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A Breast Lift Reverses Sagging

Published on August 6, 2018

Disclaimer: there is no guarantee of specific results and the results can vary.

The breast lift, also known as mastopexy surgery, is a plastic-surgery procedure that involves elimination of excess breast skin, making the structure tighter and firmer. Breast lifts often result in better-defined contours and a higher, perkier look.

Studies conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reveal a growing popularity for breast-lift procedures. Since the year 2000, breasts lifts have become nearly twice as popular as breast augmentations with implants.

The shape and structure of female breasts often change with time and as a result of pregnancy, aging, and severe weight fluctuations. There can be stretching and elongation of skin, an increase in size, nipple displacement, enlarging of areolae, and changes in elasticity. Breast lifts can help with all of these conditions and restore the shape and firmness of the younger days.

An Overview of the Procedure

The exact details of the breast lift vary from patient to patient. The chosen incision type, the extent of tissue removal, and the type of reshaping all depend on several factors, including the following:

• Shape and size of the breasts
• Positioning of nipples and areolae
• Extent of sagging
• Quality and elasticity of skin

The first step is anesthesia. General anesthesia is usually preferred and is typically administered intravenously to ensure patient comfort during the course of the procedure. The reshaping and incision locations are marked on the breasts before performing the operation.

There are three basic options for incision patterns. The first is circular, around the areola. This results in a smaller degree of lift and is called a donut incision.

The second pattern is around the areola and then vertically down. This results in moderate lift and is known as a lollipop incision.

The third option is around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and across the breast crease. This option is perfect for removal of the most tissue and results in a bigger lift. It is called an inverted-T incision.

After the incisions are made, Dr. Morwood performs a combination of techniques to reshape the breasts:

• Reshaping and repositioning of breast tissues to give curves and adjust firmness
• Repositioning of nipples and areolae to a more appropriate location
• Reduction of enlarged areolae through skin excision around the corners
• Removal of excess skin to provide elasticity

Identifying Breast Sagging

For women to easily identify breast sagging, there is a simple test that can be performed at home. All they need to do is place a thin ruler or a pencil along the crease under the breast. The position of the nipple (not the areola) needs to be noted in relation to the pencil. If the nipple lies exactly over or below the pencil, there is sagging.

Breast lifts are not generally meant to increase the size of the breasts. Silicone or saline implants are a better option if someone wishes to enhance their breast size through surgery. Breasts lifts instead improve the shape, firmness, and symmetry of breasts.

Make Your Appointment for a Consultation

Dr. Morwood has over 20 years’ experience as a plastic surgeon, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and for years he has served as either the chief or vice chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery of Monterey.

For more information about Dr. Morwood or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us here.

View Before & After Photos


*Actual Patient
Disclaimer: there is no guarantee of specific results and the results can vary.

Out of Town? Visit Monterey for Your Next Surgery

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