BREAST LIFT
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a common procedure performed by women in Newport Beach and Orange County to create a youthful, perkier, shapelier breast. This is an excellent option for patients who have some existing breast tissue which is sagging due to age and genetics. There is also an option to reduce the size of the areola to be more proportional to the breast. To increase firmness and size, a breast lift can be done in conjunction with a breast augmentation, including implants.
The Procedure
A Breast Lift can be performed through a variety of different methods. Appropriate incisions and techniques will be selected based on how much lift you want to achieve, along with the following factors:
- Breast size & shape
- Size & position of areolas
- Degree of breast sagging
- Skin quality & elasticity
- Amount of extra skin
There are three common incision patterns when it comes to Breast Lift procedures:
BREAST LIFT INCISION PATTERNS:
Once the incision is made, the underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to provide firmness and improved contour to the breast. In addition, the nipple and areola are re-positioned to achieve a more youthful, perky appearance. Any excess skin remaining is removed to restore elasticity. A Breast Lift procedure tightens skin using the same incisions as a breast reduction, however the procedure removes only skin and not breast tissue.
Sutures are positioned in layers deep within the breast tissue to create and provide support for the newly lifted breasts. Most of the sutures used are dissolvable, however, the sutures applied around the the areolas will need to be removed in a follow up visit.
The length and location of the scar is dependent on how much of a lift one needs. Dr. Nitta makes every effort possible to limit the length of the scar for the best visible healing.
Different Types of Breast Lifts
1. Peri-Areolar Breast Lift
2. Crescent Breast Lift
3. Vertical Breast Lift
4. Anchor Breast Lift
Recovery
Following a breast lift, the patient will be placed in a post-operative bra. In most cases, a surgical drain is not necessary, however in rare instances it may be administered. On the second day after surgery, if patients do not have a drain, they can remove the post-operative bra and gauze to take a shower. Incisions will be dressed with steristrips, which will need to remain in place. The first post-operative visit will occur on the third day following surgery. At this time, steristrips will be removed from the incisions. If a drain was used, it will be removed at this time as well. Sutures are removed one week after surgery.
Patients should expect to experience some pain during the first 48 hours of recovery. Following these first two days, pain should subside and be replaced by just feeling sore. The post-op bra must be worn 24/7 throughout the recovery period, with limited activity for the first 10 days. On day 11, driving and low-impact cardio can be resumed. Within the first month, patients need to stay away from any heavy lifting or activities requiring upper body strength. Activities like tennis, kickboxing, yoga or swimming will need to be put on hold for 6 weeks.
During your consultation, Dr. Nitta will help you ascertain which procedure is best for you. Generally, peri-areolar breast lifts are recommended for middle-aged people, who don’t want to see a drastic change in the appearance of their breasts. If you just think your breasts could do with a bit of a boost, then a peri-areolar lift might be the right choice for you.
To find out more about our Breast Services, call our office at (949) 722-6644 to schedule a consultation with Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Katharine C. Nitta today!