Mastopexy/Breast Up-lift
Many women find following the birth of their children and subsequent breastfeeding that their breasts lose definition, having changed shape and become droopy. Aging and fluctuating weight-loss and gain can also take its toll causing the breasts to lose their elasticity and shape causing them to sag. The aim of mastopexy is not necessarily to change the size of the breast but more to re-shape and raise the breast. In some instances where the breast has drooped and there is also a loss of volume, usually in the upper part of the breast, an uplift alone may not be enough and consideration of a combined uplift and breast augmentation may be given.
What are the benefits?
The results of this operation can be excellent and you can expect less drooping of your breast with nipples in a higher position and a fuller shape in the upper half of your breast. However, it is important to note that although mastopexy can give you many years of rejuvenated, younger looking breasts, your breast won’t keep firm and pert forever. With time and age, ultimately, gravity will always win the battle.
The procedure
The operation involves tightening and removing excess skin from around the areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple) or from under your breasts. The incision required will depend on the droopiness of the breasts. These scars may be restricted to the area around the nipple or extend vertically down the breast. The nipples are re-positioned, and the size of the areola may be reduced, to suit the new shape. If you have particularly large breasts, your surgeon may need to remove some breast tissue in order to stop them from drooping. Following surgery your incisions are closed and your breasts are wrapped in a supportive dressing. Drains may be left in each breast for up to 48 hours afterwards.
How long does the operation take?
Breast Reduction Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and takes approximately 2 – 2½ hours.
How long do I stay in hospital?
You are booked into hospital for a 2 night stay.
What can I expect afterwards?
Unfortunately mastopexy will involve a certain amount of scarring. Your scar line is situated around the nipple and extends vertically downwards to the under-breast crease. Finally some tape, and a light dressing is applied over all suture lines. The sutures are of the dissolving kind and will not need to be removed. Following your surgery, as with all breast procedures, you will be asked to wear a support bra. On discharge from the hospital you will be given a post-operative wound check appointment, when your wound will be inspected and cleaned.
What are the long term results?
Following mastopexy you can expect your breasts to droop less; your nipples will be in a higher position and you upper breast will be fuller. It is important to note however that although immediately after surgery your new breast will be apparent, it may take up to six months for everything to settle. This procedure can give you many years of firmer breasts, but it is important to remember that your breast won’t keep firm forever as time, age and ultimately gravity will always win out.
What are the risks?
With any surgical procedure there are always associated risks. However, if your surgery is undertaken by a qualified plastic surgeon the risks are reduced, nonetheless, specific complications may occur. Such as the risk of infection which is reduced by taking preventative measures such as administering antibiotics both at the time of and following your surgery. However despite these measures mild infection is relatively common and can occur around the incision site, but usually subsides over a period of about 2 weeks.
The consultation
It is important for you to examine the reasons for undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure as it is unlikely to resolve any life issues you may have. Having surgery for someone else is not the basis from which to make a decision. Cosmetic surgery will certainly boost your self esteem but you do need to be realistic about your expectations. Cosmetic surgery will lead to marked improvements but you also need to be aware that the end result of your surgery can and does take time and you need to allow your body time to recover.
Our aim is to fully understand your concerns and desires before agreeing on a treatment plan which is in your best interest. At consultation your consultant surgeon will explain your treatment fully including any potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will also advise you on the most appropriate procedure for you and will also explain all aspects of your post-operative care.
If you would like to speak to one of our consultant surgeons, Mr Alan Park or Mr Sudip Ghosh, please do not hesitate to telephone or fill out our online form.