Breast Lift
Many women, who once had well shaped breasts, now have breasts that have drooped or sagged. Mastopexy is a breast lift operation which can be performed to help restore more natural looking breasts. At the Dallas Fort Worth Institute of Body Sculpturing, Dr. Walter Dobson offers mastopexy, also known as breast lift, to his patients.
The Procedure
Excess skin is removed and the nipples and areolae are repositioned to a more natural site. Sometimes breast shape can only be enhanced by the insertion of an implant deep in the breast. Although mastopexy does leave permanent scars on the breasts, breast shape should be markedly improved.
The operation can be done either as out-patient or in-patient surgery, usually under general anesthesia, occasionally under local anesthesia with sedation. It takes between one and three hours. Depending on the extent of the problem, the incision made may be only around the areolae (for less severe breast droop), or may include a vertical scar below the areolae, or it may include a horizontal scar in the crease below the breast.
Recovery
The recovery period depends on the extent of the procedure, but patients should be able to return to work within a week. Sutures do not need to be removed as these will dissolve of their own accord. Heavy physical contact with the breasts may be painful for up to a month following the operation. The scars should fade after several months.
Risks and complications
Temporary side effects include discomfort and soreness in the breasts, bruising, altered nipple and areolar sensation and increased breast sensitivity for a few weeks. Complications of the procedure include bleeding, infection, asymmetry and scarring.
The longevity of the procedure is variable, but an improvement in breast shape should last for five to ten years or longer. Inevitably the effects of gravity, aging, weight alterations and future pregnancies may adversely affect the breast shape and lead to further sagging of the breasts. The results may be longer lasting if implants are inserted as part of the procedure.
For more information
Dr. Dobson and the staff of the Dallas-Fort Worth Institute of Body Sculpturing are available to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about breast lift.