Breast Lift Procedures
Breast lift procedures are another aspect of Dr. Charles Slack's plastic surgery practice in Allen, Texas. A surgical procedure that is distinct from breast augmentation (enlargement) and breast reduction, a breast lift (mastopexy) is performed specifically to lift one or both:
- breasts that are pendulous (hanging) although their size is not an issue
- breasts that have lost firmness or volume (perhaps due to breastfeeding or weight loss)
- downward-pointing nipples and areolas (the pigmented area around the nipple)
Reasons to Have a Breast Lift
A breast lift may be appropriate when the breasts have lost their shape or tone after multiple pregnancies, weight gain and loss, breastfeeding, and the simple passage of time. Drooping breasts may be an inherited trait. In addition, it is not at all uncommon for a woman's breasts to differ in size, firmness or contour, and a breast lift procedure can be performed on one breast to bring it "in sync" with the other.
Alone or in Combination with Another Procedure
There are multiple breast lift techniques, and a breast lift procedure may be performed alone or combined with a breast augmentation (lifting and enlarging the breasts) or with a breast reduction (reducing the size of the breasts and lifting them). A tummy tuck or other body contouring surgery may also be performed in conjunction with a breast lift, depending on the patient's needs.
Thus there are numerous possible techniques or versions of breast lift surgery, and Dr. Slack has years of accumulated knowledge, skills and experience to determine the best options for a patient, in concert with her desires and goals.
Each Patient's Unique Circumstances Are Considered
In fact, as a double-board-certified surgeon, Dr. Slack has performed thousands of plastic and cosmetic surgeries, and he knows that the most gratifying breast lift procedures begin with an extensive dialogue between the patient and her surgeon. He wants each patient to be completely comfortable describing her desires, and to fully understand every aspect of the surgical procedure(s) being considered. Each patient's safety, satisfaction and comfort are of paramount importance to him.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?
The appropriate candidates for a breast lift procedure are, in general:
- old enough to have completed their physical/breast development
- in good health
- at a body weight that is "final;" that is, they have lost unnecessary weight
Breast lift procedures are not usually covered by health insurance, although there may be exceptions such as when a breast reduction performed for health reasons is the main cause for the surgery to be covered. A discussion of this issue with Dr. Slack and your insurer will clarify the extent of your insurance coverage.
How Is a Breast Lift Accomplished?
A breast lift can be achieved with one, two or three incisions:
- one around the areola
- one that runs vertically from the bottom of the areola to the crease underneath the breast
- a horizontal incision under the breast, following the natural curve of the breast's crease
The incisions may differ depending on the size and shape of the breasts (and their nipples/areolas) and the extent of the breast skin and tissue to be revised.
After the incision(s), the appropriate amount of excess skin is removed, and the nipple and areola are moved higher. If the areola has stretched or is larger than desired, its size can be reduced. However, the nipple and areola are left attached to the underlying breast tissue, protecting both their sensation and the patient's ability to breastfeed.
If a breast augmentation is also being performed, implants will be inserted. With a breast reduction, more tissue will be removed. When the right lift and contour of the breast(s) have been achieved, the incisions are closed.
Recovery after a Breast Lift
After a breast lift procedure, the breasts are protected with bandages and possibly drainage tubes for a number of days. Some swelling and bruising can be expected, but these are temporary. Pain from the surgery can be managed with medication prescribed by Dr. Slack. Within a week or two, stitches can be removed, and a return to physically undemanding work can soon follow. A few weeks after a breast surgery, a patient can gradually return to her pre-surgery lifestyle.
Contact Dr. Slack about a Breast Lift
Dr. Charles Slack is a highly respected and skilled plastic surgeon. He will discuss your breast lift questions and goals with you in depth in a no-cost consultation. Please feel free to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Slack at his Allen, Texas offices to discuss your goals and concerns. He looks forward to speaking with you.