Breast Lift or mastopexy patients who have had weight loss or after pregnancy may experience droopy breasts due to loss of breast tissue elasticity. These patients will need breast lift and if there has been loss of volume, breast implants as well.
The Cost of a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
The cost of breast lift depends on the type of and whether or not you are going to have a breast implant at the same time. The type of implant can affect the cost as well. Silicone implants are generally more expensive than the saline implants. The breast lift itself could also be a minimal type, such as crescent lift or more extensive as in anchor breast lift or inverted-T breast lift. Anesthesia and operating room charges will be added. These cost could range from $4500- $10,000.
How does the scar look like?
- This depends on the amount of droopiness of the breasts. Minimally droopy breasts require minimal lift and therefore small scar which is usually on top of the areola, on the border of the dark areolar skin and it is hardly noticeable.This type of breast lift is called Crescent Lift.
- In Vertical Breast Lift, the scar looks like a lollipop whereby it surrounds the nipple-areolar complex and extends vertically downward.
- The third type of breast lift is called Inverted T or Anchor scar or Wise pattern. The scar is similar to vertical lift with a horizontal segment along the inflammatory folds.
Once you are evaluated during your consultation, an accurate diagnosis can be made and an appropriate technique suitable to your condition is recommended.
Would I have a full upper breast poles?
This is a major concern among patients who have lost the fullness and youthful shape of their breasts. Even though with the above techniques, the breast tissues are lifted, in majority of patients due to loss of elasticity of the breast tissue, the loss of upper fullness returns after several months and therefore breast augmentation at the same time is recommended. This will allow restoration of the upper fullness of the breasts. Occasionally, in patients with excessive droopiness, a special technique can be used to achieve upper fullness without breast implants.This is achieved with what is known as inferior pedicle flap technique, which we secure up close to the shoulder area and therefore achieve the desire affect without implants.
Is there a need for a drain placement?
Usually no. On very rare occasions a single drain is placed in each side and removed a day or so later.
How long is the recovery period?
This will initially takes several weeks but majority of patients take one to two weeks off of work. Complete healing is achieved in 6 to 9 months. Usually, a general anesthetic is administered, so that you will be asleep throughout the procedure. When surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. In many instances, small drain tubes will have been placed in your breasts to help avoid the accumulation of fluids. Gauze dressings will be placed on your breasts and covered with an elastic bandage or surgical bra.
How will I look and feel initially?
The day after surgery, you will be encouraged to get out of bed for short periods of time. After several days, you will be able to move about more comfortably. Straining, bending and lifting must be avoided, however, since these activities might cause increased swelling or even bleeding. You may be instructed to sleep on your back to avoid pressure on your breasts.
Any surgical drains will be removed a day or two after surgery, at which time your dressings may also be changed or removed. You will be instructed to wear a support bra for a few weeks, until the swelling and discoloration of your breasts diminishes. Generally, stitches will be removed in stages over a period of approximately three weeks, beginning about one week after surgery.
You may notice that you feel less sensation in the nipple and areola areas. This usually is temporary. It may, however, take weeks, months or even more than a year before sensation returns to normal. Your breasts may also require some time to assume a more natural shape. Incisions will initially be red or pink in color. They will remain this way for many months following surgery.
Where will my surgery be performed?
Your Breast Lift procedure will be performed in OC Cosmetic Surgery Clinique. The environment at OC Cosmetic Surgery Clinique caters to the comfort and security of our clients, from the accommodating reception area to our modern surgical office. Utilizing only the very best technology in the field of cosmetic surgery, all equipments and tools our staff and doctors use are state-of-the-art. Have a look at other Breast Lift overview topic and detail to learn more about Breast Lift answers to your most probable questions regarding Breast Lift.
