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About the procedure Breast Lift/Mastopexy

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Disclaimer:

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors, including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Some images may have the patient’s tattoos, jewellery or other identifiable items blurred to protect patient identities.

What is a Breast Lift/Mastopexy?

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that adjusts the position and shape of the breasts. This procedure can be suitable for patients experiencing breast descent (ptosis), which can occur due to factors such as ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight changes. A breast lift (mastopexy) involves the removal of excess skin and reshaping breast tissue. In some cases, adjustments to the nipple and areola may also be made to encourage good proportions with the repositioned breast tissue.

A breast lift (mastopexy) does not increase or decrease breast volume but focuses on altering breast position and shape. For patients seeking changes to both position and volume, the procedure can be combined with breast augmentation mammoplasty using implants. Alternatively, for those looking to reduce breast size while addressing breast descent, a breast reduction mammoplasty may be recommended. The approach to a breast lift (mastopexy) is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and surgical goals, with a thorough consultation required to determine the most suitable technique.

Our Philosophy on Breast Lift/Mastopexy

At Dr Eddie Cheng’s clinic, breast lift (mastopexy) procedures are approached with an emphasis on personalised care and open communication. Each patient’s goals are carefully discussed to gain a clear understanding of the specific adjustments they are considering. The consultation process provides detailed information about the procedure, including the aspects that can be modified, the recovery process, and potential risks. Since each patient’s anatomy is unique, it is essential that they have realistic expectations about the surgical outcomes. The focus is on making adjustments that work in harmony with the patient’s natural body proportions. A tailored surgical plan is developed to support results that complement the patient’s natural anatomy while maintaining the integrity of the breast tissue and overall appearance.

The process begins with a detailed consultation where the surgeon discusses available options, explains each step of the procedure, and provides information to help the patient set realistic expectations. Patient safety and informed decision-making are prioritised throughout the process, ensuring that each patient understands the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. The approach focuses on making adjustments that complement the patient’s existing breast structure, addressing shape and position while considering overall body proportions.

Different Methods of Performing Breast Lift/Mastopexy

There are several techniques used in breast lift (mastopexy) surgery, with the choice depending on the degree of breast tissue repositioning required, the patient’s anatomical features, and the specific changes they are considering. The most commonly performed techniques include the periareolar, vertical, and inverted-T (anchor) methods. Each approach involves different incision patterns and allows for varying degrees of tissue adjustment and reshaping.

Periareolar (Donut) Mastopexy:

This technique involves an incision around the perimeter of the areola and is suited for patients needing minor adjustments to breast position. The periareolar mastopexy reshapes the breast while repositioning the nipple and surrounding tissue. It may be suitable for patients seeking a subtle change in breast shape and contour, with incisions that follow the natural transition of the areola.

Vertical (Lollipop) Mastopexy:

The vertical mastopexy includes an incision around the areola and a vertical incision extending down to the breast crease. This method can be suitable for patients requiring moderate adjustments to breast position and shape. The additional vertical incision allows for greater tissue reshaping and repositioning, supporting structural changes while maintaining overall proportion.

Inverted-T (Anchor) Mastopexy:

The anchor lift involves incisions around the areola, extending vertically down the breast and horizontally along the breast fold. This technique is typically used for patients requiring more extensive adjustments, as it allows for significant reshaping of the breast tissue and removal of excess skin. While this method involves more extensive incisions, it typically provides the greatest degree of repositioning and contouring.

Each technique is selected based on the individual’s needs and anatomical considerations, with the goal of repositioning the breast tissue while maintaining proportions that complement the patient’s body structure.

Reasons Patients Choose to Have Mastopexy

Patients may choose to undergo mastopexy for various reasons, often due to changes in breast shape and position resulting from pregnancy, weight fluctuations, ageing, or genetic factors. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to changes in breast tissue, which may alter breast position over time. Similarly, significant weight loss can affect breast volume and skin elasticity by reducing the amount of fat and glandular tissue in the breasts.

Another common reason for considering mastopexy is asymmetry between the breasts. Some patients may have one breast positioned lower than the other, and a breast lift (mastopexy) can help target this asymmetry by repositioning and reshaping the breast tissue. The procedure may also be an option for those who want to adjust the nipple position or reduce the size of the areola, particularly if these changes have occurred over time.

Mastopexy is a procedure tailored to individual needs, with the surgical approach based on factors such as breast size, skin elasticity, and the extent of repositioning required. A thorough consultation allows patients to discuss their goals, understand the potential changes, and determine whether a breast mastopexy aligns with their expectations.

Procedure gallery View our patient results

Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty Results

Breast Reduction Results

Breast Implant Revision Results

Breast Implant Removal and Breast Lift Results

Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors, including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Some images may have the patient’s tattoos, jewellery or other identifiable items blurred to protect patient identities.

Aftercare and Recovery

After a breast lift (mastopexy), patients are advised to wear a supportive surgical bra to help manage swelling and provide stability as the tissues heal. Avoiding heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and movements that put a strain on the chest area is recommended in the early weeks of recovery. While many patients can return to light activities within one to two weeks, the overall recovery timeline varies based on individual healing rates, skin elasticity, and the extent of the procedure. Full recovery, including the final positioning of the breasts, may take several months.

Swelling and bruising are common in the initial healing phase and should gradually subside over time. Patients are provided with post-operative care instructions, which include guidance on managing discomfort with prescribed medications and proper care of incision sites to reduce the risk of infection. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential for monitoring healing progress and addressing any concerns that may arise during recovery.

The results of mastopexy become more noticeable as the swelling decreases and the tissues settle. However, individual factors such as skin quality, healing response, and post-surgical care all contribute to the final outcome. Maintaining a stable weight and following the surgeon’s recommendations can help support the long-term stability of the changes made during surgery.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast lift/mastopexy comes with certain risks, including:

  • Infection at the incision sites
  • Scarring, which varies based on the incision technique used
  • Changes in breast or nipple sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
  • Haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
  • Breast asymmetry or unevenness in shape
  • Risk of complications related to anaesthesia
  • Breast tissue necrosis (rare, but possible in severe cases)
  • Difficulty breastfeeding, though this is usually temporary
  • Need for revision surgery
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma) around the incision sites

 
It is important to discuss these potential risks thoroughly with the surgeon during the consultation phase to ensure that the patient has a complete understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes. Through careful planning, appropriate technique selection, and diligent aftercare, many of these risk.

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