Breast Lift

Dr Jesse Hu
Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure aimed at reshaping and raising sagging breasts. The operation involves removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful and elevated position. This procedure does not significantly change the size of the breasts but can rejuvenate the breasts’ profile by reducing droopiness and improving contour.

By carefully assessing the person’s breast anatomy, skin quality, and specific aesthetic goals, a surgeon can determine the most appropriate technique for achieving optimal results. The breast lift procedure offers a way for people to feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance, contributing positively to their self-esteem and body image.

When is a Breast Lift Needed?

A breast lift is typically considered when there are physical signs of breast sagging or ptosis and when a person expresses a desire to improve the appearance of their breasts. The need for a breast lift arises from various factors that affect the breast’s shape and elasticity over time. These factors include:

  • Ageing: The natural ageing process can lead to a loss of skin elasticity and decreased glandular tissue volume, causing the breasts to sag.
  • Gravity: The long-term effects can stretch the breast skin and ligaments, leading to a drooping appearance.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnancy can significantly change the size and shape of the breasts. The breasts often enlarge during pregnancy and then reduce in size after giving birth and during breastfeeding, which can result in sagging or a loss of their former shape.
  • Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can affect breast volume and skin elasticity, potentially leading to sagging breasts.
  • Genetics: In some cases, genetics play a role in determining skin quality, breast size, and the propensity for the breasts to sag.

 

Indications for a breast lift include:

  • Breasts have lost shape and volume or become flattened or elongated.
  • Nipples and areolas that point downwards, especially if they fall below the breast crease.
  • One breast is lower than the other; there is an asymmetry in the breast position.
  • Stretched skin and enlarged areolas.
  • A personal desire for a firmer, more uplifted breast profile.

Benefits and Risks of a Breast Lift

Benefits

  • Improved Breast Shape and Contour: A breast lift can restore a more youthful and perky breast shape by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue.
  • Enhanced Symmetry: Breasts that are asymmetrical in size or position can be made more symmetrical through a breast lift.
  • Elevated Nipple Position: Sagging nipples or downward-pointing areolas can be corrected to face forward and be positioned more youthful.
  • Reduced Skin Irritation: Removing excess skin and lifting the breasts can reduce skin irritation beneath the breast fold, a common issue with sagging breasts.

Risks

  • Scarring: Incisions are necessary for a breast lift, leading to scars. Although they typically fade over time, they may not disappear completely.
  • Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: Some may experience increased or reduced sensitivity in the nipples or breasts, which is usually temporary but can be permanent in rare cases.
  • Asymmetry: There might be slight differences in the breasts’ size, shape, or symmetry post-surgery.
  • Difficulty Breastfeeding: While many can breastfeed after a breast lift, some procedures might make breastfeeding more challenging.
  • Potential Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, the outcomes may not meet expectations, or changes in breast shape may occur over time, necessitating further surgery.

Types of Breast Lift Procedures

The common types of breast lift procedures include:

Suited for minor sagging. This technique involves a small incision running halfway around the top half of the edge of the areola, leading to minimal scarring, primarily around the areola.

Best for mild sagging and people aiming to reduce the size of their areolas. It entails a circular incision around the edge of the areola, resulting in scarring limited to a circle around the areola.

Ideal for moderate sagging and those requiring more significant reshaping. The procedure includes two incisions: one around the edge of the areola and another running vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease, forming a “lollipop” shape. Scarring appears around the areola and vertically down to the breast fold.

Appropriate for considerable sagging, offering the most dramatic reshaping. This method integrates the incisions in the Lollipop lift with an additional incision along the breast crease. Scarring occurs around the areola, vertically down from the breast fold, and along the crease under the breast.

Preparing for a Breast Lift

Preparation for a breast lift procedure involves several steps designed to ensure the safety and success of the surgery. Key steps and considerations include:

Medical Evaluation

A thorough medical assessment by the surgeon, including a detailed medical history and possibly a physical examination of the breasts, is essential. This may involve mammograms or breast X-rays to evaluate the breast tissue.

Medication Review

Discuss current medications, supplements, and vitamins with the surgeon to identify any that may need to be adjusted or avoided before surgery. Certain medications that increase bleeding risk, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, may need to be temporarily discontinued.

