Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
The shape of breast changes over time, often for the worse. Pregnancy, breast feeding, age, looser skin, and gravity all take their toll on the shape and firmness of the breast. You may have complaints of a loss of upper breast fullness, a lack of firmness, your nipples pointing downward, or your breast hanging below the breast crease. A breast lift (also known as a mastopexy) will both raise and shape the breast to be perkier and more supple. There are many different types of breast lifts available, and Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn have performed hundreds of these procedures for their patients – and they will tailor the procedure for you as an individual. During your consultation, they will analyze your breast shape, skin elasticity, and volume. Depending on your wants and desires, you may need just a simple lift. Others who have lost volume or started with smaller breasts, an implant may be needed in conjunction with the breast lift to give the desired shape and volume.
Types of Breast Lifts
The periareolar lift, or donut mastopexy, involves a scar just around the circumference of the areola. This is only used when a modest lift is needed. It can also be used to decrease the overall diameter of an enlarged areola, to a more aesthetically pleasing size.
The vertical lift, or short-scar, or lollipop mastopexy is the most common lift which we perform. It allows a significant reshaping of the breast while also allowing for a powerful lifting effect. The end result is a breast that is more firm, shapelier, and perkier. Sutures are placed internally and anchored to the chest wall to help hold the shape and lift. The scar runs around the areola, and up and down on the breast in a lollipop shape. These scars will flatten and fade over time.
The inferior pedicle or Wise technique is a technique typically used when the breasts are particularly large or especially pendulous. This will leave you with an anchor style scar, so in addition to the scar around the areola and vertically, there is a scar hidden along the breast fold. Very rarely is this technique used, only if your anatomy determines you to be an appropriate candidate
Lift with an implant. If your breasts are smaller than you desire, an implant will give you the additional volume you’re looking for, especially in the upper part of the breast – the area most affected by volume loss after nursing, for example. It will also allow for increased projection, and a shapelier, tighter bust. The implants are often placed below the muscle, to allow good muscle coverage over the implant, to help support it in position.
During your breast lift consultation at our Las Vegas or Henderson office, we will review your goals and the possible ways of achieving them. Call our office today at (702) 948-7595 to schedule your complimentary appointment.
Breast Lift Recovery
The surgery lasts about one to two hours. Recovery time is two weeks.