Women who experience loss of volume and sagging of their breasts are ideal candidates for a breast lift procedure. These changes occur as part of the normal aging process and are common following weight loss as well. Using inconspicuous incisions, the breasts and nipples are raised to a more youthful position on the chest. This procedure is frequently combined with augmentation to allow breast enlargement and increased projection following the lift procedure. A breast lift is usually performed under a light general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The procedure usually lasts from 1 to 1 1/2 hours and patients leave the private operating facility with only a light bandage on each breast. A swift and uneventful recovery following breast lift allows most patients to return to work within a few days following surgery.
What can breast lift do for me?
Every woman who considers having a breast lift has her own personal reasons. Most common of these is to simply feel better about themselves and stimulate a renewed sense of femininity and personal satisfaction. These feelings are experienced daily soon after breast lift. They begin in the morning when looking in the bathroom mirror and continue throughout the day by seeing and feeling how they feel in clothes or a bathing suit.
How are the breasts lifted?
Breast lift is tailored to suit the needs of each patient. Some patients need only a minor repositioning of their nipples while others need their breasts both lifted and reduced in volume. Incisions are located around the areola and in the lower breast only. The pattern and position of the incisions are customs designed to meet the needs and goals of each patient. In most cases, the nipples are raised to a more youthful position on the breast and excess breast skin and tissue are removed. All incisions are closed with sutures that are buried, dissolve by themselves and are not visible to the patient. Patients leave for home with only a light dressing in place that Dr. Zelt will remove on the first postoperative visit a few days later.
Where is the procedure performed?
Breast lift procedures are performed in one of two local accredited private operating facilities. Rarely, this procedure is done in the hospital operating room and may require an overnight stay.
How long does the procedure take?
In most cases, this procedure takes 1 to 2 hours depending on the complexity of the surgical plan.
What kind of anesthesia will be required?
General anesthesia is the preferred method of anesthesia.
Can I have my breasts enlarged at the same time?
Yes, patients often have a combined breast lift and augmentation procedure. Breast enlargement will add approximately 30 to 45 minutes on to the lift procedure.
What will my breasts look like after surgery?
Following breast lift, many patients will notice their breasts are slightly higher and downward pointing than expected. This is normal and they will fall into a more normal position and transform into the desired pleasing form in the weeks following surgery.
When can I resume my normal activities?
Most patients can return to light activity and work within a few days following surgery. Return to normal physical activity, including sports, is permitted after 4 weeks.
Are there any risks to breast lift?
Generally, breast lift is a very safe and reliable procedure. During your office consultation, Dr. Zelt will discuss with you the associated risks and complications. Fortunately, most are very uncommon and the vast majority of patients enjoy an uneventful surgery and recovery period.
Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.