Breast Lift

Over time, various factors such as pregnancy, breast-feeding, genetics, weight loss and gravity can affect the shape of the breast. The loss of elasticity in the skin of the breast and loss of breast tissue can cause the breasts to lose their shape and firmness.  Breasts become ptotic or "droopy" and often, nipples and areolas point downward.  Mastopexy patients range in age from early 20s to 60s.

Breast lift surgery, also known as Mastopexy, removes excess breast skin and reshapes, raises and increases the firmness of breasts that have become droopy.  During the procedure, the areola and nipple are moved into a more elevated position, and the pigmented areola is often reduced in size.  If there has been a loss in breast volume following pregnancy, or if an increase in breast size is desired, breast implants can be inserted in conjunction with a breast lift to further improve both the shape and the size of the breasts. 

Procedure
Dr. Barr uses 3 different surgical techniques in performing the Mastopexy procedure.  During the consultation process, Dr. Barr will examine the size and shape of the breasts, the quality of the breast skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas.  The optimal technique will be chosen based on the patient's individual situation and will be discussed in detail during the consultation.

During the procedure, the breast will be reshaped, excess skin removed and, if necessary, the size of the areola will be reduced in size.  The breast tissue is then remolded so that the breast will maintain its new shape and appearance.  The incision may be hidden around the areola, may have a short vertical incision down to the breast fold, or may also include an incision along the breast crease. The Mastopexy procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, or with local anaesthetic and intravenous sedation.

Post-Operative Course
Mastopexy surgery is an outpatient procedure and therefore an overnight stay is not required.  At the completion of the surgery, a light dressing and bra will be applied. The post-operative dressing must stay in place for a period of 3 days, after which patients are encouraged to shower daily.

A light gauze dressing is applied once daily.  Any post-operative swelling usually settles within 5 to 7 days and patients return to the office at 7 to 10 days following surgery for an assessment.  The sutures are dissolving and do not need to be removed.  Patients are usually up and around within 1 or 2 days and for 7 to 10 days following surgery may undertake light activity.  After 3 weeks, it is possible to participate in full normal activity.

Concurrent Procedures
Breast Augmentation, Abdominoplasty, and Liposuction are the most common procedures requested in combination with the Mastopexy procedure.