MASTOPEXY
(BREAST LIFT)

WHO IS A CANDIDATE

• If you have sagging breasts due to past pregnancies, genetics or aging.
• If the sagging is too significant to be treated with an implant alone.
• If the nipple-areola complexes (pigmented areas around the nipples) are enlarged.

Before	After

INTENDED RESULT

• A mastopexy or breast lift procedure is designed to improve the shape and position of the breasts without reducing their size. It is used for breasts that sag but are not overly large. Sagging of the breasts may occur with normal development for some women, or as part of aging. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss are other conditions that increase breast ptosis (sagging). Some patients will have a better shape to their breasts if implants are used at the time of mastopexy.
• An elevated, more youthful breast contour.
• Nipple-areolar complexes of the desired size and at the correct height.

PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION

• The procedure is done on an outpatient basis in our accredited surgical facility under sedation with local or general anesthesia.
• Several different techniques are available for this procedure. Most commonly there is an incision around the areola, another between the areola and breast crease, and a third within the crease under the breast. This is the "anchor-shape" or inverted "T" incision. On occasion, especially with mastopexy, these incisions may be modified and more limited.
• The nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher, the excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped to have a pleasing contour and to be in a more normal position. Breast-feeding should not be affected.
• The insertion of a breast implant is possible and may be desirable at the same time as mastopexy.

RECUPERATION AND HEALING

• An ace-wrap type of dressing will be applied for the first few nights. You will then be able to go braless for a period of time in order to allow gravity to round out the contour of your breasts.
• Sutures are removed within 1 to 2 weeks.
• Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. Light activities may be started in 7 to 10 days. Lifting over 10 pounds is to be avoided for 2 weeks.

OTHER OPTIONS

• Additional procedures that may enhance your result are breast augmentation, abdominal liposuction or liposuction to the axilla.