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Breast Surgery > Mastopexy (Breast Lift) |
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Factors such as pregnancy, nursing,
and the force of gravity change a
woman's breast. Many women seek
mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing
have left them with stretched skin and
less volume in their breasts. As the
skin loses its elasticity, the breasts
often lose their shape and firmness and
begin to sag. Breast lift, or mastopexy,
is a surgical procedure designed to
raise and reshape sagging breasts—at
least, for a time. (No surgery can
permanently delay the effects of
gravity.) Mastopexy can also reduce the size of
the areola, the darker skin surrounding
the nipple. If your breasts are small
and have lost volume—for example, after
pregnancy—breast implants can be
inserted at the time of mastopexy in
order to increase both the firmness and
size. The best candidates for mastopexy are
healthy, emotionally stable women who
are realistic about what this operation
can accomplish. A breast lift can
enhance your appearance and your
self-image.
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Are You a Good
Candidate?
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- If you have sagging breasts due
to past pregnancies, genetics, or
aging.
- If the sagging is too great to
be treated with an implant alone.
- If your nipple-areola (pigmented
areas around nipples) are enlarged.
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Intended Results
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- An elevated, more youthful
breast contour.
- Nipple-areola reduced in size
and repositioned at the correct
height and position.
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Procedure Description
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- The procedure is done on an
outpatient basis under general
anesthesia.
- The design of incisions can
vary, but usually include incisions
around the nipple-areola and in the
crease under the breast.
- The insertion of an implant as
well, may or may not be advisable.
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Recuperation and
Healing
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- A soft "tube-top" netting is
used instead of a bra for 10 to 14
days.
- Sutures are usually absorbable
and dissolve on their own.
- Initial discomfort is readily
controlled with oral medication.
- Light activities may be started
at 7 to 10 days.
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Other Options
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Insurance Guidelines
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- This procedure is considered
cosmetic and is not covered by
insurance. The patient is
responsible for the full payment.
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Note
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- The specific risk and
suitability of the procedure for a
given individual can be determined
only at the time of consultation.
All surgical procedures have some
degree of risk. Minor complications
that do not affect the outcome occur
occasionally. Major complications
are unusual. Such possible
complications are best reviewed with
your plastic surgeon prior to
surgery.
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Photographs
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- No photographs are currently available
for this procedure.
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