MASTOPEXY: BREAST UPLIFT PROCEDURES

For many women, the shape of their breasts is an important feature of their appearance. Pregnancy, breast-feeding, weight loss, and the natural ageing process cause the breasts to sag. Several types of techniques are used to lift the breasts and enhance their shape.

As a qualified breast plastic surgeon I’m equipped to help you by addressing your specific needs, assess the suitability of these procedures and advise you with discretion and professionalism.

Taking Breast Ptosis Seriously

Breast ptosis (sagging) can cause a range of psychological and social problems that negatively affect the confidence and self-esteem. The condition may cause difficulty in finding well-fitted clothing, self-image issues, and upsetting feelings of lost femininity or unattractiveness.

Mastopexy procedures that enhance the shape of the breasts to suit the body frame may be the solution.

Mastopexy: What Techniques Exist?

Many variations of the mastopexy procedure exist. Several factors must be considered and discussed in order to decide which technique is the best for you. The type of mastopexy procedure used will vary according to:

The amount of skin and breast tissue removed
The shape of skin excision and resulting scars (periareolar, vertical, short inverted T, or Wise-pattern inverted T)
The use or absence of synthetic mesh

Am I Suitable for Mastopexy?

Mastopexy is an excellent, safe option for improving the shape of breasts by correcting droopiness and achieving lifted, pert breasts. The operation does not increase the volume of the breast unless it is combined with an augmentation procedure such as implantation or lipomodelling.

If there is a history of breast cancer in your family, or you are older than 40, it is strongly advised that you undertake a mammogram (X-ray of the breasts) before you arrange any breast surgery.

What Will Happen at the Consultation?

I will take a detailed history to explore your concerns and requirements.

I will examine your breasts for asymmetries, lumps, and abnormalities and take some measurements.

Then, I will discuss the suitability of the procedure with you, the mastopexy technique to be used, and the expected outcome. I will also go over any alternative options.

If you are a good candidate for surgery, I will explain the procedure in detail, as well as the recovery process, and possible risks and complications.

What Happens on the Day of Surgery?

The procedure will be a day-case surgery, meaning you’ll be able to return home on the same day. I will see you before surgery to make some markings on your skin. The anaesthetist will then see you to begin the anaesthesia.

During surgery, you will be given a dose of antibiotic to reduce the risk of infection. Then, I will infiltrate the breasts with plenty of local anaesthetic to numb the skin and deep tissue. When you wake up after surgery, you may feel some tightness but should not feel significant pain due to the effect of the local anaesthetic. The wounds will be covered with dressings.

What is the Recovery Process?

You will be given strong painkillers to take home, which should control all pain and discomfort.

You will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days. It usually takes one to two weeks to return to day-to-day activities. It may take up to four weeks to return to full physical activities.

You should wear a well-fitted support bra and refrain from upper-body exercise or sleeping on your chest for six weeks after surgery.

What Follow-up Do I Get?

I will see you:

one week after surgery to check the wounds.
6-8 weeks after surgery to check the condition of the scars.
6 months after, surgery to check the shape of the breast.

Are There Any Alternatives?

That would depend on your aims and expectations, which are better measured and discussed during the consultation. For example, breast augmentation with implants or by fat transfer might be a better option if the main issue was the lack of breast volume rather than the shape of the breast. Breast reduction surgery might also be the alternative if the breast size is too big. Gynecomastia correction is also available for men.