Breast Lift Surgery

 

 

What is Breast Lift Surgery?

Also known as mastopexy, breast lift surgery addresses sagging and uneven breasts, decreased breast volume, drooping nipples and stretched areolas - recreating a youthful shape and lift to your breasts. This procedure is very similar to Breast Reduction Surgery.

If there is too little or too much breast volume, a breast augmentation or breast lift may be recommended in addition to a lift. Every year, thousands of women undergo successful breast-lift surgery, experience no major problems and are pleased with the results.

 

The Procedure

General anesthesia is commonly used during your breast lift procedure, although local anesthesia or intravenous sedation may be desirable in some instances.

For your safety during the surgery, various monitors will be used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood. Your surgeon will follow the surgical plan discussed with you before surgery.

Different techniques for removing breast skin and reshaping the breast determine the location of the incisions and resulting scars. Your surgeon will select a technique based on your breast size and shape, areola size and position, degree of breast sagging, skin quality and elasticity and how much extra skin you have. Your surgeon can conceal some incision lines in natural breast contours, but others will be visible on the breast surface. The different incision patterns and techniques that your plastic surgeon will choose from:

• The "anchor" incision is made around the perimeter of the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease and horizontally along the breast crease and produces the most scarring. It is for women with a severe degree of sagging who will not be helped sufficiently by less invasive techniques. This incision, which is the oldest technique, is often used for a breast lift in conjunction with a breast reduction.
• The "lollipop" lift, also known as a "keyhole" incision, made around the perimeter of the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, is suitable for women with a moderate degree of sagging who will not be helped sufficiently by the periareolar technique and who do not want breast implants.
• The "donut" lift, also known as the "periareolar incision," made around the perimeter of the areola only, is suitable for women with a mild-to-moderate degree of sagging. When used by a skilled surgeon in conjunction with the placement of implants, it can produce a satisfactory result for patients with more pronounced sagging.
• The "crescent" lift, which is less commonly used, is an incision that lies just along the upper half of the areola. A crescent-shaped piece of skin is removed above that line, and the surrounding skin is reattached to the areola. This type of lift is usually done in conjunction with breast augmentation in women with minor sagging. It cannot accomplish the same degree of lifting as the other incision techniques.
• The "scarless" lift. For a select few women concerned more about volume loss than actual sagging, there are procedures to lift the appearance of the breast that are touted as scarless.

These procedures can be combined with breast augmentation to lift the breasts with minimal scarring. However, they require incisions of some sort, no matter how small or well-hidden.

Your plastic surgeon will remove excess breast skin and shift the nipple and areola to a higher position.

If your areola has become stretched, it can now be reduced in size.

Skin that was formerly located above the areola is brought down and together, beneath the breast, to reshape the breast.

Your surgeon will remove excess skin and close your incisions, tightening the skin, sewing the breast back together and placing sutures deep in the breast tissue to support the new breast position for a longer period of time.

Scars are usually hidden under the breasts, although some light scarring may be seen on top of the breast.

The nipples and areolas remain attached to underlying mounds of tissue, and this usually allows for the preservation of sensation and the ability to breast-feed.

After your procedure is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area, where you will continue to be closely monitored. Occasionally, drainage tubes may be used for a short time following surgery.

The procedure normally takes between 120 – 180 minutes.

Am I a candidate for surgery?

You are a candidate for Breast Lift Surgery:

• Pregnancy, nursing, gravity, weight gain or loss, normal aging, and heredity have taken a toll on the shape of your breasts, resulting in sagging
• If your surgeon thinks that breast implants alone are unlikely to achieve the contour you desire
• If the tissue surrounding the nipple or areola has become stretched

If you’ve become increasingly unhappy about the sagging of your breasts, you may wonder what surgery can do. Do not be surprised if your surgeon suggests combining breast augmentation with your lift; adjunct procedures may be necessary to achieve your goals.

