OUR PROCEDURES & SERVICES
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Breast
The Procedure
Breast Augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the shape and size of a woman's breasts for the following reasons: (1) to enlarge breast size, (2) to correct a breast volume reduction that may occur after pregnancy, (3) to correct an imbalance in breast size and (4) as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
The Method(s)
The size and shape of your breasts, size of your areolas, and the extent of sagging are amongst the main factors considered by Dr. Chiu when determining the best mastoplexy technique to use. Variations of breast lift surgery are derived from the number and length of incisions needed. For instance, the Crescent Lift involves one fine incision made at the upper edge of the areola. In the Binelli, or Circle Lift, the incision is a circular line that follows the natural edge of the areola. In a Lollipop Lift, the incision is similar to that in a Circle Lift, with the addition of a vertical line that also extends from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease. This technique allows for a greater lift and is generally performed on women who have lost a great deal of breast tissue and have significant skin excess at the bottom of the breast.
Perhaps the most common breast lift technique is known as the Anchor-shaped Incision, or Full Lift, in which three incisions are made in an anchor shape around the natural contour of the breast. The first incision is placed around the areola, extending above it and creating a new position for the nipple. The second incision is placed vertically between the nipple and the bottom of the breast. The third incision runs on the underside of the breast just above the fold under the breast. Excess skin will be removed where the incisions have created flaps, as well as the when the nipple and areola are moved to a higher location on the breast. The nipple and areola remain connected to the underlying breast tissue and associated nerve and blood supply to reduce chances of sensation loss.
Ideal Candidate
Common candidates for breast lift surgery have one or more of the following conditions: (1) drooping breasts of satisfactory size, (2) breasts lacking substance or firmness, (3) downward pointing nipples and areolas, particularly if they are positioned below the breast crease, (4) difference in firmness, shape, and size of breasts. Results are generally longer lasting when the breast lift procedure is performed on smaller breasts, than when performed on large and heavy breasts. Pregnancy and breast feeding?
Surgery and Anesthesia
Dr. Chiu will perform your breast lift surgery in a fully-accredited surgery center or in a hospital outpatient facility. Breast lift surgery can be performed in one to three hours with general anesthesia, allowing you to sleep through the entire operation. Alternatively, a breast lift may be performed using local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. In this case, you will be awake and may feel mild discomfort. Small drain tubes may be placed in your breasts to help avoid the accumulation of fluids.
Recovery
You will wear an elastic bandage or surgical bra over gauze dressings after surgery and should anticipate bruising and swelling of the breasts for at least a day or two. Mild discomfort is not abnormal for two to seven days following the surgery and can be managed by prescribed pain medication. Within one week, the bandages or surgical bra will be replaced by a soft support bra, which should be worn for the next three to four weeks. Your surgical drains will be removed and dressings changed at this time. Generally, stitches will be removed in stages over a period of approximately three weeks, beginning about one week following surgery. Most breast lift patients resume normal activities within one to two weeks following surgery, but are recommended to avoid strenuous sports for about one month. Complete recovery instructions and information will be provided to you by the office, prior to surgery, after your surgery, as well as during your post operative visits.
Risks
Fortunately, few significant complications have stemmed from breast lift surgeries. Some of the potential complications may include bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. Permanent loss of sensation in the nipples or areas of breast skin occurs rarely.
Your New Look
Many women who have undergone breast lift surgery are extremely satisfied with their fuller, more uplifted breasts as well as the improved position and size of their areolas and nipples. Though the incision scars may initially be lumpy or pink in color, they will heal and fade to thin white lines over time. Fortunately, these incisions are often located in areas easily concealed by clothing, even low-cut necklines. The results of your breast lift should remain fairly constant, unless a significant amount of weight is gained or loss. Nonetheless, gravity, pregnancy, and the effects of aging will eventually alter the size and shape of virtually every woman's breast. Secondary breast lift is an option and those who have breast implants in conjunction with their breast lift may find the results to last longer.
*Some information extracted from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
