Breast Lift
Over time, the breasts can become victims of gravity, age, and weight, causing them to loosen and sink. Nearly outranking breast augmentation surgery in popularity, breast lifts can give new life to the projection and profile of breasts that have lost their shape and point downward, which is often seen as a sign of age and obsolescence.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a versatile procedure that is often combined with other cosmetic breast procedures. It is most beneficial to droopy breasts with excess skin and tissue that can be removed through a breast reduction, or utilized in an augmentation. The breast lift itself brings the breast and nipple into a more upright and perky position through surgical incisions and removal of saggy tissue.
Who is a candidate for a Breast Lift?
Any woman who feels that their breasts are long and stretched might consider a breast lift to restore them to a more youthful position. Anyone considering a breast reduction might also consider a breast lift for further results. Candidates should have fully-developed breasts and consider their future plans for pregnancy, as this can disrupt the breast lift results.
What happens during a Breast Lift?
After anesthesia is administered, a predetermined incision is made. Options include:
- Around the areola.
- Around the areola and vertically to the breast crease.
- Around the areola and vertically to the breast crease, then horizontally along the breast crease.
Each of these incisions will depend on the severity of the breast droop and how much skin needs to be excised. After the incision is made, the breast is lifted to a better position and tissue is removed. Areolar skin can be removed as well if the areolae are large. An implant is also placed at this time if needed for extra projection. Sutures may be placed within the breast tissue in order to support the new breast structure and prevent further sag as time passes.
Results and Recovery
Recovery from a breast lift will require downtime, as the surgery is invasive. However, your results will be immediately visible despite swelling and will remain long-lasting if a healthy, stable weight is maintained. Aging and gravity will still take a toll on your new breasts over time, but a breast lift will rewind years of sagging and loss of firmness.
A compression garment might be given in order to support the new, younger-looking breasts and to aid in healing and blood flow. Any pain can be managed with prescribed medication, and intense movement and activity should be limited during the healing process. You may be given instructions by your plastic surgeon in Biloxi to care for any drains that might be placed to collect fluid buildup near the incision sites. Be sure to follow any care instructions in order to have best results after your breast lift.
If you are unhappy with the shape and position of your breasts, consider a breast lift and contact our office for a consultation with Dr. Richardson.