Breast Lift Basics

As women begin to age, skin elasticity diminishes and their breasts start to lose their shape and become somewhat droopy. A breast lift is a surgical procedure that is able to restore firmness in addition to shaping the breasts. In this article, we will provide a general overview of this procedure to help others better understand this exciting treatment option.

This procedure is an effective means for reshaping and lifting saggy breasts for patients of all sizes. Sometimes smaller chests sizes are able to retain their results longer than that of patients who have larger ones. This is due to the weight factor.

Those planning to have children down the road may decide to postpone their surgery until after the pregnancy and feeding has completed. Pregnancy is able to stretch the skin and tissues resulting in a reduced volume. Both factors are able to counter the benefits of the procedure.

The improvement of shape is sometimes able to improve self confidence and change the way in which others perceive you. However, it is important to note that the treatment does not completely change who you are and may not meet any unrealistic expectations the patient may have.

The procedure is performed under both local anesthesia or general anesthesia, in an office surgical suite or hospital. Operation time tends to last between two and three hours. Lift amount will generally determine the length and number of incisions. The more the lift, the more likely the patient will require more extensive incisions.

A popular technique for this operation involves three incisions forming a sort of anchor shape:

• The initial incision is made around the areola, and extends above it, creating a new position for the nipple.
• The next incision is cut vertically from the nipple down through the bottom on the breast itself.
• The final incision runs along the underside.

The creation of these incisions results in flaps where the excess skin is able to be removed.

Skin is also able to be removed when the areola and nipple are relocated to a higher position. The nipple is typically positioned in a way so that it is even with the lower crease between the chest and breast. Skin that was located above the nipple is brought down and around the nipple and secured.

If you are interested in learning more about your available options pertaining to this procedure, the best place to start is by contacting a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she will be best able to evaluate your specific circumstances and determine a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs and desires.