| Breast Lift (MASTOPEXY) |
|
With age, skin loses its elasticity. In women, this plays a role in loss of the youthful
appearance of breasts. Many factors such as pregnancy, breast feeding, weight gain and loss
also play a role. Sagging breasts (ptosis) may be corrected by breast lift (mastopexy).
Mastopexy may be combined with breast augmentation to improve the size or lost volume or may
also be combined with breast reduction when the problem is excess volume or size. At the same
time, nipple areolar complex can be reduced for a more youthful appearance. In cases of
asymmetrical breasts, mastopexy can be performed to correct such problem. In sum, Mastopexy
is performed to achieve higher breasts (lifted) with tighter breast envelope as well as
improved breast symmetry, shape.
|
| Types of Mastopexy |
There are generally four types of breast lifts. Depending on the degree of ptosis which are
graded as one to four, different surgical techniques are utilized.
- Areolar Lift / Crescent Lift
- Peri-areolar Lift / Doughnut Lift
- Vertical Lift
- Inverted-T Lift
|
| Who is a Candidate? |
|
Women who have sagging breasts who desire improved shape are the typical candidates. Patients
who are in good health must be cleared to be without underlying breast disease. The specific
risks and suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the
time of consultation with your cosmetic surgeon. It is important to understand the extent of
the scar needed to achieve the appropriate lift.
|
| Procedure Description |
|
Mastopexy operations are usually performed in an outpatient surgical center under general
anesthesia in combination with local anesthesia. The areolar lift, also known as the Crescent
lift, is a small a partial lift designed for minimally sagging (ptotic) breast. The incision is
very small, generally encompassing the upper third of the areolar complex. The Peri-areolar
lift, also known as doughnut lift, involves an incision around the entire areolar complex.
The vertical lift, involves an incision around the entire areolar complex as well as an incision
along the midline of the breast below the areolar complex. The inverted-T is the more
comprehensive lift designed for the more severe ptotic breasts. In addition to the vertical
incision, an incision along the inferior/ lower border of the breast is made. In some cases a
small drain may be placed especially if the procedure is combined with a reduction. No matter
which procedure is used, the main objective is to bring the nipple, areola, and the breast
tissue to a more upright position.
|
| Recovery-Recuperation and Healing |
|
Mastopexy is generally associated with minimal discomfort as well as fast and easy recovery.
Postoperative discomfort is controlled with oral medications. A soft bra is worn for at least
several days (7-14) postoperatively. Post operative swelling/edema usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
The patient may be seen the next day and again in 1 to 2 weeks for suture removal. Mild activity
may be started within one week after surgery, and full activity may resume in 4 to 6 weeks.
Major complications are extremely rare.
|
