Breast Lift
(Mastopexy)
Overview
Breast lift surgery helps women who have sagging breasts by removing excess skin from the chest for a younger, shapelier bust line. Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, uses tightening techniques to lift the breasts and elevate the breasts to a higher position on the chest. Pregnancy, nursing, aging,and weight loss are some of the most common causes of sagging breast tissue and skin. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paresi at Contour Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Downers Grove, IL have performed many breast surgeries, including breast lifts and breast augmentations with a breast lift. The results of a breast lift can improve a woman’s appearance and last for many years.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Results
Surgical Technique
The type of incision used during a breast lift procedure will vary depending on the degree of lift and whether implants will be placed during the surgery. If implants are a part of the procedure, whether silicone or saline, they are placed under the pectoralis muscle. This method provides additional support and helps to keep the breasts in a higher position for a longer period of time. In situations where a larger implant is desired, a supportive tissue matrix may be used as a sling to hold the implants in place.
Incision Types
The degree of lift will determine how many incisions are needed and where they will be placed. Once the incisions are made, excess skin and tissue are removed and the nipple and areola are repositioned for a natural placement. The sutures during this procedure are placed deep in the breast wall to secure and hold the breast up firmly. There are several incision placements to consider:
- Around the curvature of the areola (the tissue immediately surrounding the nipple)
- Vertically on the bottom of the areola, down to the crease under the breast
- Horizontally beneath the breast following the natural crease
After Surgery
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) FAQs
Breast Lift or Implants?
Nipple/Areola Placement?
During a breast lift procedure, the nipple and areola will be placed in a location on the breast that is natural and proportionate. The goal during this surgery is to reduce the size of the areola (the area surrounding the nipple) so it looks balanced with the new breast size and shape.
What About Scarring?
Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery may also be combined with a breast lift to help a patient achieve the size and shape she desires. This surgery is very similar to a lift, but with the added step of removing more breast tissue in conjunction with excess skin. More information on this procedure can be found on the breast reduction page.
Still have a question?
At Contour Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choices. Contact us today to schedule your consultation — your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here!