Need A Lift? What To Expect Before And After Your Breast Lift

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Breast augmentation is the number one cosmetic surgical procedure in the US. For women that don't want implants but want to enhance their natural breasts, breast lifts are the best option.

This article discusses what to expect from your breast lift procedure, before and after.

Breast Lift Services and Non-Surgical Procedures

A breast lift is a procedure that is intended to correct sagging or drooping breasts. Sagging breasts is a natural phenomenon that occurs as a result of aging, breastfeeding, injury, or extreme weight loss. A surgical breast lift, also called a mastopexy, involves an incision around the areola or vertically at the bottom of the breast to make breasts appear firmer and rounder.

Nonsurgical procedures are also available but the results are not as dramatic and don't last as long. One procedure, called Aptos threading, involves your plastic surgeon inserting barbed threads into your skin and tying them together to create lift. The threads last two years. Another procedure, called Caci Bust Treatment, was initially created to grow muscles after an injury. A surgeon uses an electropulse to stimulate and strengthen the chest muscles over several sessions. Results can be seen immediately.

Before: The Consultation

Most breast lift procedures can be performed in conjunction with breast augmentation, though many women opt to only go for the lift. Here is what to expect during your consultation:

• Medical history: Your doctor will review your medical history to determine if you have any underlying medical issues that could cause complications or to determine if you are well enough to undergo surgery. They will want to know about any current medications and lifestyle habits.
• Physical exam: Your doctor will examine your breasts to evaluate the nipple position, areola, and the general contour of your breasts. During this phase, your doctor may take pictures of your breasts for your medical records.
• Expectations: Your doctor will review what you can realistically expect with your surgery. This is the phase where they determine if you are also mentally well enough to have the procedure. Often doctors will turn clients down for having unrealistic expectations of plastic surgery commonly due to Body Dysmorphic Disorder. People with BDD often see problems with their bodies that are not actually there.

After: Results and Healing

After your surgery, some discomfort is normal. Here's what to expect:

• Post-procedure: After your procedure, you will have some swelling, pain, and bruising for about two weeks. You may experience numbness in your breasts and areolas for an additional six weeks.
• Aftercare: Your doctor will be able to tell you when it is okay to resume regular activities like showering, sex, and bending and lifting. You'll likely have drainage tubes that will be removed after a few days. Your doctor will also give you a surgical support bra that you must wear at all times for a few days before switching to a soft support bra until your breasts are healed.
• Scarring: The amount of scarring you develop will depend on genetics and aftercare. Your doctor will be able to provide advice on minimizing scarring as well as suggest topical creams and gels. Your stitches should be removed or dissolved after about two weeks.

After a breast lift, you can expect your breasts to be a bit smaller. Over time your breasts will continue to settle naturally. Whether surgical or non, a breast lift can be a great confidence boost for many women. Consult with an experienced surgeon today to find the best procedure for you.

For more information, reach out to a clinic like Center for Cosmetic Surgery: Sassan Alavi MD.

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10 July 2020