3 Breast Lift Techniques
A breast lift is a breast lift, right?
Not so fast. If you’re considering a breast lift (also known as mastopexy), you should know that there are different types available, each targeted to the patient’s circumstances.
And that’s excellent news. It means today’s breast lift candidate has a variety of options to choose from.
Here are three popular breast lift techniques, plus the scoop on what you can expect from your procedure. (Tip: not every plastic surgeon offers all the available methods. Consult an experienced surgeon to find out all about your options.)
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Are You a Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?
Not everyone is a candidate for breast lift surgery. The procedure may be for you if:
- You have sagging or drooping breasts
- You are having a breast reduction, and want a lift at the same time
- You are in generally good health
- You do not smoke
The Different Grades of Breast Sagging
While only slight sagging does not eliminate you from being a candidate for breast lift surgery, there are different grades of breast sagging that some plastic surgeons use to determine how advanced your issue is.
Here is the grading scale most plastic surgeons follow:
- Grade One: No sagging of the skin. The bottom of the breast sits above the breast fold.
- Grade Two: Slight sagging and laxity of the skin. The bottom of the breast sits at the breast fold.
- Grade Three: Moderate sagging and laxity of the skin. The bottom of the breast sits below the breast fold. The nipple points slightly downward.
- Grade Four: Severe sagging and laxity of the skin. The bottom of the breast sits below the breast fold. The nipple points downward.
Top 3 Breast Lift Techniques
You and your plastic surgeon will decide on the type of breast lift you receive based on the size and shape of your breasts, your degree of sagging, and your goals.
1. Circumareolar Mastopexy/Donut Mastopexy
This method is used for patients with moderate to severe laxity. Choose a plastic surgeon who is well-versed in the technique so you get a natural-looking result, with minimal scarring.
- An incision is made around the areola.
- Excess skin and tissue are removed.
- The nipple, areola, and breast are repositioned higher on the chest.
- The incision is closed.
2. Inverted-T Mastopexy/Anchor Mastopexy
The inverted-T technique is utilized when there is severe sagging of the breasts and heavy breast tissue.
- An incision is made around the areola.
- The incision is continued down from the lower breast tissue and around the natural curve of the lower breast fold.
- Excess skin and tissue are removed.
- The nipple, areola, and breast are repositioned higher on the chest.
- The incision is closed using several layers of sutures.
3. Internal Bra Mastopexy
This is a newer technique that leaves less of a scar. It can be used on women who have larger breasts.
- An incision is made around the areola.
- The tissue under the skin is reshaped.
- An acellular dermal (ACD) matrix is added for internal support.
- The incision is closed using several layers of sutures.
Are the Recovery Times Different for Each Technique?
If you’re considering a breast lift, you’re probably wondering which type will take the least recovery time.
Recovery from a breast lift is similar among the three techniques. Your recovery will depend upon your overall health, whether or not you experience complications, and how extensive your surgery is.
For most breast lifts:
- You will wake up in a recovery room and will be asked to walk a few steps. (If not, you will be asked to move very soon after the surgery. Movement helps prevent blood clots.)
- You will have a post-surgical garment on. You will not be able to wear your regular bra for four to six weeks after your surgery.
- You will be given medication or a prescription for medication to help manage discomfort.
- You will experience bruising and swelling for several weeks to several months following the procedure.
- Your pain level should go down considerably after the second to third weeks. If not, call your doctor.
- You should be able to start driving again in two to three weeks.
- You should be able to resume all your normal activities, including your regular workouts, four to six weeks after the procedure.
At Your Consultation
You can find out more during your consultation with the plastic surgeon. Be sure to bring a list of questions, so you know what to expect in advance.
It’s essential to be honest with your doctor about past or present drug or alcohol use, your medical history, and any current medical conditions you have.
Make sure you choose a plastic surgeon who is very familiar with different breast lift techniques. This way, you can be sure to have the right procedure to meet your goals.
