If you are satisfied with the size of your breasts but wish to restore a more youthful contour, you may be a candidate for a breast lift procedure, also referred to as a mastopexy. If, however, you have lost a considerable amount of breast tissue volume, which is more commonly the case, it will most likely be recommended that you consider having breast implants placed at the same time of your breast lift surgery. Breast lift surgery is available at the Ottawa, Ontario, office of Dr. James Lacey. Dr. James Lacey will work closely with you to determine what type of surgery is right for you. To learn more about breast lift surgery, contact us.
About the Procedure
This type of procedure is most commonly performed on an outpatient basis utilizing a general anesthetic. There are three particular variations to the incisions used for breast lift surgery, referred to as the extended, vertical or periareolar approaches. The traditional or extended method involves lifting the breast using 3 incisions: one around the areola, the second vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease under the breast and the third along the natural curve of the breast crease. Having removed excess skin, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position. Skin that was located above the nipple pre-surgery is pulled down. Together, these two maneuvers give a new shape to the breast. Liposuction may also be employed to contour under the arm. The type of incision you choose and the extent of your procedure can affect your overall treatment cost.
While a breast lift can be performed at any age it is recommended that the procedure be undertaken only when breast development has been completed and following childbearing/breast-feeding years. Although some women may decide to have their breasts lifted before having children, you should discuss such plans with Dr. James Lacey prior to making definite decisions.
Is This Right For Me?
In assessing you as a candidate for breast lift surgery, Dr. James Lacey will carefully check the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin and the positioning of your nipples and areola. If you are overweight, it might be suggested that you stabilize your weight before having this type of surgery.
The vertical lift requires an incision around the new nipple and areolar complex while the periareolar approach limits the scar or incision to around the nipple and areola region alone (Diagrams A, B, C). The decision of which approach to take involves the combined assessment of the patient’s wishes, amount of breast tissue remaining and most importantly the skin quality. The decision of whether or not breast augmentation is required at the same time often dictates which surgical scar will be recommended.
In general since the nipples and areolas remain attached to the breast tissue, sensation in this area is preserved. While breast-feeding may still be possible, this cannot be guaranteed.
Although complications from this surgery are limited, expectations, some degree of asymmetry, residual scarring, problems associated with breast implant devises and recurrence of skin laxity as well as all other potential concerns need to be discussed with Dr. James Lacey prior to proceeding with your surgery.
Several days after surgery you will be able to move about comfortably and you will be instructed to wear a support bra for a few weeks, until the swelling and discoloration of your breasts diminishes. Incisions will be red at first and will stay this way for many months following surgery.
After breast lift surgery, it is often possible to return to work within several days although obviously this will vary between patients. Quite often, normal activities can be resumed after several weeks. You may, however, continue to experience some mild discomfort during the first 8 weeks.
Contact Us
To schedule a consultation with Dr. James Lacey, contact us today.
