How mastopexy works for you
Over time, the shape and firmness of a woman’s breasts inevitably change. Skin loses its elasticity from aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy and nursing and can cause breasts to sag. The dramatic weight loss after bariatric surgery can also cause breasts to lose their shape.
What is a mastopexy?
Mastopexy, or a breast lift, is an attractive option if you want to restore lift and shape to breasts. The procedure can be performed on breasts of any size — but women with smaller breasts often see better, longer-lasting results.
Though mastopexy does not usually interfere with breastfeeding, you are considered a more ideal candidate if you do not plan to become pregnant. Pregnancy tends to stretch breast tissue.
How mastopexy works
This surgery raises and firms breasts and is usually performed under general anesthesia. Reshaping of the breast is accomplished by removing extra skin while keeping most breast tissue intact. This process also includes tightening nearby tissue and raising the nipple and surrounding areola.
Techniques vary, and the chosen approach depends on your personal size, shape and droop; your skin characteristics (elasticity, amount, etc.); and size and position of your areola.
What are the different types of mastopexy?
The three primary types of mastopexy surgery are:
- Crescent lift. Intended to remedy minimal sagging. A crescent-shaped slice of skin above the areola is removed.
- Donut lift. Recommended for moderate sagging and smaller breasts. A circular incision is made around the areola, followed by extracting skin from the donut-shaped area. This procedure is known for complementing breast augmentations and is useful in decreasing the size of the areola.
- Full mastopexy. The most invasive procedure with the most extreme results. The full mastopexy is recommended for excessive sagging and is commonly paired with breast reductions. This lift banishes significant skin portions and involves three incisions that resemble an anchor-like shape: 1.) around the areola, 2.) a vertical line from below the nipple and 3.) down the length of the breast and along the bottom breast crease.
What to expect from mastopexy surgery
You will experience bruising and swelling for about one week after surgery. Expect some discomfort and minimal pain during this time. Swelling will cause numbness in your nipples and surrounding skin, but typically fades within a month and a half.
You will wear an elastic bandage or surgical bra for a few days before transitioning to a soft support bra, worn 24/7, for up to four weeks.
Light activities may be resumed after a few days and you may be permitted to return to work as early as one week after the surgery. Strenuous activity should be avoided for about one month.
The long-term side effect of mastopexy is noticeable scarring that gradually fades but never vanishes. Our surgeons locate incisions in areas that may be covered by bathing suits and shirts of any neckline type.
Risks of mastopexy surgery
Risks commonly associated with surgical procedures – infection, bleeding and loss of sensation – are not common but are possible side effects of mastopexy. Having your mastopexy performed by an experienced reconstructive surgeon, familiar with the unique needs of the weight loss surgery patient, will reduce your risks considerably.
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