About Breast Lift Surgery
Mastopexy (known as a breast lift) is a body contouring procedure that lifts and tightens the breasts by trimming away loose skin and surgically tightening the healthy tissue to result in a more youthful and healthier look. This cosmetic breast surgery is offered for Chicago area women who have lost breast firmness, size, and shape and who are experiencing breast drooping due to aging and gravity, as well as weight loss or pregnancy. Outstanding advancements in mastopexy techniques have made this aesthetic surgery so effective and successful that new statistics by the ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) reveal nearly a 70% increase in demand since 2000. Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Saeed Chowdhry of Oak Lawn, IL performs this procedure at SAC Plastic Surgery. By using the latest methods, Dr. Chowdhry can choose the appropriate technique based upon the degree of sag present, keeping in mind the desired result.
Ideal Candidates
You may come to SAC Plastic Surgery wishing for implants only, but after a private assessment, you may discover that breast lift surgery is the better option. This is because of the amount of sagging that is present. Breasts that have lost elasticity typically need a skin removal and tightening surgery to reduce laxity and bring the breasts to a perkier position. If you have nipples that droop downward and your breasts sag significantly below the crease line, a mastopexy (breast lift) can dramatically help their appearance. If you are contemplating a breast lift, you need to be in good health and at a good weight.
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Surgical Technique
A breast lift usually takes two hours or more and is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia. The duration of this treatment is dependent on the nature of breast size and sagging. The surgical technique used for a breast lift typically falls into two categories — the technique is defined by the size, location, and nature of the incision. The inverted-T (known as an anchor) and the straight line vertical incisions are the most used methods. The incision is first created, and any loose, unhealthy skin is excised along with fat and tissue that is not wanted. The skin is then tightened and the breasts are positioned higher and lifted so they appear healthy and younger. In most situations, the size of the areola is reconstructed and reduced to be symmetric with the new placement and shape of the breast. At this point, an implant or a fat transfer can be placed in the breast if this was discussed with Dr. Chowdhry ahead of surgery. If the lift is the only procedure being performed but size and shape are a concern, augmentation surgery with implants can be implemented at a later date.
What To Expect
Recovery for any type of breast lift is more extensive than a surgery with implants only. After the procedure, you will wear a medical compression bra to diminish swelling. A thin tube is also inserted near the location of the incision to help with excess fluid leakage that can often occur after mastopexy treatment. After surgery, the swelling usually goes away within about a week. Dr. Chowdhry or a member of his team will provide in-depth home treatment care instructions to help with your healing process. Aesthetic results after a breast lift surgery are noticeable after a few weeks as the breasts take their higher placement on your bustline. Your breasts will feel and appear natural, and you will feel perkier and healthy overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a breast lift cost?
During your initial appointment, Dr. Chowdhry will ask about your wants and goals before creating your personal treatment plan. Following an examination, he can estimate the price of your procedure. When done well, a breast lift will significantly enhance your physical appearance so it is important to concentrate on having a skilled surgeon with years of training, like Dr. Chowdhry, rather than the price. To help make surgery affordable, SAC Plastic Surgery will help you find low-interest financing.
Do I need a breast lift or breast implants?
Whether you should have a breast lift, implants, or both depends on your specific goals. Oftentimes, a breast lift will enhance the form and fullness of your breasts with no need for implants. Dr. Chowdhry will evaluate your physical condition and also listen to your goals at your consultation, then make a decision about whether you would benefit from implants, a lift, or an augmentation plus a lift.
Will my nipples be moved?
Generally, the nipple-areola complex will be moved up in the breast lift. If your areolas are excessively large or stretched, then Dr. Chowdhry can incorporate an areola reduction in your surgery. This may be discussed during your appointment so he can choose the ideal incision pattern to use in your breast lift.
How long will my results last?
With good care following surgery, your results can last for several years. Your breasts will still age normally, which means you could start to see loose and sagging skin in time. Factors such as significant weight loss or gain can change your results; therefore, it is best to stay at a steady weight following your breast lift. Pregnancy or breastfeeding following a breast lift may also alter your results, which is why Dr. Chowdhry suggests patients wait until they are done having kids to get a breast lift.
Can a breast lift fix asymmetry?
A lift may improve asymmetry in your breasts if they're different in size, firmness, or level of sagging. Dr. Chowdhry will evaluate the physical condition and appearance of your breasts during your consultation and discuss how a breast lift will be able to help you. During your surgery, he will adjust the tissue so your breasts are equal in position and size for symmetry.
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Healthier-Looking Breasts
Surgical breast lifts have transformed the lives of many Chicago area individuals. If you are faced with hanging, sagging breasts that interfere with your daily activities or stop you from sporting the clothing styles you desire, a mastopexy at SAC Plastic Surgery may be the answer to your problems. When you have your initial visit, a thorough breast assessment will be performed by Dr. Chowdhry and your desired outcome will be discussed. We will determine a tailored plan for treatment to assist in transforming your breasts. We encourage you to contact our practice and speak to a patient coordinator to schedule a consultation.