What are the changes in breasts as a person ages ?
Over time, estrogen levels drop, which leads to a loss of gland tissue in the breast. Along with changes in skin elasticity, this may cause the breasts to appear smaller and lower down than before. The nipples may also change in appearance.
Possible breast changes that may occur as a result of aging include:
● stretch marks or wrinkles appearing on the breast skin
● the breasts looking elongated, stretched, or flattened
● extra space between the breasts
What are the Breast lift results and the outlook?
The results of breast lift are immediately visible. Final results appear gradually over the next few weeks as swelling resolves and breast size and shape settles.
Incision lines typically will continue to fade over the next year. Over time, your breast can change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors and gravity.
However, your new enhanced breast contour and the freedom to wear the clothes you enjoy without the need for padded bras would bring you added self-confidence.
Who are the ideal candidates for Breast Lift?
This procedure is most suitable for women who have breasts that have sagged (ptosis), or have become floppy. Sometimes there can be asymmetry in the breasts due to them being at different levels. This procedure, called differential breast lift, can correct the asymmetry. It is also useful to achieve symmetry after breast reconstruction following mastectomy.
Some women have a combination of loss of breast volume and sagging. Such patients may need a breast augmentation along with a breast lift.
Breast lift is a highly individualized procedure – one that you should choose to undergo to fulfill your own desire for shapely youthful breasts, and not others’ desire.
How long will I be in the hospital after Breast Lift?
You will be allowed to go home either on the same day or whenever you feel comfortable.
What kind of post operative care will be needed?
The breasts will be strapped in a firm compressive dressing, till the drains are removed. You will be advised to wear a firm supportive bra continuously for eight weeks. As the wounds are closed with absorbable sutures, stitch removal is not usually necessary.
The Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Procedure
Breast lift is usually done under general anesthesia. The nipple is relocated to a higher level on a bridge of tissue which brings its blood supply. Excess skin is excised from the inferior quadrant. The breast gland is stitched to a higher level, reshaped and tightened. The wound is closed meticulously. A tube to drain out collected blood may or may not be placed, depending upon the amount of dissection. If done by the traditional technique, which is advised for severe cases of ptosis, then an anchor shaped scar will be present. If done by the modern technique, then only a single vertical scar will be present.
Those women, who also have very small volume breasts and want their breast enlarged along with a lift, can have an implant placed at the time of the breast lift. The procedure is essentially the same.
What to expect after Mastopexy surgery?
Immediately after the operation, most women experience mild swelling, bruising and tenderness. These symptoms subside in a short time. Your breasts will ride high on your chest. If done by the single scar technique, skin may get drawn into folds in the lower half of the breasts around the suture line.
Once the swelling has subsided, your breasts will settle into a more natural and pleasing location and shape. This may take up to three to six months.
After the operation, you may have mild to moderate realization of discomfort, most noticeable only on movement. This is easily controllable with oral medication. In a week’s time most of the medications can be stopped.
We advise you to refrain from vigorous activity for two weeks and aerobic upper body exercise for six weeks to allow your wounds to heal. We strongly advise you to wear a firm supportive bra continuously for eight weeks.
Following your breast surgery, you will enjoy a new more pleasing shape, with more comfortable breasts that are in a better position to your physique.
Are there any risks and complications involved in the Breast lift surgery?
● Possible complications of general anesthesia, as well as nausea, vomiting and fever may occur.
● There is a risk of infection. It is usually prevented and treated by antibiotics.
● Hematoma (collection of blood that may cause swelling, pain and bruising; perhaps requiring surgical draining).
● Sometimes there is a delay in wound healing. This is very rare after a standard breast lift.
● There could be a temporary or a permanent change or loss of sensation in the nipple or breast tissue.