The following are frequent reasons why you may want to consider a breast lift:

• Breasts which are pendulous but adequate in size.
• Breasts that lack substance or firmness.
• Nipples and areolas that point downward, especially if they are positioned below the breast crease.
• Breasts that appear different from each other; one breast may appear firm and well positioned while the other does not.
• Breasts which are not equal in size.
• Breasts which are relatively small.
• Breasts that are large and heavy can be lifted, but the results may not be as long-lasting as a breast lift performed on smaller breasts; the weight of larger breasts works against surgical changes.
• You are finished with childbearing and breast-feeding. If you plan to have children, you may want to postpone cosmetic breast surgery. Pregnancy may stretch the breasts and reduce their volume, compromising surgery benefits.
• If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.

Advantages of Breast Lift Surgery

• You will have improved breast shape, projection, and symmetry
• Your breasts will have a more youthful appearance.
• You will look better in and out of clothes and feel more self-confident.

Disadvantages of Breast Lift Surgery

• The effects of a breast lift might slowly diminish over time because of gravity and aging.
• A breast lift leaves scars that will be hidden in a bra or swimsuit.
• Subsequent pregnancy may compromise your surgical results.

Preparation for Surgery

Prior To Your Arrival

Before traveling to Cyprus, as part of your surgery preparation you will complete a detailed specific questionnaire and will submit a recent Chest X-Ray and photographic images of the problem areas which you wish to have treated.

Initial Consultation: Once the images have been received by us, we will schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon, via Skype or telephone. This will allow you to ask any questions regarding the procedure and will also allow your chosen surgeon to assess your condition and determine your eligibility for your chosen procedure. 

During your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic goals. Your chosen surgeon will evaluate you as a candidate for breast lift and clarify what a breast lift procedure can do for you. Understanding your goals and medical condition, both alternative and additional treatment options may be considered. You should be prepared to discuss your complete medical history. This will include information about:

• Previous surgeries
• Past and present medical conditions
• Allergies and current medications
• Medical treatments you have received
• Medications you currently take
• Family history of breast cancer
• Current mammogram results

If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, be sure to tell your plastic surgeon. The surgeon may recommend that you stabilize your weight before undergoing surgery.

If you think that you may want to become pregnant in the future, discuss this with your surgeon. Pregnancy can alter breast size in an unpredictable way and could affect the long-term results of your surgery.

Your treatment plan

Based on your goals, physical characteristics, and the surgeon’s training and experience, your surgeon will share recommendations and information with you, at this point including:

• An approach to your surgery, including the type of procedure or combination of procedures.
• The outcomes that you can anticipate.
• Associated risks and complications.
• Options for anesthesia.
• What is needed to prepare for the surgery.
• What you can expect to experience after surgery.
• Show before-and-after photos of cases that are similar to yours and answer any questions.

In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:

• Stop smoking at least six weeks before undergoing surgery to better promote healing.
• Avoid taking aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs that can increase bleeding.
• Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after surgery for safe recovery.
• Keep alcohol consumption at less than two to three drinks per week.

Ten days prior to your arrival in Cyprus, you will receive all the necessary pre operative instructions, to prepare yourself both physically and mentally for your chosen cosmetic procedure.

Before your departure to come to Cyprus your records will be reviewed thoroughly by our surgeon. This includes Chest X-ray and a complete medical and surgical history.

Getting your house ready before your surgery

It is also important to get your house ready for after you come home from the hospital. At first it will be harder for you to move around, so arrange your furniture and household items ahead of time to make it easier for you during your rehabilitation.

Before surgery, stock your refrigerator with high-protein, low-sodium foods, including premade meals, fresh fruits and vegetables and lots of caffeine-free beverages and water. Avoid food and drink containing salt during your recovery.

As you heal, your arms will have a limited range of motion, so store all the supplies you'll need during recovery where they're easily accessible (counter level, not in overhead or very low cabinets).

Stockpile movies or prerecorded programs, and novels and magazines. If possible, have a speakerphone by your bed and a remote control for the TV.

Remove all your throw rugs or anything on the floor that may cause you to trip.

Move phone and electrical cords close to the walls.

Move necessary personal items you need to reach to shelves and tables that are above your waist level.

