Breast Lift/Implants
Factors such as genetics, the aging process, pregnancy and breastfeeding, weight gain or loss, and even hormonal fluctuation can cause breasts that were once firm and shapely to sag and droop. A breast lift, or mastopexy can help restore a firmer, shapelier breast and improve body contours.
SURGICAL/PROCEDURE NAME
Mastopexy
COMMON NAME
- Breast Lift with or without Implant
- Breast Augmentation Lift
SURGICAL PROCEDURE
During surgery, the surgeon removes excess skin and tightens the remaining skin. The surgeon starts by assessing the required lift and fullness needed to achieve the desired result. This is done by marking a new nipple position. Using a scalpel, the surgeon then makes an incision along the pre-marked lines and separates the skin from the tissue below. The excess breast fat is then removed, the nipple is relocated to its new position and finally the new breast shape is reconstructed.
There are 3 common patterns of breast lift techniques according to the pattern of surgical incision: circumareolar lift, vertical lift and anchor or inverted-T lift.
If you decide to have implants with your breast lift, they will be placed directly under the breast tissue or chest muscle.
DURATION
4-6 hours
ANAESTHETIC
General anesthesia – discussed with your surgeon
PRE-OPERATIVE CARE
Before surgery, please inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription). To eliminate the chance of post-operative bleeding, you should avoid aspirin and any medication containing aspirin or ibuprofen for 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also not smoke for 1-2 months before or after your surgery as smoking can affect your reaction to the anesthetic and slow down the healing process. Patients who suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
In your consultation, you should discuss your expectations of the outcome of the surgery and listen to the surgeon’s opinion.
POST OPERATIVE CARE
When you wake up after surgery, you will be wrapped in elastic bandages, gauze dressing and a surgical bra. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain blood and fluids for the first day or two.
The extent of the post-operative swelling and bruising depends on whether you tend to bruise or swell easily. Every person is different. Application of cold compresses or ice packs will reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. A couple of days after surgery, the pressure bandages will be removed. The surgical bra must be worn at all times for several weeks until the swelling and bruising subsides, or until your surgeon advises you otherwise. You should only remove the surgical bra to bathe and to wash the garment.
For the first few months, it is important not to place tension on the wound by performing strenuous activities like lifting or stretching your arms above your head, as this may increase scarring by stretching the tissue.
Your surgeon will try to ensure that your incision is as subtle as possible, however it is important to remember that the scars are extensive and permanent. They may be red for months, and then slowly become fainter, eventually fading to thin white lines. In most cases, the scars are positioned so that they would not be seen if you wear low-cut tops and dresses.
Initial recovery usually takes about 2 weeks. Most people are back to work within 3 weeks.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Like all surgical procedures, breast Lift/Implants surgery has its own set of risks and side effects.
EDUCATE
Knowing what complications may arise, as well as what can prevent them, will help patients enjoy a positive experience.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Infection
- Unsatisfying results
- Excessive bleeding
- Adverse Reaction to anesthesia
- Need for second or more procedure
- Nipples may lose sensation
- Damage to the nerve and blood supply of the nipple
- Recurrent breast ptosis
- Capsular Contracture
- Scarring
In order to prevent any serious difficulties, patients are strongly urged to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
