Dr. Bonnie Baldwin
Breast Lift
As skin ages, it loses elasticity and firmness leading to changes in size, shape and position of the breasts. Hormonal changes, pregnancies, breast feeding and weight fluctuations can also lead to unwanted changes. Not only can sagging breasts make some women feel self-conscious about their figure, they can also cause physical strain on the back, neck and shoulders, as well as rashes and yeast infections underneath the breasts. A breast lift (mastopexy) can help raise breasts into a more youthful position, while improving breast shape and symmetry. Whether performed on its own, or in conjunction with either breast augmentation or breast reduction, a breast lift can help give you a more balanced and youthful looking figure.
- Candidates for Mastopexy
- Mastopexy Goals
- Mastopexy Incisions
- Mastopexy Procedure and Recovery
- Follow-up After Surgery
- At your consultation
SURGICAL CARE INSTRUCTIONS
- Pre-Op Office Procedures pdf | html
- Pre-op Instructions for General Anesthetic Procedures pdf | html
- Mastopexy pdf | html
Candidates for Mastopexy
Women are often surprised to learn that you do not need to be post-menopausal to require or want a breast lift. Early life changes such as pregnancy or weight fluctuations can also make someone a good candidate. Women who are seeking higher, firmer or more youthful looking breasts often consider a breast lift. This procedure can also be combined with breast augmentation or breast reduction for those women who would like to improve both the size and shape of their breasts. Dr. Baldwin will meet with you to discuss your goals and help you determine if this is the right procedure for you.
Mastopexy Goals
Talking with Dr. Baldwin includes planning for a realistic and healthy breast shape goal for your breast lift surgery. The goal of the surgery is to raise the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. Patients often notice that their nipple-areolar complex has become enlarged over time. A breast lift will reduce this as well.
One of the first concerns many women mention in the consultation is that their breasts pull their shoulders forward negatively affecting posture. A breast lift can rejuvenate a woman’s figure with a breast profile that is more youthful and uplifted.
It is important for patients to understand that a breast lift will not significantly change the size of the breasts or round out the upper part of the breasts. If changing the size or adding fullness is a goal, then adding a breast reduction or breast augmentation to the procedure would be appropriate.
Mastopexy Incisions
Dr. Baldwin uses many techniques to improve breast shape and position. The specific incisions used are determined by the amount of correction needed dependent on factors such as degree of sagging, nipple position, skin elasticity and the amount of excess breast skin. At your consultation, Dr. Baldwin will discuss the best technique to address your specific concerns.
With every procedure, Dr. Baldwin thoughtfully places the incisions to minimize visual scarring when possible. In general, incisions are made in one of two patterns. The lollipop or vertical pattern is around the areola and then vertically down to the breast crease. The inverted “T” or anchor incision is around the areola, vertically down and then running horizontally along the breast crease. The latter pattern is often used when more correction and support are needed.
Mastopexy Procedure and Recovery
Dr. Baldwin performs breast reduction procedures at an accredited, outpatient surgical center connected to a hospital or at a full-service hospital. It is an outpatient procedure and usually takes up to three hours when performed without breast augmentation or reduction.
Breast lift patients feel a sensation of mild swelling and fullness the night after surgery that is relieved with pain medications and resting in an upright position on two to three pillows. Most patients are able to drive moderate distances safely four to five days after surgery.
Dr. Baldwin believes post-operative guidelines for restraint from vigorous exercise for six weeks decreases potential complications, and ensures the most natural and pleasing long-term result. Potential complications are decreased when the procedure is done at a time where the patient has time to follow the postoperative instructions, allowing for healing without excessive swelling.
Follow-up After Surgery
Natural, long-lasting results are facilitated by close postoperative follow-up care. Breast lift patients are given clear, written instructions and seen by Dr. Baldwin in the office following your procedure at day one, week one, week three, week six, three months, six months and annually thereafter. It is important to know there are no additional charges for these important follow-up visits. Closely following the instructions given at the early visits help the patient understand how to best heal from surgery. Our office is always available to see prior breast lift patients for concerns that might arise in the future.
At Your Consultation
New statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons show breast lifts have grown 70 percent since 2000, outpacing breast implants 2-to-1. New information is continually being explored for breast lift options. Dr. Baldwin is interested in discussing all your questions and sharing her opinion and experience on the newest techniques for mastopexy during your consultation.