What Is a Mastopexy Surgery is a common question many women ask when they notice changes in their breasts over time. A mastopexy, also known as breast lift surgery, is a cosmetic surgery that raises and reshapes the breasts when they begin to sag due to aging, pregnancy, gravity, or weight fluctuations.
A breast lift focuses on improving breast position and firmness rather than changing breast size. Dr. Rodriguez carefully removes excess skin and reshapes the breast tissue during the surgical procedure to create a more youthful and balanced appearance.
Introduction to Breast Lift Surgery
A breast lift, also called mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to restore the natural shape and position of the breasts. As time passes, many women experience sagging breasts, stretched breast skin, and nipples that sit lower on the chest due to gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
The procedure removes excess breast skin and tightens the remaining skin to improve firmness. Breast lift surgery can be combined with breast augmentation or breast reduction to adjust breast size when needed. A board certified plastic surgeon performs the surgery to help minimize breast lift risks and improve long-term breast lift results.
Reasons for Getting a Breast Lift
Breast changes are a normal part of life, but they can affect comfort and confidence. Many women consider a breast lift when their breasts sag or breasts fall lower on the chest.
Common reasons include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Weight fluctuations or significant weight loss
- Aging and loss of skin elasticity
- Breast asymmetry or uneven shape
Women with heavier breasts may seek relief from strain, while women with smaller breasts may want improved shape and position. For many women, a breast lift restores confidence in clothing, bathing suits, and daily activities.
Preparing for the Procedure
Preparing for breast lift surgery is an important step in achieving safe and predictable results. Your plastic surgeon and healthcare team will review your full medical history, including any family history or history of breast cancer.
Preparation typically includes:
- A baseline mammogram when recommended
- Reviewing medications, blood thinners, and herbal supplements
- A physical exam to assess breast skin, nipple position, and breast ptosis
Surgeons prefer patients to be at a healthy weight before surgery, as weight loss or weight gain after surgery can affect long-term breast lift results.
Understanding the Surgical Procedure
The breast lift procedure involves making one or more incisions to remove excess skin and reposition the nipple and areola. In some cases, the entire areola is reshaped or reduced to better match the new breast contour.
During surgery, the plastic surgeon reshapes the breast tissue to restore firmness and symmetry. Care is taken to preserve blood supply, blood flow, and nipple sensation whenever possible. Surgical tape or sutures are used to support the remaining skin during healing.
What to Expect During the Surgical Procedure
Breast lift surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. General anesthesia is used to keep patients comfortable throughout surgery.
During the procedure, the surgical team carefully monitors blood supply and vital signs. After surgery, patients are fitted with a surgical support bra, and in some cases small drains are placed to drain fluid and reduce swelling. Clear instructions for pain medication and wound care are provided before discharge.
Breast Lift Recovery
Breast lift recovery occurs gradually over several weeks. During the early healing phase, patients may experience swelling, tightness, and soreness in the surgical area.
Key recovery guidelines include:
- Wearing a surgical support bra as directed
- Taking prescribed pain medication
- Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise
Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, while final breast lift results continue to improve over several months.
Frequently Asked Questions: What Is a Mastopexy Surgery?
How do I know if I need a breast lift surgery?
If your breasts sag, breasts fall lower, or nipples point downward, you may be a candidate. A physical exam with a plastic surgeon can determine the degree of breast ptosis.
Is a breast lift considered major surgery?
Yes, it is considered a major surgery because it involves general anesthesia and reshaping breast tissue. However, it is commonly performed as a safe outpatient procedure.
Will a breast lift change my breast size?
A breast lift focuses on shape, not size. Breasts may appear smaller due to excess skin removal or larger if combined with breast implants.
How long does breast lift recovery take?
Initial recovery takes a few weeks. Final breast lift results develop gradually over several months as swelling resolves.
What Is a Donut Mastopexy?
A donut mastopexy is a breast lift procedure used for mild sagging breasts. It involves a circular incision around the entire areola to remove a small amount of excess skin and gently lift and reshape the breast, often with minimal visible scarring.
Schedule Your Breast Lift or Mastopexy Consultation
Ready to take the next step toward firmer, more youthful-looking breasts? Scheduling a Breast Lift or Mastopexy consultation with Dr. Rodriguez allows you to discuss your goals, review your options, and receive a personalized treatment plan at San Diego Plastic Surgery Center.
During your visit, Dr. Rodriguez will evaluate your breast shape and skin, explain the procedure in detail, and answer all your questions so you can move forward with confidence.
