A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes the breasts. It can also reduce the size of the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). Many women seek mastopexy following weight loss, pregnancy, lactation or menopause.

There are various degrees of sagging (ptosis):

Mild ptosis: Nipples that have dropped to the level of the breast crease
Moderate ptosis: Nipples have dropped below the level of the breast crease
Advanced ptosis: Nipples are pointing toward the floor

There are a number of possible surgical techniques based on the degree of ptosis, the areola, nipple position, breast volume, and the amount of excess skin. Mild ptosis may be corrected by breast augmentation. Additional improvement may be made by removing excess skin from around the areola. Moderate ptosis may only warrant an incision around the areola. Advanced ptosis requires an additional vertical incision. The incision goes from the areola to the breast fold. If ptosis is severe, a third incision underneath the breast may be made.

The procedure may be performed under either local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The operation takes about two hours, and you will normally return home the same day.

During mastopexy, the surgeon makes an incision which is normally in a keyhole pattern: a circle around the aerola and two incisions down the breast which will be closed to form one line. The surgeon then repositions the nipple and areola to a higher position and removes excess skin from beneath the breast. Closing the remaining skin lifts the breast mound to a higher position and reshapes the breast. No breast tissue is your removed, so you will remain the same size, although your breasts will seem larger because the skin is tightened. If you choose, a breast implant may be placed at the same time (see breast augmentation). Sutures close the incisions.

Wait until you are done having children before undergoing a breast lift. Ptosis is likely to occur again after pregnancy.

After Surgery

On the day of surgery your chest will be bruised and swollen and you may feel pain or be nauseated. Pain medication will be prescribed.

You will wear an elastic bandage or surgical bra over dressings for the first few days. The incisions may be taped to reduce scarring. Then, you will wear an ace bandage or sports bra worn another 1-4 weeks. Do not wear an underwire bras during recovery.

Recovery Tips:

• Keep ice packs applied to your chest on the day of your surgery.
  
• Sleep in an upright position. Do not sleep on your stomach for the first two weeks after surgery.
  
• Moisturize the breasts daily (do not apply lotion to any taped areas)
  
• To avoid unnecessary swelling or bleeding, do not bend over, strain, exercise or do any other activities that could increase pressure in your chest during the first week.