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Breast Lift / Breast Reduction

BREAST LIFT

If you have ever stood in front of a mirror and wished that your breasts were firmer, higher and more youthful looking, breast lift surgery may be a good option for you. A breast lift can rejuvenate your figure by restoring the lift and shape that is often lost as gravity takes its toll.

In breast lift surgery, also called mastopexy, the breasts are raised, the nipples are repositioned and the areolas (the darker skin around the nipples) may be reduced in size. If you have lost breast volume over the years and you want to add more fullness, implants may be inserted during breast lift surgery to increase breast size. (See Figure C.)

IS A BREAST LIFT THE RIGHT THING FOR YOU?

You may be a good candidate for breast lift surgery if you have any of the following conditions:

ARE THERE OPTIONS?

There are many variations in breast lift technique. (See Figures A and B.) The techniques used are based on the size of your areolas and the extent of the sagging. In some instances, it may be possible to avoid the horizontal incision that runs beneath the breast. For other women, a technique may be used that avoids both the horizontal incision and the vertical incision that runs from the edge of the areola to the breast crease.

FIGURE A

Incisions following the breast's natural contour define the area of excision and the new location for the nipple and areola. Skin in the shaded area is removed, and the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position.

FIGURE B

Skin formerly located above the areola is brought down and together to reshape the breast.

FIGURE C

After surgery, the breasts are higher and firmer, with temporary stitches usually located around the areola, below it and in the crease under the breast.

BREAST REDUCTION

If you are a woman with overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can be a tremendously life-enhancing option. The procedure will give you far more than just smaller, firmer breasts. You’ll also get significant relief from many physical and emotional discomforts, a new sense of freedom in your exercise and physical activity, and the ability to wear a greater variety of clothing styles. In fact, of all the procedures that plastic surgeons perform, breast reduction ranks among the highest in patient satisfaction.

IS BREAST REDUCTION RIGHT FOR YOU?

Childbirth and breast-feeding may affect the size and shape of your breasts. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss that with us. You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following conditions: (See Figure A.)

HOW IS BREAST REDUCTION PERFORMED?

The specific method chosen for your breast reduction will be determined by your anatomy, and your desired results. (See Figures B and C.)

HOW WILL I LOOK AND FEEL RIGHT AFTER SURGERY?

Within the first week:
You will begin to move about more comfortably and perhaps even return to (non-strenous) work. Surgical drains will be removed and dressings will be changed.

After several weeks:
Bruising, swelling and normal periodic discomfort will diminish. You can discontinue wearing a support bra. Sensation within the nipple and areola area will gradually improve. You may return to most of your normal activities, including mild exercise.

After a few months:
Your breasts will start settling into a more natural shape. Incision lines will begin to fade. (See Figure D.) If you haven’t felt it sooner, you will notice relief from neck, back, and shoulder pain.

FIGURE A

Incisions following the breast's natural contour define the area of excision and the new location for the nipple and areola. Skin in the shaded area is removed, and the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position.

FIGURE B

Skin formerly located above the areola is brought down and together to reshape the breast.

FIGURE C

After surgery, the breasts are higher and firmer, with temporary stitches usually located around the areola, below it and in the crease under the breast.

FIGURE D

After surgery, the breasts are higher and firmer, with temporary stitches usually located around the areola, below it and in the crease under the breast.