Preparation for the hospital

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you pack and prepare for the hospital and recuperation:

Clothing
Getting dressed in the morning helps you feel better, so be sure to bring some comfortable clothing. Decide what you will wear for the first few days; pick items that open in front. Wear slip-on shoes so you don't have to bend:

• Loose shorts or pants
• Loose open front tops or T-shirts
• Underwear and socks
• Short robe or pajamas
• Toiletries

Upon Arrival

After traveling to Cyprus, a new set of blood tests, E.C.G and chest X-ray will be taken as well as an in person physical examination. To help detect and track any changes in your breast tissue, your plastic surgeon may also recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery.

The surgeon and anesthetist will meet with you and go through your medical and surgical plan.

During this consultation, your surgeon will discuss your surgical procedure and answer any further questions. Your plastic surgeon will proceed to examine measure and photograph your breasts for your medical record. Your surgeon will also consider and further discuss:

• The current size and shape of your breasts.
• The breast size and shape that you desire.
• The quality and quantity of your breast tissue.
• The quality of your skin.
• The placement of your nipples and areolas.

Day before surgery

Your doctor or nurse will give you more instructions based on the type of prep.

You should not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before your surgery.

 

Morning of surgery

Bring all your medicines, if any in their original containers with you to the hospital.

You will meet with the anesthesiologist. This doctor will talk to you about general anesthesia. This is a controlled sleep while the surgery is being done so you will not feel any pain or remember the surgery. You will have an IV or intravenous line put in to give you fluid and medicine during your surgery.

Your plastic surgeon shall consult with you once again and shall make any markings he needs on your chest, indicating the incision marks for the proposed procedure.

Recovery after surgery

When you wake up after your surgery, you will be in the recovery room. You will stay there until you are awake and your pain is under control. Most patients return to their room after a couple of hours.

You will receive oxygen through a thin tube called a nasal cannula that rests below your nose. A nurse will be monitoring your body temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.

After your breast lift procedure, you shall be placed in a surgical dressing that can include a support bra or garment.

You will have some redness and swelling after the surgery. As the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some pain. Typically, the most pain is experienced within the first 48 hours after breast lift surgery. Your pain level will decrease each day and may be effectively treated with various pain medications.

Your breasts may feel tight and sensitive to the touch and your skin may feel warm or itchy. You may also experience difficulty raising your arms. Some discoloration and swelling will occur initially, but this will disappear quickly. Most residual swelling will resolve within a month.

Hospital discharge and home instructions

Your diet is slowly increased from ice chips to liquids to solid foods as your intestines start functioning.

Before leaving the hospital, our surgeon and staff will help you adjust to recovery in every way possible. You will receive specific instructions and precautions from your surgeon and nursing staff and they will show you safe techniques of simple activities like getting in and out of bed, bathing, going to the bathroom, managing steps at home and getting in and out of a car.

You will be able to leave the hospital when you are:

• Able to eat a regular diet and drink fluids
• Passing gas or you have had a bowel movement
• Passing urine
• Not having a fever or other signs of infection
• Walk for short distances

Most people are able to go home on the day after their surgery.

Recovery time after the procedure and the length of your hospital stay depend on your overall health and the type of procedure performed.

Life After Surgery

These guidelines give you an overview of what you may expect as part of your care after you leave the hospital. Be sure to follow your doctor’s discharge instructions if they are different from what is listed here. This will include information about wearing compression garments, care of your drains, taking an antibiotic if prescribed and the level and type of activity that is safe. Your surgeon will also provide detailed instructions about the normal symptoms you will experience and any potential signs of complications. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.

For two to five days, you may feel stiff and sore in your chest region.

You shall be instructed to wear a support bra.

You will be permitted to shower seven days after surgery. Avoid hot showers, hot tubs and saunas for two to three weeks.

Generally, stitches will be removed in stages over a period of approximately three weeks, beginning about one week after surgery.

You may be able to return to work 2 weeks postoperatively, depending on the nature of your job.

