Many people come into our clinic every year feeling self-conscious about their “saggy boobs.” While sagging breast tissue is a very normal effect of aging, pregnancy, or even weight loss, it can cause many people to not feel as confident about wearing the clothing that they would like to wear.
At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, we want you to radiate confidence from the inside out. For some people, this could mean addressing their sagging breasts through breast lift surgery.
What Is a Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lift surgery is the process of surgically repositioning the breast tissue higher on the chest wall so that the breasts can look more youthful and the nipples can be placed in a more pleasing location.
During a breast lift surgery, excess skin is removed from around the breast tissue so it can be lifted. Then the breast is placed into a more optimal position and the incisions are sealed. Breast lift surgery can also help if you don’t like the size of your areola. During the process, we can remove some of the dark skin around your nipple to create a more pleasing areola size and shape.
Will Breast Lifts Cause Scarring?
Scars will be present with all breast lift surgery, but the placement of these scars will make a difference in how visible they are. The location of the incisions is determined by the amount of sagging in the breast rather than personal preference. Three of the most common types of breast lift incisions are:
Donut Incisions
Donut incisions are incisions that are made around the circumference of the areola. They are the least visible type of incision and can be used for people who only have mild drooping in their breasts.
Lollipop Incisions
Lollipop incisions are made around the areola and then in a straight line from the areola to the bottom crease of the breast in the shape of a lollipop. This is to help remove more skin from the lower half of the breast to help lift the tissue. Individuals with this type of incision will have a verticle scar that will fade slightly during the months after the surgery. This is used for more moderate cases of sagging.
Anchor Incisions
An anchor incision is similar to the lollipop incision but includes an additional cut at the bottom of the breast in the crease. This type of incision is most commonly used when the breasts have more severe sagging and the maximum amount of skin needs to be removed.
How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?
It can be difficult to predict how long your breast lift will last because a lot of that will depend on your personal preferences and how you feel about your breasts as the years pass. However, if you take care of your skin, remain at a healthy weight, and wear bras that fit your breasts, you can expect your breast lift surgery to last for longer. Some people opt to come back for touch-up surgery in a few years while others are happy with the results for much longer.
Can Breast Lifts Increase Breast Volume?
Breast lifts are designed to lift the existing breast tissue rather than increase the volume. The only way to make your breasts larger during breast lift surgery is to also invest in breast augmentation. This surgery can be done at the same time and there are many different options to choose from. Many of our patients elect to have implants put in at the time of their breast lift. We can also perform fat grafting which involves taking fat from one area of your body and placing it in your breasts to make them larger.
What to Expect From Your Surgery
Before your surgery, you will want to make sure you have enough time off from work and other activities and that you have someone who is able to take care of you while you recover. You will have a detailed appointment with us where we will talk about your goals for the surgery and discuss the results that you can expect after your breast lift.
When you come for your appointment, you will be put under general anesthesia and the procedure will be performed. Breast lifts are commonly an outpatient procedure so you will be able to go home the same day.
What Is Recovery Like for Breast Lift Surgery?
After your breast lift surgery, you should plan to have at least one week off from your regular activities. You will want to get plenty of rest, care for your incisions, and help your breasts to settle into their new location. We will bandage the area to provide proper support and prevent swelling and we will make sure to provide you with pain medication. You shouldn’t do any heavy lifting or other activities that could slow your recovery or cause complications. After one week, you can slowly begin resuming your normal activities as advised by your doctor.
Breast Lift Procedures in Burr Ridge, IL
If you are frustrated by saggy boobs and you want to have breasts that are perkier and more youthful, breast lift surgery may be right for you. At Burt & Will Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, you can schedule a consultation to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. We can help recommend the type of surgery that is best for you and any other treatments that may help to improve the appearance of your breasts. You can call us today, or you can schedule an appointment online.