Frequently Asked Questions
What is a breast lift (mastopexy)?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and improve the shape of the breasts. During the surgery, excess skin is removed, and breast tissue is reshaped to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Am I a candidate for mastopexy?
Candidates for mastopexy are women who have sagging breasts due to various factors such as breastfeeding, aging, gravity, genetics, or weight changes. Good overall health and realistic expectations are important criteria for mastopexy candidates.
It is worth noting that mastopexy is often performed after breastfeeding or to correct misshapen or asymmetrical breasts. Women who are planning to have more children may be advised to postpone mastopexy, as pregnancy can cause additional drooping of the breasts.
Mastopexy is typically performed when a woman desires to address sagging or drooping of the breasts. This may occur after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or due to the natural aging process.
How can I avoid scars?
While some scarring is inevitable with breast lift surgery, the goal is to create the most attractive breast shape with minimal scarring. Different types of breast lift techniques result in varying scar patterns, ranging from just around the areola to extending down and across the bottom of the breast.
Dr. Larry Fan advocates for a short scar breast lift approach, using the least amount of lift necessary to achieve the desired outcome. However, it is important to note that every patient must weigh the trade-off between breast shape improvement and the presence of scars when deciding on a breast lift.
Can I avoid a breast lift if I get implants?
Breast implants alone cannot lift sagging breasts. While they can fill out mildly deflated breasts, they are not a suitable substitute for a breast lift procedure. In fact, adding implants without a lift may worsen the droopiness of the breasts.
In select cases, breast implants alone may be used to fill out mildly deflated breasts, particularly for women with naturally small breasts. However, for extensive skin laxity or droopiness, a breast lift is necessary to address sagging.
Do I need an implant with my breast lift?
Breast lift surgery alone does not significantly change the size of the breasts. Its primary goal is to lift and reshape the existing breast tissue. However, a breast lift can make the breasts appear fuller and rounder.
The need for an implant in conjunction with a breast lift depends on the patient's individual preferences and goals. Some women choose to combine a breast lift with augmentation to achieve their desired breast size and shape.
What are the risks of a breast lift?
As with any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries certain risks. These risks may include bleeding, infection, scarring, delayed healing, tissue loss, altered sensitivity, and suboptimal results.
It is important to discuss these risks with your plastic surgeon during the consultation stage to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the potential complications associated with the procedure.
When can I return to work?
The recovery time after a breast lift procedure varies from patient to patient. However, most patients can expect to return to work within 3-7 days, depending on the nature of their job.
What is the recovery time?
The recovery time for breast lift surgery can also vary, but patients can typically resume light activities within 2-5 days following the procedure. Low-impact exercises can often be resumed after approximately 4 weeks.
During the recovery period, it is recommended to wear a supportive bra and sleep on your back at an incline to aid in the healing process. Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, numbness, gathering of incisions, and gradual healing of scars. These symptoms should subside over the course of 3-6 months.
