A Quick Overview of Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy)

Many a woman has cursed Isaac Newton at some time or another. This darned thing called gravity takes its toll on all of us, and unfortunately some more than others. If you find that time indeed has taken its toll on your body, specifically your breasts, you may be considering one of the more popular methods of cosmetic surgery to undo what time has done by choosing breast lift surgery.

Mastopexy, the medical term for a breast lift, can work wonders for not only your looks but your self-esteem. You can regain those “looks of admiration” you once enjoyed from others as well as feel more alive and self-confident in general. Breast lift surgery is a commonplace procedure thanks to today’s technology.

Of course, the first step is a visit and interview with your board-certified cosmetic surgeon. During this initial interview and consultation, you can evaluate the physician as well as discuss your overall goals and concerns. The surgeon should explain the process in a step-by-step manner so you fully understand the procedure.

Mastopexy can be performed with breast implants or without breast implants. When choosing implants, the most popular implant types are silicone implants or saline implants. Each has its unique features and advantages. The silicone-based implants are known for their natural feel and shape. The downside is the initial incision to insert them is a little wider than saline. The unique advantages of saline implants are the insertion incision is much smaller, and because the implants are filled post-insertion, can be tailored for look and contour. The surgery itself is routine and is done under general anesthesia. Recovery time is usually less than a week before you’re completely back on your feet.

As time passes the effects of aging, gravity, weight loss, pregnancy, and more cause a woman's supporting skin to become loose and sag around the breasts. Without the use of breast implants, this cosmetic surgery procedure is relatively straightforward, but a bit more complex. An incision is made from the areola to the lower breast to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing the excess skin. Then the remaining tissue and nipples are realigned and stretched resulting in lifting and rounding of the breast as a whole.

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, and these risks should be thoroughly explained to you by your cosmetic surgeon beforehand. The risks are small, and the vast majority of women who choose either procedure are quite satisfied with the youthful, firming results of breast lift surgery.