What is A Breast Lift (Mastopexy Procedure)?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that removes and tightens excess skin around the breasts. The goal of a lift is to raise the breasts to a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing position.
When you undergo a breast lift in Naperville, IL at CCLS, you receive attentive, personalized care. Dr. Joseph Franco of the Center for Cosmetic and Laser Surgery is a double board certified surgeon who specializes in breast procedures. You can depend on him and the rest of our team to cultivate a treatment plan specifically tailored to your cosmetic goals.
When Your Breasts Don’t Bounce Back
A number of factors can cause a woman’s breasts to begin to sag and lose firmness. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, fluctuations in weight, and everyone’s worst enemy – gravity – can all contribute to lost skin elasticity. You may also experience enlargement of the areolas as your skin stretches.
These bodily changes can make anyone feel self-conscious and uncomfortable in their own body. Fortunately, a breast lift procedure in Naperville can address your cosmetic concerns.* If you’re unhappy with the way your breasts have changed over time, a lift can help restore your self confidence.
When is A Breast Lift Performed?
A breast lift is usually recommended if a client’s breasts are considered to be “sagging.” This typically means the nipple falls below the breast crease (the inframammary fold). In some extreme cases, a patient’s nipples may look as if they’re hanging from the bottom of the breasts.
A lift can also be used to correct breast asymmetry or enhance the results of a breast reduction or breast augmentation procedure. Breast lifts are commonly performed as part of Mommy Makeovers in Naperville.
The Procedure
When you undergo a breast lift, the surgeon pulls the skin that has lost its elasticity upwards. They may also remove excess skin and tissue in the area. This creates a more aesthetically pleasing appearance by simply raising the breasts.
Your surgeon will perform your breast lift using one of three incision techniques. Which one the surgeon recommends will depend on the level of lift you desire.
Sedation or general anesthesia is typically used during this type of procedure.
Incision Techniques
Crescent Incision: The crescent incision is for correction of minimal sagging. The surgeon places the incision along the upper edge of the areola, in a crescent moon shape. This allows for minimal scarring and placement of a breast implant if desired.*
Donut Incision: The donut incision is also used to correct minor sagging. An incision is made along the edges of the areola in a circular shape.
Lollipop Incision: The lollipop incision technique begins with a donut-shaped incision. Once this is completed, another vertical incision crosses from the bottom edge of the areola to the breast crease.
Anchor Incision: An anchor incision is used in cases of extreme breast sagging. It’s essentially a lollipop lift with two additional horizontal incisions placed within the breast crease. They extend from the bottom of the vertical incision, which creates an anchor-like shape.
Your Recovery
Recovery from a breast lift is different for every patient. However, most patients fully recover within 6-12 weeks.
Immediately after surgery, you’ll need to wear a special support bra 24 hours a day for about 3-4 weeks. Prior to removing your stitches, you may start with a tighter bra or surgical wrapping.
Many patients are able to return to work within 7-10 days, depending on their profession. Patients must avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks.
You will experience some swelling, bruising, tenderness, and numbness over the course of your recovery. This is normal and will slowly subside over a 6 week period. Bruising typically lasts for a little over 2 weeks.
If pain or tenderness increases, you’ll need to contact us immediately for a follow-up appointment.
Your Results
Breast lift patients at CCLS regain their sense of femininity and confidence following their mastopexy procedure.
Final results are usually visible within 6 weeks and can last a lifetime if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.* However, it’s important to note some things can impact your breast lift results. These may include weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, other surgeries, and age.
Ideal Candidates for Breast Lift Surgery
If you’re experiencing insecurity or discomfort due to misshapen or sagging breasts, cosmetic surgery might be for you. Good candidates for a breast lift are women whose breasts have begun to sag or look deflated. This may include:
- Women who have had kids or breastfed
- Women who have gone through significant weight loss or experienced weight fluctuations throughout their life
- Women who have noticed changes in their breasts due to age or hormonal fluctuations
- Women with asymmetrical breasts
- Women whose breasts have changed after surgery or injury
If you’re unhappy with the look of your breasts, contact us at Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery today. Our experienced team of plastic surgeons are here to help you achieve your cosmetic goals.
Contact Us for Breast Lift Surgery in Naperville
If you believe you’re a good candidate for a breast lift, contact Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery. Schedule a consultation today and we’ll help you understand the intricacies of this procedure.
Additionally, if you want to alter your breast size, you can pair this procedure with an augmentation or reduction surgery. At CCLS, we also offer fat transfer breast augmentation for women who do not want implants.
*All patient testimonials express individual opinions. These testimonials have not been substantiated by Center for Cosmetic & Laser Surgery. No two procedures are the same and results will vary from patient to patient.
