Breast Lift Surgery

A breast lift is a surgical procedure that features the removal of excess skin to lift the breast and give it a more youthful, perky appearance; it can improve your look and your confidence.
As the skin becomes less flexible, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag. The best results are usually achieved in women with small, sagging breasts. It is important to understand that a breast lift by itself does not enlarge the breasts.

I. What is involved in a Breast Lift Surgery?

Breast Lift surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, in the surgeon’s office-based surgical suite, an outpatient center or hospital which may allow you return home within hours of the operation (normally one to five hours depending on the lift technique used). It is necessary however, that you have someone take you home after the procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Normally, breast lifts are performed under general anesthesia, which means you'll sleep through the operation. In certain occasions, the surgeon may use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you feel more relaxed during the surgery.

There are two different ways in which a breast lift procedure is performed:
1) Anchor-Shaped Incision : where an incision is made outlining the area from which breast skin will be removed and defines the new location for the areola.
2) Concentric Lift : in which circular incisions are made around the areola, and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed

II. Preparations and Precautions for a Breast Lift Surgery

During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss the changes that you would like to make to your appearance as well as your concerns in detail so your surgeon can determine the appropriate alternatives.
Prior to your breast lift, the surgeon will perform a complete health history and physical exam and provide you with specific instructions to assist you in preparing for the procedure.
Immediately following your the lift procedure, your surgeon will place you in a supportive surgical bra which you will be required to wear for several weeks. Afterwards, you will notice an immediate change in the shape of your breasts.
As with any other breast surgery, there may be some complications; for example, you can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling after surgery. This will normally fade within six weeks or so, but may take up to a year.

III. What Results can I expect after my Breast Lift?

Your breasts will be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Any discomfort you do feel can be relieved with medications prescribed by your surgeon. Please note that the loss of elasticity that caused the original sagging can recur.