Over time, changes can occur to the breasts that can leave a woman feeling less than satisfied with her appearance. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to drooping breasts, which is often exacerbated by skin laxity related to the aging process. Sagging in this area creates an aged appearance that can make women self-conscious about their bodies.
A breast lift or mastopexy is a surgery that raises and firms the breasts by tightening tissue and eliminating excess skin to reshape and support the new breast contour. This procedure is completely customized to the unique profile of the patient with the goal of creating a naturally more youthful appearance. Dr. Sharma is experienced in breast lift procedures and will work with you to determine the best surgical plan for your needs and aesthetic goals.
Women in good health who do not smoke or are willing to quit for the surgery tend to be the best candidates for a breast lift. The procedure works best for those who have finished having children as subsequent pregnancies could alter the positive effects of the surgery. A breast lift can be used to address the following concerns:
If you are currently happy with the size of your breasts, a breast lift alone may achieve your goals. However, if you have lost volume, would like to add fullness to the breasts, or reduce breast size, Dr. Sharma can add procedures to your surgery to help you obtain full results without additional anesthesia or downtime.
Dr. Sharma will adjust the techniques for your breast lift surgery according to the amount of correction you are requesting and the results you hope to achieve. An initial incision is made around the nipple within the pigmented area known as the areola. The periareolar incision allows for access to the internal breast tissue to make minor corrections without noticeable scarring after the fact. If more lift is required, a second incision can be added down the lower portion of the breast. This formation is known as a lollipop incision, due to its resemblance in shape to the candy.
Some patients opt for additional procedures during their breast lift to further enhance their outcome. Common options include:
Dr. Sharma and his nurse will take ample time during your initial consultation to discuss all your aesthetic goals and ensure the surgery you choose meets as many of them as possible. Rest assured your procedure will be customized to your specifications in every way so that you enjoy satisfying results for many years after your breast lift.
Dr. Sharma will perform your breast lift on an outpatient basis, which means you will be able to go home a few hours after your procedure. Patients may have local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the preference of the patient and Dr. Sharma. The incisions will be placed as discussed during your consultation and Dr. Sharma will remove excess skin to create a firmer shape while lifting the breasts to a perkier position on the chest wall. If necessary, the nipples and areola will be repositioned and possibly reduced to create a natural, proportionate look.
If augmentation is added, Dr. Sharma will place the implants you chose at your consultation into the breast pocket as well. Placement may be over the chest muscle and under the breast tissue, or underneath a portion of the chest muscle as well. If a reduction is performed with the lift, Dr. Sharma will remove the necessary skin and tissue to create a more proportionate breast size. The duration of the procedure will vary based on whether additional enhancement is done. Most breast lifts take anywhere from one to three hours to complete.
For the first two or three days after breast lift surgery, you are apt to be sore and swollen. Dr. Sharma will provide prescription pain medication to keep you comfortable and advise you to use ice packs or cold compresses to manage swelling. You will also have a surgical bra in place to protect and support the breasts while they heal. You will likely feel like returning to work and other activities within one week unless your job is unusually strenuous. Vigorous activity and exercise should wait for three to four weeks, to give the breasts ample time to recover.
A breast lift, whether performed alone or in conjunction with other breast enhancement, will produce noticeable results that will last for many years. It is possible that you may eventually seem some drooping in the breasts in the future due to the natural aging process. At this time, additional treatment is a possibility to maintain your youthful appearance. To learn more about the benefits of a breast lift, contact Dr. Sharma at Plastic Surgery Austin today at 512-324-2765.
I had a cut tendon that was not initially diagnosed (elsewhere). I was in surgery less than 24 hrs after seeing Dr. Sharma. The coordination with Dell Setton UT, covid precautions, and Dr. Sharma’s team was fast and smooth. The surgery went great and I am on the way to being able to use my thumb again! The follow up with Occupational Therapy is excellent. So many people helping me along is a humbling experience.
Dr Sharma and Sarah Ellis are both amazing and helpful. Dr Sharma cares as does his staff and he beyond does his homework. Love this medical group!
I felt like I was taken care of like their family. My specialty needs were met, and they are providing aftercare exactly the same way. My special care continues, and I am so happy to share my experiences with everyone!!
He explained everything about the steps that I need to do before the surgery, and my sister and I felt like he was very caring and compassionate to my needs and really wanting to help me out and get my questions answered about what I will be facing, and overall I felt like my dream and future will become a reality for me. And an answer to my prayers and having a hope for a better life and great outcome for my future.
Individual attention concerning my welfare was over and above my expectations. Best medical care you could ask for. Thank you DR. SHARMA AND YOUR TEAM!
Contact our office to schedule a private consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Sanjay K. Sharma, M.D., F.A.C.S.
