Besides the ubiquitous problem of women regarding the size of their breasts, another concern springs from its appearance and shape. Gravity, pregnancy and aging can take their toll on the breasts.

The appearance of the breasts may no longer be as upright as it used to be and the round outline begins to take the form of a tear drop hanging from the chest wall. But women need not cry over this natural consequence because there’s breast lift surgery to put it back into its usual shape.

What Is Breast Lift Surgery?

Breast lift, otherwise known as mastopexy, is a type of cosmetic surgery aiming to enhance the shape of a person’s breasts. It may involve lifting the breast tissues, removal of excess skin and repositioning the nipple and the dark skin surrounding it, called areola. It can be performed in conjunction with breast enlargement using implants to improve the firmness and size of the breasts.

Am I A Candidate?

The indications of breast lift are not limited to those with pendulous and droopy breasts which lost its volume and firmness due to pregnancy or aging. It can be also done to reduce the size of the areola, as well as revise nipples and areolas that pointing downwards.

Women with smaller breasts tend to have more lasting results because larger breasts pull down the changes made during a breast lift.

Pregnant and lactating mothers, and women who plan on future pregnancies will have to postpone the surgery because the stretching caused by the aforementioned conditions will defeat the purpose of the operation.

Like in all surgeries, good health, stable emotional status and realistic expectations make one a good candidate for a breast lift surgery.

Risks and Limitations

Now that you have decided that breast lift is for you, it’s important to consider the risks and limitations that come along with it.

Scarring, bleeding, infection and anaesthesia-related complications are possible. In some cases, there could be a loss of sensation in the nipple area. The breasts may result to asymmetry and the nipple level could vary. These risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced surgeon and by following the instructions properly.

The procedure is limited to raising the nipple and tightening the skin; hence the upper half of the breasts may still appear hollow. However, this can be corrected by performing breast augmentation along with the lift.

Preparations

Besides a review of your medical history and a physical examination of your breasts, your surgeon may request for a baseline mammogram especially if you or any of your family had a history of breast tumor.

If you are a smoker, you will be asked to refrain from it months prior to the surgery. Inform your plastic surgeon regarding any medications you are taking, to avoid complications during and after the procedure.

It is important to achieve a stabilized weight to maximize the results of the breast lift surgery.

How It Is Done

A general anaesthetic is often administered, keeping you asleep during the entire process. When local anaesthesia is performed, a sedative will be injected intravenously.

Commonly, incisions are done around the areola, then vertically downwards towards the crease underneath the breasts. This will be continued horizontally following the natural curvature of the breast crease.

The excess skin will be removed and the nipple and areola will be positioned higher. The skin that was previously above the areola will be brought down to reshape the breast. To prevent the loss of sensation and the ability to breastfeed, the underlying tissues of the nipple and areola will be left intact and attached to its overlying structures.

Small drain tubes may be left to prevent the accumulation of fluid in the operative site. Gauze and dressings will be covered with an elastic bandage or surgical bra.

Breast lifting is usually done on an outpatient basis unless your plastic surgeon has advised that you will have to be observed within the hospital overnight. Make sure to enlist the help of someone who can assist you on your way home.

Post Surgery

The surgical drains will be scheduled for removal a few days after the plastic surgery. During this time, the dressing will be changed. You must avoid strenuous activities the first two weeks to avoid bleeding and marked swelling. Sleep on your back to avoid pressure to the breasts.

Discolorations, swelling, minimal bleeding and discomfort can be made tolerable with the help of medications which your plastic surgeon will prescribe. The lessened sensation in your nipples should return to normal in weeks, months, or sometimes more than a year after.

You may resume work after a week or two, granting that your work does not involve straining, bending and lifting. Light activities may be allowed during this period.

The results are lasting, as long as your weight is maintained. Eventually, aging and gravity will lessen the dramatic results of the lifting done but a second breast lift procedure may be considered as an option.

Cost

Individual factors may come into play but on the average, it could range from $3500 to $6000. If done with other cosmetic surgery procedures such as breast enlargement, the price could go higher.

Due to the aesthetic nature of the procedure, it is not covered by your health insurance. Financing options however, may be offered. Inquire from your surgeon regarding the payment schemes available,