A breast lift (also called mastopexy) is a surgery carried out to change the shape of the breasts. During the procedure, a plastic surgeon removes excess tissue and skin. They can reshape the breast tissue so it can be raised.
Women usually opt for this if their breasts are sagging or nipples are pointing downward. However, it doesn’t change the size of the breast.
In today’s article, we’ll talk about why this surgery is primarily performed and whether there are risks involved.
Why It Is Usually Done
With age, the shape of the breasts changes. They lose firmness and the ability to snap back into place after being stretched. There can be many causes for these changes, including pregnancy, weight changes, and even gravity.
For example, the bands of tissue that support the breast may stretch during pregnancy. They get heavier and fuller. Similarly, weight changes may also make the breast skin less elastic. A breast lift can reduce that impact and raise the nipples. The surgery can also lift the darker areas and make them smaller, keeping them balanced with the new shape.
Risks Associated with Surgery
The entire surgical process also carries risks. The major one is scarring. They don’t go away and may fade within 1-2 years. Similarly, poor healing after the surgery may also cause scars to become thick.
In addition, you may also experience the loss of breast feeling. In some cases, you may get an uneven shape or size of the breasts.
In rare cases, the blood supply to the nipples can stop during the lift. This can damage the breast tissues and can even cause a total loss of the nipple. Some women may also have trouble producing enough milk after surgery.
How a Woman Can Get Prepared
It’s important to choose a reliable surgeon with a proven track record of performing these surgeries successfully. They will give you an entire list of things you should do or avoid.
They’ll ask you important questions about your current and past medical conditions. They’ll also conduct a physical exam to guide your treatment options.
A mammogram may be recommended to see the changes in your breast tissue. You should also avoid smoking before the procedures as it lessens the flow of blood to the skin. Certain medications also carry the risk of increasing bleeding, so you must stop taking them.
Results You Can Expect
Right after the surgery, you may see a significant change in the shape of your breasts. And it will keep changing over the next few months.
The hard scars may also appear. While scars will stay forever, they’ll become thin in 1-2 years. Bathing suits and bras can be used to hide those scars.
It’s important to mention that the results of the procedure may not last forever. You may feel some sagging as you age (especially if you have larger breasts). You can keep a healthy weight to ensure the results last longer.
Bottom Line
A breast lift is a complex procedure, and only a certified, experienced surgeon should perform it. It will make all the difference in helping you achieve your goals.
