Mastopexy
Mastopexy, or breast lift, is a procedure to lift and reshape sagging or fallen breasts. It is about stretched skin, reduced support and changes to the nipple and areola rather than primarily about breast size.
Pregnancy, breast feeding, aging and weight changes can affect the breast envelope. During a mastopexy the surgeon removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue and moves the nipple.
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Why Breast Position Changes Over Time
Breast shape is a function of the quality of the skin, the volume of tissue and the supporting structures of the breast. The breast may look flatter at the top, lower on the chest or less defined when the tissue settles or the skin stretches.
Some women notice these changes after pregnancy, others after weight change or with age. The degree of descent and the quality of the skin envelope both influence the type of lift required.
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Signs That a Breast Lift May Be Considered
If the issue is more about position than size of the breasts, a mastopexy may be a better fit. Typical reasons for consultation include:
- Breasts that have dropped lower than before
- Nipples that face downward or below the breast crease
- Looser skin and loss of firmness
- Areolas that are widened or enlarged
- Uneven breast height or shape
- Definition lost due to pregnancy or weight changes
The amount of lifting will be different for each patient. Sagging can be mild, and a small amount of work can correct it, or it can be more advanced, requiring wider reshaping and larger removal of skin.
There is no set pattern in which a breast lift is done. The surgical approach is influenced by breast size, skin elasticity, nipple position, areola size, chest width and excess skin.
Dr. Mishal Al Shammari will review these, along with the patient's goals and general health, during consultation. This helps determine the best incision pattern and amount of re-shaping. The balance between the breasts is also considered in planning.
When performing a mastopexy, the goal is not primarily to reduce the size of the breasts as it is when performing a breast reduction. The existing tissue is lifted and reshaped to give a higher, firmer breast. In some patients, the breast becomes more compact, which may make it appear different in size.
Augmentation may be discussed if added fullness is desired. If you are also concerned about too much volume, breast reduction may be a better option. The plan should be reflective of the patient's anatomy, not the same for every case.
Understanding Incisions and Scar Development
To effectively remove the excess skin and form a new breast shape, incisions are required. Depending on the degree of the sagging, they can be placed around the areola, run vertically towards the breast fold or include a line within the fold.
Scars are part of mastopexy surgery but tend to improve in colour and texture with healing. How they look is determined by skin characteristics, care of the incision and how each person heals. The expected scar pattern is explained before surgery by Dr. Mishal Al Shammari so the patient can make an informed decision.
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Early healing can cause swelling, tightness, bruising and temporary changes in sensation. It's typical to be advised to wear a surgical support bra to reduce movement and give support to the tissues.
Patients are usually advised to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and pressure on the breasts until healing is more advanced. You will have follow-up appointments, where the surgical team will look at your incisions and discuss how the shape is settling.
A More Elevated and Proportionate Breast Contour
The goal of mastopexy is to achieve a breast position that appears lifted, supported, and in proportion to the body. The results continue to change as the swelling goes down and the tissues soften.
Surgery can't prevent future ageing, or changes due to pregnancy or weight fluctuation, but a stable weight and following post-operative advice may help support the result. The outcome should be individualized to the patient's anatomy, providing improved position and shape, while preserving a natural relationship between the breast and chest.
What our clients say
Read about the experiences of patients who received plastic and aesthetic treatments from Dr Mishal Al Shammari.
Honestly, I didn't follow my own advice and looked around. I saw my friend's amazing results with him, so I immediately went to him for a consultation. My arms were bothering me, and he did it for me. The result was perfect.
Maram
6 month ago
Honestly, I didn't follow my own advice and looked around. I saw my friend's amazing results with him, so I immediately went to him for a consultation. My arms were bothering me, and he did it for me. The result was perfect.
Maram
6 month ago
Honestly, I didn't follow my own advice and looked around. I saw my friend's amazing results with him, so I immediately went to him for a consultation. My arms were bothering me, and he did it for me. The result was perfect.
Maram
6 month ago
Honestly, I didn't follow my own advice and looked around. I saw my friend's amazing results with him, so I immediately went to him for a consultation. My arms were bothering me, and he did it for me. The result was perfect.
Maram
6 month ago
