Cosmetic Surgery Breast Lift Statistics
- In 2004, the average age of American breast lift patients was 41 years old.
- There were nearly 100,000 breast lift operations performed in the United States in 2004.
- Mastopexy was the 18th most popular plastic surgery procedure in 2004 in the United States.
- Between 1997 and 2004 there has been a 395% increase in the frequency of breast lift procedures.
Breast Lift / Mastopexy - Are You A Candidate?
Breast Lift Surgery Procedures & Risks
Mastopexy Procedures
Plastic surgeons have developed three different techniques that are commonly used to perform mastopexy or breast lift procedures. The methods vary in the way incisions are made and the benefits they can provide for different patients. If you are considering a breast lift, it is important to be familiar with these three mastopexy approaches and to discuss them with your doctor to determine which one is right for you.
Concentric Mastopexy
Concentric mastopexy is considered the least invasive of the different breast lift methods. The procedure removes extra skin through concentric circles around the areola border. When enough skin has been removed, the areola and nipples are lifted to the desired position. The result is a flatter, rounder breast shaped instead of a sloped shape. The concentric mastopexy procedure is best suited for women with smaller breasts who are seeking to sculpt their breasts and nipples into a more youthful shape.
Vertical Mastopexy
The vertical mastopexy surgical technique seeks to restore breast shape by removing excess skin that is not desired from around the areola. This is accomplished by the plastic surgeon making a vertical incision that runs from the areola to the bottom of the breast that meets the chest. Skin along this incision is removed to minimize sagging and attain a desired shape. The vertical mastopexy method is an excellent technique for women with nipple sagging and who do not want to leave much scarring behind after surgery.
Anchor-Shaped Mastopexy
The anchor-shaped mastopexy is the most common mastopexy technique. It involves an anchor-shaped incision that follows the natural shape of the breast and outlines where skin will be removed. When excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are moved to a higher and more desired position. Then skin is then brought down and together to sculpt and enhance the breast.
Risks
Where Mastopexy Surgery is Performed
Anesthesia for Breast Lift Surgery
Planning for Breast Lift Surgery
Preparing for Breast Lift Surgery
Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a list of guidelines to follow before you undergo surgery. These will include instructions on eating, drinking, and smoking habits. It is important to abide by your doctor's orders to ensure a safe operation with a timely recovery.
How Breast Lift Surgery is Performed
Recovery from a Breast Lift Procedure
Breast Lift / Mastopexy Questions and Answers
How will I be evaluated for breast lift surgery?
Your plastic surgeon will examine your breasts and the areas surrounding them. For an adequate evaluation, you will also be needed to discuss your medical history and to be open and honest with your doctor concerning your goals and aspirations for the breast lift. Finally, you must inform your plastic surgeon if you are planning on losing a significant amount of weight or getting pregnant in the future.
Will my insurance help offset the costs of breast lift surgery?
Unfortunately, breast lift surgery is considered an aesthetic procedure and is not typically covered by insurance. However, under certain circumstances your mastopexy may be covered. Speak with your plastic surgeon or a staff member in his or her office for more personalized information about insurance coverage.
Where are incisions placed for a breast lift or mastopexy procedure?
The location of incisions is dependent upon the technique being used. Concentric mastopexy utilizes concentric circles around the areola, vertical mastopexy consists of a downward vertical incision from the areola to the chest, and anchor-shaped mastopexy is characterized by an anchor-shaped incision around the areola. Ask your doctor which breast lift method best fits your goals and needs.
What can I expect the day of surgery to be like?
On the day of surgery your vital signs will be closely monitored by trained medical personnel while you are given anesthesia. During the operation you will not feel any pain, and many patients are permitted to go home only several hours after surgery. However, the specifics of the surgery day are highly dependent on the patient. Your plastic surgeon will prepare you for the day of surgery by explaining each of the steps in detail.
How will I look and feel immediately following the Breast Lift surgery?
Patients are fitted with dressings to cover your breasts immediately after the surgery. Some swelling and discoloration occurs, but pain is managed through prescription medications. Straining, bending, and lifting must be avoided for several days to promote healing. Over time, your breasts will adjust to their new shape and you will fully experience the benefits plastic surgery and mastopexy have to offer.
When can I pursue my normal activities again?
It is possible to return to work within a week after breast lift surgery, depending on your job. After several weeks, most patients are able to resume most of their normal activities. Although the healing process is gradual, your mastopexy operation will not severely interfere with your lifestyle.
How long can I expect results to last?
Although gravity and the aging process eventually alter the size and shape of every person's body, the benefits of your mastopexy can be quite long-lasting. However, results can be severely affected by gaining or losing a significant amount of weight or becoming pregnant. With the appropriate lifestyle choices you can enjoy the results of your breast lift for many years.
If you’d like more specific answers to these questions, the best place to start is by consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon.