Rest and sleep on your back continuously in an inclined position (25-to 45-degree angle) for the initial postoperative days or while significant swelling remains. You can achieve elevation with wedge pillows with an incline design or by sleeping in a recliner chair.

You may notice that you feel less sensation in the nipple and areola areas. This is usually temporary; however, it may take weeks, months or even more than a year before sensation returns to normal.

Your breasts may require some time to assume a more natural shape.

Incisions will initially be red or pink. They will remain this way for many months following surgery.

Your Activity                                                                                                                                                        

It is fairly common to feel weak and tired immediately after discharge from the hospital. The body needs time to recover from the stress of surgery. You should avoid excessive physical activity for at least the first two weeks following surgery. After that, be extremely gentle with your breasts for at least the next month. In many instances, you can resume most of your normal activities, including some form of mild exercise, after several weeks.

Walking is permitted and encouraged beginning the same day of surgery. At home, start short, daily walks and gradually increase the distance you walk.

Going up and down stairs is permitted. Initially, have someone assist you.

Ensure you have a dependable support team for the full recovery period .This is most critical to your recovery. If you have children less than five years of age, you must have someone to take care of them for a week.

You must not lift, drive or do laundry and cleaning for the first two weeks. This may be increased gradually after 2 weeks. If lifting an object causes discomfort, you should discontinue the activity.

Driving is not permitted for 2 weeks after surgery or your first follow-up visit with your surgeon. If you are taking prescription pain medications or narcotics, DO NOT DRIVE.

Avoid sexual activity for a minimum of one or two weeks, but your plastic surgeon may advise you to wait longer. Sexual intercourse may be resumed as your comfort level permits after that.

People with sedentary jobs have returned to work as early as 2 weeks postoperatively. A physically demanding job may require 4 weeks before returning to work. This may be determined by you and your employer. Some people have residual fatigue several weeks after surgery.

It is common to feel a lump at the sites of the operation. This lump is a combination of normal fluid and scar tissue forming in this area. It usually goes away slowly over the first month or two following surgery.

Your bowel habits

You may have different bowel habits after your surgery. Loose stools are common for the first week or two after surgery. If you have watery diarrhea, call your surgeon. This may be a sign of a bowel infection. Severe constipation should be avoided. See the section below on medicines for constipation.

Your diet

There are generally no dietary restrictions following cosmetic surgery. Avoid foods that cause diarrhea or digestive discomfort. You will eventually be able to resume your regular diet. A dietary supplement or drink can be used.

Medications

Your medicines: Take the medicines you were taking before surgery, unless your surgeon has made a change.

• For pain

Your surgeon will order a prescription pain medicine for you after surgery. As your pain lessens, over the counter pain medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used. They can also be used instead of your prescription for mild pain.

• For constipation

Prescription pain medicines can cause constipation. Your doctor may order a stool softener to prevent this. You should be back to your normal bowel routine in about 2 weeks. If the stool softener does not work, take Milk of Magnesia. If you still are not getting relief, call your surgeon.

Call your surgeon right away if you have:

• Diarrhea that lasts more than three days
• Nausea and vomiting that will not go away
• Pain in your abdomen that gets worse or isn’t eased by the pain medicine
• Pus drainage or redness around your incision
• Fever with a temperature of 100.5 or higher

 

Long-term
Your surgeon will encourage you to schedule routine mammograms at the frequency recommended for your age group. Following breast lift, you should continue to perform breast self-examination.

How Long Will the Results Last?

If a breast lift is performed properly, your breasts should not return to their preoperative droop for decades, assuming you don't have significant weight fluctuations or go through pregnancy. Some “settling” may occur, but the new nipple position should remain intact. Routine follow-up with your surgeon is important.

Your breasts can change due to:

• Childbirth
• Aging
• Weight gain or loss
• Hormonal factors
• Gravity

Follow-Up

Follow-up after surgery is extremely important and our surgeons at Salus are committed to providing all the post surgical care you need. For safety, as well as the most beautiful and healthy outcome, whenever you notice any changes in your breasts do not hesitate to contact your surgeon. In order to identify and treat any complications as they may arise, close, lifetime follow-up is essential.