Smoking Cessation

Smokers are advised to quit at least six weeks before surgery to enhance healing and reduce the risk of complications. Smoking can impair blood flow and significantly affect surgical outcomes.

Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, can support recovery. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in healing.

Fasting Before Surgery

Patients are typically required to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the surgery, as anaesthesia is used during the procedure.

The Breast Lift Procedure

The breast lift procedure, tailored to the person’s needs and chosen surgical technique, typically follows a structured process:

  • Anaesthesia: To ensure comfort and pain-free surgery, patients receive anaesthesia. The surgeon determines the type, whether general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation, based on the procedure’s complexity and the patient’s health status.
  • Incisions: Depending on the selected breast lift technique (e.g., Crescent, Peri-Areolar, Vertical, or Inverted T), the surgeon makes precise incisions. These incisions are planned to minimise visible scarring and achieve the desired lift and shape.
  • Reshaping the Breasts: The surgeon removes excess skin, lifts and reshapes the breast tissue, and repositions the nipple and areola to a more youthful height. If necessary, enlarged areolas are reduced by excising skin at the perimeter.
  • Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape. This step not only completes the reshaping but also helps in defining the newly contoured breasts.
  • Recovery in the Surgical Facility: Patients spend time in a recovery area to be monitored after the surgery. Once stable, they can usually go home the same day, accompanied by a friend or family member.

Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation

Successful recovery from a breast lift procedure relies on careful adherence to postoperative care instructions provided by the surgeon. These guidelines minimise complications, manage pain, and ensure the best possible aesthetic outcomes. Key aspects of postoperative care and rehabilitation include:

  • Pain Management: Pain and discomfort are common after surgery but can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It is crucial to follow the surgeon’s instructions on medication use to ensure effective pain relief while avoiding complications.
  • Wound Care: Keeping the incision sites clean and dry is essential for proper healing. Patients may be given specific instructions on caring for their surgical sites, including applying ointments or changing dressings.
  • Wearing Compression Garments: A special surgical bra or compression garment is usually recommended to support the breasts as they heal. These garments help reduce swelling and support the new breast contour. The duration for wearing these garments varies but is typically several weeks.
  • Activity Restrictions: To avoid strain on the healing breasts, patients are advised to limit physical activity, especially lifting, bending, and strenuous exercises, for a period recommended by the surgeon. Gradual return to regular activities is important to prevent complications.
  • Monitoring for Complications: Patients should be alert to signs of infection or other complications, such as unusual swelling, redness, or discharge at the incision sites, and report these to their surgeon immediately.
  • Follow-up Visits: Postoperative appointments are crucial for monitoring the healing process. During these visits, the surgeon assesses the healing of incisions, the condition of the breasts, and overall progress towards recovery.

Dr Jesse Hu

Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Dr Jesse specialises in managing both benign and malignant breast and thyroid conditions, which also includes breast pain, breast lumps, breastfeeding problems, neck lumps, amongst others.

Her dual expertise in cancer removal and plastic surgery techniques expands the design of individualized treatments, leading to holistic patient outcomes.

Dr Jesse was part of the teaching faculties of both NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of medical students and trainee doctors.

  • Surgical training at NUS School of Medicine
  • FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) Edinburgh, UK in 2014
  • Completed 2 Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowships at Oxford University Hospital, UK in 2016

Dr Jesse is recognized as an authority in breast cancer and thyroid surgery and a sought-after conference speaker.

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    Breast Lift in Singapore

    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    Will a Breast Lift Change the Size of My Breasts?

    Although a breast lift aims to enhance the breasts’ shape and elevation, it might slightly alter their size and appearance by making them seem more compact or firmer. Significant size changes, however, typically require augmentation or reduction procedures in conjunction with a lift.

    How Long Do the Results of a Breast Lift Last?

    The results are long-lasting but not immune to the effects of ageing, gravity, and lifestyle factors such as weight fluctuations and pregnancy. To maintain results, follow a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

    Is It Possible to Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?

    Breastfeeding is often possible after a breast lift, but specific surgical techniques may impact milk production more than others. Discuss your breastfeeding intentions with your surgeon to optimise the surgical approach.

    How Long Does Recovery From a Breast Lift Take?

    Recovery varies, with many patients returning to work within 1-2 weeks, but full recovery and final results can take several months. Strict adherence to post-surgery care instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.