Lift/ Mastopexy with or without reduction
Many women struggle with low-hanging, droopy or asymmetrical breasts as a result of aging, pregnancy, breast feeding, gravity or weight loss. A breast lift, or mastopexy, can help to rejuvenate the breasts be reducing excess skin as well as lifting and tightening the underlying supportive tissues. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of an overly stretched areola (the skin surrounding the nipple), and reposition down-turned nipples. Mastopexy does not change breast size and volume, nor does it restore fullness in the upper pole of the breast. However, it can be combined with breast implants and/or micro fat grafting if you desire fuller, more rounded breasts.
What it Is
A mastopexy, or “breast lift,” is a procedure which involves the surgical revision and re-shaping of the breasts in order to restore a more youthful “lifted” position, appearance, and shape. Dr. Born employs only the most advanced breast lift techniques, taking into account a patient’s breast size and shape, skin quality, amount of loose or excess skin as well as the position and size of the nipples and areolas, to ensure that the result has a very natural look and feel. For patients who require only a minimal lift, a “donut” or circular incision made around the areola can be effective. For patients who require a moderate lift, a “lollipop” incision is made around the nipple and down the center of the breast to the breast crease. A full mastopexy for a maximum lift will employ an “anchor” or half-moon incision in addition to the “lollipop” incision. After making the appropriate incision, Dr. Born will lift and reshape the underlying tissues, using deep sutures to ensure maximum support of the breasts from within. The nipple will be positioned higher on the breast, and, in some cases, Dr. Born can reduce the areola size if it is overly large or stretched. Excess skin on the breast is trimmed and firmness is restored to the breasts. Performed on its own, mastopexy can reduce breast size by one full cup size; for this reason, Dr. Born often recommends that mastopexy be combined with breast implants and/ or micro fat grafting for optimal results.
Is it For Me?
Candidates for mastopexy or breast lift surgery range in age from 18-70 years of age and are in good health and fit for surgery under general anesthetic. Women who have sagging or low-hanging breasts; breast asymmetry; flat or deflated looking breasts; or nipples that point downward and/or stretched, enlarged areolas are generally good candidates for mastopexy. If you are planning to have children it is advisable to postpone mastopexy surgery as pregnancy and breast feeding can result in stretching of the skin and breast tissues.
Dr. Born has performed thousands of breast lift surgeries throughout his career and is regarded as one the most accomplished cosmetic plastic surgeons in the industry. His knowledge and expertise is matched by a personalized approach to all patients under his care. Moving forward with breast lift surgery is a monumental decision for a woman, and knowing that your surgeon is experienced, prepared, and on the same page as you is crucial. Dr. Born understands the nuances of this particular surgery and his advanced technique will ensure a beautiful, more youthful look and feel to your breasts that suits your body frame and your modern lifestyle.
What to Expect
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes somewhere between 2 to 3 hours to complete depending on the complexity of the case. After the surgery, the incisions will be held together with sutures, gauze and special surgical tape to minimize any pulling during the healing process. With proper care, visible scarring on the breasts should heal and fade over time.
It is important to remember that breast lift surgery is not for everyone. Side effects can include swelling, bruising, numbness, inflammation or infection around the incision and possible bleeding. Dr. Born will discuss all of the potential risks associated with breast augmentation in detail during your private consultation. You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of the doctor, both before and after your surgery. Our pre-operative screening process is designed to determine if patients are indeed ideal candidates for surgery. To view a complete list of complications associated with surgery performed under a general aesthetic, click here.