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A mastopexy or breast lift procedure is performed to reduce or eliminate breast sagging or ptosis. This is accomplished by removing excess skin and leaving as much breast tissue as possible. The nipple is elevated to a more aesthetically appealing position. In some cases, a breast implant is also used to accomplish the desired result. In other circumstances, it may be necessary to perform both the augmentation and mastopexy to achieve the necessary results.
Surgery Scars are present around the areola, vertically down to the fold where the breast meets the chest and horizontally along this fold. Anesthesia The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, usually as an outpatient. The anesthesiologist and the surgical facility will bill separately for their services. Duration of Surgery The operating time will vary depending on the patient and the extent of the procedure. Generally the time is 1 to 3 hours. Before Surgery Do not take aspirin or products that contain aspirin for at least 3 weeks prior to surgery. Also refrain from any herbal supplements, as some may have an effect on increasing bleeding during the course of surgery. Remove all makeup and mascara from your eyelids. If you wear contacts lenses, it would be preferable that you wear glasses when you arrive to the surgery center.
After Surgery Patients return home after the operation wearing a bra. The bra helps to support the breasts to lessen discomfort. The bra should be worn at all times for 2 weeks. After this time you may sleep without the bra. You should not go bra-less for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. If the bra is too tight it may cause ulceration of the skin. Remove the bra immediately if the bra feels too tight or if it hurts. You may shower 5 to 7 days after surgery. If you bathe do not allow the incisions to soak under water. You may remove the bra to shower or bathe. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Stitches are usually removed in 7 to 10 days. Return to Normal Activity Most people return to their usual activities and to work approximately 1 to 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Strenuous sports and other activities should not be performed for 3 to 4 weeks. You may drive when driving does not cause pain, or when you are no longer taking pain medication. This usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. Photographs Photographs, which do not include the face, are taken at the time of your consultation. These are important aids in the preparation of surgery and become a permanent part of your record. Post-surgical photographs are also taken. Scars You should expect a scar around your areola, which usually is difficult to see once it had faded. Another scar extends from the 6 o'clock position of the areola to the point where the breast meets the chest. Another scar runs along the fold under the breast. Both of these scars also fade over. The scars will fade with time. This usually takes 9 to 12 months. All scars are however permanent. The width, height and color of scars are unpredictable. Wear a sunscreen of at least SPF of 15 or greater when outside to protect the scars from sunlight during the healing process. Diminished Sensibility As with any surgical procedure, small sensory nerves to the skin surface may be cut when the incision is made or when skin is undermined. Portions of your breast will feel numb or have less than full feeling. In addition, the nerves to the nipple may be stretched or cut during the procedure resulting in a decrease or loss of sensibility of the nipple. The sensibility in these areas gradually returns, usually with 2 to 3 months as the nerve endings spontaneously heal. During the healing process the breast skin and/or nipples may become hypersensitive for as period of time. Some diminished sensibility of the skin and/or the nipple may last indefinitely. Swelling Swelling of the breasts or any site following surgery is normal. During the first 1 to 2 weeks your breasts will feel and may look larger due to the swelling. The breast skin may appear shiny due to the swelling also. The swelling will start to subside after the second postoperative week. It may take as long as 2 months for the last bit of swelling to recede.
Complications HEMATOMA A collection of blood in the area of surgery occurs in a small percentage of women. The body will absorb minimal bleeding. A larger collection may necessitate aspiration to drain the collection. Occasionally it will require additional surgery. INFECTION This is uncommon but possible. We attempt to minimize this risk by giving intravenous antibiotics during the procedure and oral antibiotics after surgery. Most infections are mild and are treated with antibiotics. Occasionally a serious infection develops which may require additional surgery to treat. SYMMETRY Most women have breasts of slightly different size and or shape. If these differences exist prior to surgery they may remain different after surgery. Rarely, in spite of careful attention to detail, the breasts end up slightly different in size or shape. If this is not noted while you are in surgery, and poses a problem after healing, you may need a small procedure in the future to adjust the difference. LOSS OF SKIN, BREAST TISSUE OR NIPPLE This is extremely rare. When it does occur, it is usually the result of an infection that has grown out of control, another rare occurrence. The areas of loss are usually small and heal with conservative care.
Dr. Morales Recommends Theraderm Skin Products for his patients before and after surgery.
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