Breast Lift Mastopexy
Breast Lift Mastopexy procedures are indicated for sagging / drooping breasts. There are varying degrees of sag (called breast ptosis) and a multitude of mastopexy options designed to correct these, spanning the full spectrum of aesthetic breast surgery. A mastopexy is done when there has been failure of the breast skin to maintain the parenchyma (content) in an aesthetic form, and hence the breast droops, and appears elongated. This may follow weight loss, pregnancy and breast feeding. The breast sags when the content descends, and the nipple complex is sited at or below the level of the breast crease. More often than not, to re-elevate the nipple complex, incisions are placed on the breast mound, which are not dissimilar to those used in a breast reduction (usually the vertical pattern, but occasionally the Wise pattern). Hence scarring on the breast mound itself is a necessary “evil” in mastopexy to accomplish the “lift” and better shape the breast content.
ANATOMY
In the mildest form of droop (so-called psuedo-ptosis or false droop) there is deflation of the breast content, along with descent of the bulk of the breast content, but the nipple complex is well sited on the breast mound, above the breast crease. In these cases, one can sometimes simply place a breast implant (in the same way as an augmentation) in the appropriate position and this may be sufficient to give the impression of a breast lift, without resorting to a formal lift. In those with more significant droop, a formal lift is indicated. This may broadly consist of one of the 3 following options:
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In those with an absolute deficiency of breast volume / content, and with sag, one can offer an augmentation mastopexy – adding an implant for the volume (usually beneath the chest muscle – dual plane placement) and doing a breast lift of the remaining tissue. The surgery can be done in one (combined lift + augment)or two stages (either lift or augment first, followed several months later by the other option), the combination of both augmentation and lift in one procedure being notoriously complex and having a fairly high revision rate, but still relatively common in practice.
LARGER BREASTS
In the somewhat large breast that has drooped, a small (vertical) breast reduction may be done with good effect. This reduces the volume, unweights the breast and better shapes the breast content around an elevated nipple complex. This is a simple mastopexy. (small breast reduction)
MAINTAINING BREAST SIZE
In those who want to retain their breast volume (i.e. happy with size in a bra – but not happy with form out of a bra!) we can sometimes offer a mastopexy (breast lift) with an auto-augmentation. This is a somewhat more complex version of the above procedure.
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In that the tissue of the lower pole is not resected, but rather “recycled”, fashioned in to a pedicled flap (tissue with its own blood supply), and then used to tuck up high on the chest wall towards the cleavage area and sutured in to place. The rest of the procedure is then done as per the usual vertical mastopexy, closing the 2 pillars over the elevated flap. I find this a useful technique in selected patients who want to retain volume, and have sufficient lower pole breast volume to augment the upper pole.
Breast Lift Before And After
Are You Ready for a More Uplifted and Comfortable You?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Skoll. Every woman’s body is unique. Dr. Paul Skoll provides tailored surgical approaches to breast lift, ensuring results that align with your individual anatomy and aesthetic goals.
A few commonly asked questions
What are the benefits of a breast lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, offers several benefits, including a more youthful and uplifted breast contour, reduced sagging and drooping, a more defined cleavage, improved breast shape and symmetry, and the ability to wear certain clothing styles more comfortably and confidently. Many patients also experience a boost in self-esteem.
What is the ideal age to consider a breast lift (mastopexy)?
While there isn’t a strict “best” age, most women consider a breast lift after their breasts have fully developed and they’ve experienced changes due to factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or the natural aging process. Many patients are in their 30s, 40s, or 50s, but the suitability of the procedure depends more on the degree of breast sagging (ptosis) and the patient’s overall health and goals than their age. Dr. Skoll can assess your individual situation and advise on the best timing for you.
What kind of scars can I expect after a breast lift?
The extent and pattern of scarring depend on the degree of sagging and the surgical technique used. Common incision patterns include around the areola (periareolar), extending vertically down from the areola to the breast crease (lollipop), or an anchor-shaped incision that includes a horizontal incision along the breast crease. Dr. Skoll will discuss the most appropriate technique for your anatomy and the expected scar placement and appearance during your consultation. We also provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help minimize scarring.
What is the typical cost of a breast lift (mastopexy) in South Africa?
The cost of a breast lift can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, the specific techniques used, anesthesia fees, facility fees, and your individual anatomy. It’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Skoll for a personalized assessment and a detailed breakdown of the costs involved. We can also discuss potential financing options during your consultation.
How long can the results of a breast lift (mastopexy) typically last?
While a breast lift can provide long-lasting improvement in breast shape and position, it’s important to understand that the effects of aging, gravity, and significant weight changes can eventually lead to some degree of breast sagging again. However, many women enjoy the results of their breast lift for 10-15 years or even longer. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results
Is it possible to lift sagging breasts without undergoing surgery?
While there are non-surgical options marketed for breast tightening, such as creams, exercises, and specialized bras, these typically offer only subtle and temporary improvements for mild sagging. For significant and lasting lift, a surgical breast lift (mastopexy) remains the most effective and predictable solution. Dr. Skoll can discuss realistic expectations for both surgical and non-surgical approaches during your consultation.
Are there any surgical alternatives to a traditional breast lift (mastopexy)?
In some cases of mild to moderate sagging where a patient also desires increased breast volume, a breast augmentation with implants can provide a degree of lift. However, this addresses volume more directly than lift. For significant sagging, a mastopexy is usually the most appropriate procedure to reshape and elevate the breast tissue. Dr. Skoll will assess your specific concerns and recommend the most suitable surgical approach.
Can I still breastfeed after a breast lift?
While most women can still breastfeed after a breast lift, there is a potential risk of reduced milk production or changes in nipple sensation depending on the surgical technique used. Dr. Skoll will discuss the potential impact on breastfeeding based on your specific anatomy and the planned surgical approach. If you plan to have more children and breastfeed in the future, it’s important to discuss this during your consultation.
Am I a good candidate for a breast lift?
Good candidates for a breast lift are typically women who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcome, are bothered by sagging breasts due to factors like aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss, and are non-smokers. The best way to determine your candidacy is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Skoll, who can assess your individual anatomy and discuss your goals.
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