Posted December 12, 2024 in Breast Lift
The classic breast lift procedure, technically known as mastopexy, elevates the breasts to a higher position by removing excess skin and tightening the tissue, creating a rejuvenated breast contour. No matter the reason for pursuing the surgery, the results will leave the breasts looking more lifted with a shape that complements your body. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, weight fluctuations, and gravity can all impact the appearance of your breasts. A breast lift can help restore their natural, perky form.
Realistic Expectations of a Breast Lift
Before committing to a breast lift, it’s important to have a realistic understanding of what the procedure can and cannot address so that you are happy with your breast lift results.
A breast lift is a lifting procedure, and the surgery alone will not change the size or shape of your breasts or add volume to the upper portion of them. While changes that occur in the breasts during pregnancy can be minimized or reversed with a breast lift, if you want fuller or bigger-looking breasts, you may require a breast lift with a breast augmentation. On the other hand, if you want smaller breasts that sit higher up on the chest, a breast lift and breast reduction combination may be right for you.
As with all types of cosmetic surgery, there will be some swelling and bruising for the first few weeks, and it will take time for the final shape of your breast lift results to take form. It’s also normal for the breasts to look a little boxy at first, but as they settle into their new position and shape, they will soften out and take on a more natural-looking form.
There will also be incisions because of your breast lift. Different techniques result in different scars, so make sure to talk through all your options with Dr. Brothers so in the end, you are happy with your breast lift results.
The Different Types of Breast Lift Procedures
Breast lift surgery is a highly individualized procedure that may require additional complimentary surgeries to reach your goals. Several different types of breast lift techniques exist, and during your consultation, we will help you determine which one is best for your breasts. The more commonly performed types of breast lifts include:
- A breast lift combined with implants for enhanced fullness or cleavage.
- A scarless lift, which is best for women with tiny breasts and mild sagging. This technique leaves behind minimal scarring.
- A lollipop lift, or a vertical lift, tends to suit women with moderate sagging who only need a slight lift. This technique requires two incisions in the shape of a lollipop to reshape the breasts.
- The crescent lift is a good technique for those interested in correcting nipple asymmetry and want subtle lifting
- Donut or peri-areolar lift is a technique for women with mild sagging
- Anchor lift is a commonly performed type of breast lift that improves extensive sagging while reducing the size of the breasts
Post-Surgery Recovery Timeline and Post-Operative Care
It’s important to follow all of Dr. Brothers’ post-surgery instructions so that your breasts heal healthily and you are happy with your breast lift results.
Immediately after surgery, you will wake up with dressings or bandages covering the incisions and wearing a post-surgery bra. It’s essential to give the breasts the support they need with a special support bra to minimize swelling. A small, thin tube may be placed under the skin of the breasts to help drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.
Take all prescribed medications as instructed to aid in healing and reduce pain and potential infections.
Since everyone heals at a different rate, you will be able to see a difference in your breasts after your surgery, but it can take up to four weeks for incisions to fully heal. At around the one-week mark, any sutures that need to be removed will be taken out at this time. All bruising and swelling should subside after two or three weeks, and any residual swelling should be gone by the third month. By about six to eight weeks after surgery, you should feel back to normal. Remember that the incisions will continue to fade for about one year.
Maintaining Your Breast Lift Results
With your new, more youthful-looking breasts in tow, it’s time to maintain them. Breast lift results are long-lasting, and even though your breasts will continue to age, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight can help keep them looking the way you want them to. That’s why it is essential to follow all instructions to ensure success.
- It’s vital that you sleep on your back, which prevents the chest ligaments from becoming stretched and pulls the breasts down.
- Make sure to protect your skin from excessive sun damage and keep the skin well hydrated
- Don’t wear a lifting or underwire bra, which can weaken the muscles and ligaments
- Try not to bounce or jump a lot
- Maintain your weight so that extra weight is not distributed to the breasts
Frequently Asked Questions
How noticeable are the results of a breast lift immediately after surgery?
Immediately after the surgery, your breasts will appear more lifted, and you will be able to see a difference. However, there will be swelling and bruising after surgery, which is normal. At about six to 12 weeks after surgery, the breasts will settle into position and become fully healed, and you will be able to see your final breast lift results.
How long do the results of a breast lift typically last?
On average, breast lift results last about 10 to 15 years, but this can vary. The longevity of your results depends on several factors.
What can affect the longevity of breast lift results?
Factors like significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy after the treatment can affect the longevity of the results. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight can help uphold your breast lift results.
