift, such as weight fluctuations or gravity. Ligaments stretch and allow the breasts to sag over time; this is natural for everyone as they age. The skin of the breasts can stretch and lose its elasticity due to fluctuations in weight. Pregnancy is also a major reason – during pregnancy, the breasts get heavier and fuller. As such, the ligaments in the breasts may stretch. In some cases, genetics play a part in causing the breasts to deviate from their desired position too soon in an individual’s life.
While this effective procedure has provided many individuals with a solution to their breast concerns, our first priority here at Modern Surgical Arts is your health. We will ensure that any procedure you undertake is right for you and that you have all the information to make the best choice. Read on to learn more about breast lifts, or book a consultation with us right away.
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What is a Breast Lift?
The medical term for breast lift is mastopexy. A mastopexy is a procedure done to reduce sagging and raise the nipples and areolas to a higher position. This gives a natural and youthful look to the breasts.
Am I A Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?
Modern Surgical Arts will always have your best interests at heart for any procedure. Our professional and experienced surgeons will extensively analyze your medical history during a consultation. It will also involve an examination, a discussion of the extent of your concerns, and a realistic impression of the outcome expected from the procedure.
A pencil test is one way to determine if a breast lift is the procedure for you. Begin by tucking a pencil as high as possible in the breast fold. If it holds, then a breast lift is likely not needed. If significant tissue falls below the breast crease or your nipples point downward, then you may benefit from a breast lift.
Additionally, you may be a good candidate if:
- Your breasts are fully developed.
- You are generally in good health.
- You are a non-smoker.
- Your weight is stable.
What are the Risks of a Breast Lift?
All surgical procedures have some associated risks, but these risks can be mitigated with preparation and information. Modern Surgical Arts will ensure all precautions are taken to provide you the best healthcare. During your consultation, we will also educate you about common risks associated with surgical procedures. We’ll discuss these risks and examine your medical history to advise you accordingly.
Some of the more specific risks of breast lift include:
- Breastfeeding difficulties: After the procedure, you will still be able to breastfeed, but you may experience challenges with the amount of milk production and nipple sensitivity. Certain incisions can mitigate these risks.
- Loss of the nipples or areolae: This is a very rare risk, typically because insufficient blood flow to the nipple was restored after surgery. Therefore, the tissue is damaged, causing a partial or total loss.
- Asymmetry of size and shape: This may be visible after the healing process, as one breast may heal differently from the other.
- Change in sensation: Some numbness can be permanent. Total sensation gradually returns as the breasts heal, and, in most cases, erotic sensation is not affected.
- Scarring: Scarring is the most permanent risk. However, these scars will fade over time, usually within two years. Poor healing can also make scars more visible. Your skincare regime can improve your risk of visible scarring.
Our professional and experienced team will manage risks throughout your surgical journey. It’s important you’re in the best health so you can make a speedy recovery. During your consultation, let us know your concerns, and we’ll address them accordingly.
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How to Prepare for a Breast Lift
A baseline mammogram is required before your procedure. The mammogram will aid our expert team in seeing the formation of breast tissue. It’s essential to stop smoking for any procedure such as this; smoking decreases blood flow to the skin and, as a result, slows down the healing process. Stop smoking as early as possible before your surgery date.
Certain medications should also be avoided, such as anti-inflammatory drugs. These can cause increased bleeding and prevent a speedy recovery. Review your prescriptions with your regular physician before making any changes.
Maintain a healthy weight during this process; overweight or underweight individuals may have increased risks associated with this procedure. You will also need to arrange for transportation and assistance around the house during your initial recovery.
What Does a Breast Lift Entail?
There are four types of breast lift techniques. You can discuss these types with your surgeon to see which is best for you. Let us know what your issues and goals are so that we can recommend the best procedure accordingly.
Periareolar Incision
Peri-areolar refers to the incision made around the outer edge of the areola. This procedure results in minimal scarring and is recommended for patients with a small amount of sagging.
Vertical Incision
The vertical breast lift involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision made downward from the bottom of the circular incision. This technique is sometimes referred to as the ‘lollipop lift’ and is recommended for moderate sagging.
Crescent Incision
The crescent breast life refers to a single incision made along the top edge of the areola. This procedure reduces minimal sagging and results in almost invisible scarring.
Anchor Incision
Anchor incisions are recommended to reduce moderate to extensive sagging. The procedure consists of a circular incision around the areola, a vertical incision downward from the circle, and another incision horizontally along the bottom of the breast.
Breast Augmentation with Lift
You may want to consider a breast lift, as opposed to breast augmentation, if you have sagging or drooping. This service can be paired with breast augmentation, which we offer here at Modern Surgical Arts of Denver. Note, though, that a breast lift doesn’t cater to size but rather position. That is, the breast lift will not make your breasts larger or smaller, while augmentation exclusively increases size. These procedures are often paired together for best results.
What to Expect After a Breast Lift
After the procedure, your breasts will be covered with gauze. Swelling and bruising will last for a couple of weeks. As the pain medication used during surgery subsides, there will be pain and soreness at the incision sites; these effects will gradually reduce throughout the healing process. Our medical staff is always available, and you’ll be given a 24/7 emergency contact number. Please report to us if you experience any complications.
Schedule a Consultation
Schedule a consultation with our team to learn more about the breast lift and begin your journey toward better confidence.