Breast Lift
MASTOPEXY
Breasts can deflate and droop due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and the effects of time and gravity. A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, raises the breasts and the nipple/areola by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the breast.
Benefits
- Rejuvenate the appearance of the breasts with a contour and nipple/areolar position that is more youthful
- Can be combined with breast augmentation to create more upper pole fullness and increase in cup size.
Ideal Candidate
- You are a nonsmoker, physically healthy with a stable weight, and you aren't pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts sag or have lost shape and volume
- Your breasts have a flatter, elongated shape or are pendulous
- When unsupported, your nipples fall below the breast crease or your nipples and areolas point downward
- You have stretched skin and enlarged areolas
- One breast is lower than the other, this procedure can help with asymmetry
Consultation
- During your consultation, Dr. Cho will assess your current medical history, including medications, vitamins and herbal supplements you take, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. She will also ask about family history of breast cancer, previous mammograms, and if you’ve had any breast biopsies.
- Examine and measure your breasts, including detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality and placement of your nipples and areolas. She will also examine your breasts for any masses or lesions.
- Take photographs
- Discuss with you what type of breast lift would be the best option for you; some patients are better candidates for fewer scars while others may achieve a better breast contour with the full anchor-type scars.
- Discuss risks or potential complications
Recovery
- 1-2 weeks
- During your recovery you will have a support bra that will minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
- You will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical sites after surgery, and how to take the prescribed medications to reduce pain and risks of infection.
- It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing.
- To help avoid postoperative complications and facilitate healing, you will not be able to lift more than 15 lbs or do any strenuous activities particularly if it involves pushing or pulling for a few weeks.
Pre- and Post-Op Care
- Do not take any blood thinning medications for 1 week before surgery: these include aspirin, NSAIDs, ibuprofen/motrin, naproxen. Also avoid any herbal supplements or vitamins which can prolong bleeding.
- Do not smoke or vape or take nicotine-containing products before or after your surgery as they can impair the healing process.
- You will typically be allowed to sponge bathe, but do not shower until cleared by Dr. Cho
- Wear your surgical bra at all times if possible.
- Take medications as directed.
- Avoid heavy lifting as directed by your surgeon.
- Come to all postoperative visits as scheduled.
Surgery is a big decision.
We are here to answer any questions you have and help you determine the right choice for you. If you are considering surgery, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Cho today. She would be honored to discuss your goals and help you achieve the look you desire.