Breast Lift known as Mastopexy.
Most women apart from a lucky few will develop droopiness of the breasts. It is inevitable with age. Factors such as pull of gravity on the heaviness of breasts, pregnancy, breastfeeding, removal of breast implants, smoking and weight loss play a significant role.
The good news is advancement in medical science has now made it possible to negotiate even with age to look younger! Mastopexy is the solution to the quest for firmer and perky bosoms. (Breast lift operation) which is a surgical procedure to raise the droopy boobs. In addition to lifting the breasts the areola (pigmented skin around the nipple) may have to be reduced in size. If the breasts are small to start with or have lost volume following pregnancy, it is possible to combine an augmentation with breast lift.
Before and After Breast Lift Mastopexy
Before
After
Is there a best time to have a Breast Lift?
It is best to defer breast lift operation if you intend to have more children, as further pregnancy may undo the results of mastopexy. However, this surgical procedure poses no specific risks to pregnancy, nor should there be any difficulty with breast-feeding.
Breast lift is done under a general anesthesia and involves an overnight hospital stay. Drains will be inserted into the breasts and are usually removed in 24 hours. The ensuing scar depends on the amount of skin which needs to be removed and may be just around the areola the areola or a “lolly pop shaped” or “Anchor shaped”
The Mastopexy Procedure
Pain Control: Generally after breast lift you will have mild pain and this usually responds well to paracetamol or co-codomal. Please do not take aspirin or voltarol as this may cause bleeding/haematoma formation. You will be given a supply of pain relief medications on discharge.
Antibiotics: Following breast lift you do not need antibiotics, but will be considered if there is a risk of wound infection.
Wound dressings: The surgical wounds will be covered with protective dressings and should be left undisturbed if they remain clean until you’re seen in the clinic. However if the dressing is stained with discharge you will need to report to the hospital nurse or your GP’s practice as soon as possible.
Support Bra: You will need to wear a good fitting support bra day and night for 6 weeks to maximise the benefits of the operation.
Rest and Relaxation: It will be helpful to have someone with you for the first few days after returning home. Rest and relax for until you attend the post-operative clinic visit, which is usually between 7 to 10 days.
Driving and work: Do not drive or operate machinery for 2 weeks.
Exercise: Resume gentle exercise after 2 weeks and avoid strenuous exercise for 6 weeks. Avoid stretching of upper torso and arms for a minimum of 3 weeks to prevent wound problems.
And finally you will need to wait for 3 to 6 months before you can appreciate the new shape of your breasts. Most of the swelling and bruise will resolve in 3 to 4 weeks, but the remolding of the breast will continue for few more months. You will need to be aware that the shape and size of the breasts will vary with fluctuations in your body weight, future pregnancy and with time. Maintaining a steady weight, abstaining from smoking and regular use of well fitting support bra will delay the process of sagging.
FAQs
Will I be in pain following surgery?
You will be given adequate pain killers and should not experience bad pain. Mild discomfort is to be expected particularly when you stretch your arms and work the muscles around the implant but this will soon settle. If it continues more than a couple of weeks you should consult your specialist.
Will I be given antibiotics?
Yes you will be given antibiotics at the commencement of the operation and may be continued for few days after the procedures. It is very important that you inform your specialist if you have any particular allergies to antibiotics.
Will I have dressing on my wound?
Yes the surgical wounds will be covered with an occlusive dressing and this should be kept clean and dry until the consultant or the nurse checks the wound in the clinic which is usually between 7 to 10 days time. You should report if there is any spotting on the dressing or discharge from the wound.
Do I need to wear a bra following surgery?
Yes you will be recommended a special support bra to allow the implant to settle in the right place, and you are encouraged to wear them for 6weeks after the procedure.
Do I need to take time off work?
This depends on the nature of you work. If the work you do is not physically demanding generally a week to 10 days should be sufficient to recover, however if your work requires strenuous effort then it is best to take at least 4 weeks off from work.
Can I drive following my surgery?
Yes, your specialist will check the wound at your first post –op visit to the clinic and will confirm that it should be ok for you drive. Generally it is advisable until the wound has healed which should take about 2weeks.
Can I exercise following surgery?
It is best to avoid strenuous exercise until the first few weeks after the procedure, however you can do gentle walking while you are recovering.