The best results are usually achieved in women with small to moderate size breasts. If your breasts are small or have lost volume, breast implants can be inserted in conjunction with a breast lift to increase both their firmness and size. This procedure is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
Some of the benefits of a breast lift include:
- Correction of drooping breasts
- A more youthful appearance
- Increased self-confidence
- Better clothing options
Your Consultation
Your breast lift consultation will serve as the first step in making the decision to elevate your breasts. Dr. Tarak H. Patel at Cascade Eye & Skin Centers will address all of your questions and review your expected outcomes. He will examine your breasts and discuss the variables that may affect the procedure, including your age, the size and shape of your breasts, as well as the condition of your skin. Together, you will determine if the addition of breast implants will be a part of your treatment plan.
Dr. Patel will also review your medical history to ensure that you do not have any existing health conditions that may increase your risk of complications. The ideal candidate will be in good physical and emotional health.
Understanding Your Breast Lift Procedure
Incision Options
The amount of scarring involved will depend on what type of lift is performed, which is determined by the amount of drooping that needs to be corrected.
Crescent
This half-moon-shaped incision around the areola benefits Cascade Plastic Surgery patients with minimal drooping.
Periareolar
Patients with mild drooping often have this type of incision, which is a full circle incision around the areola.
Vertical (Lollipop)
Often referred to as the “lollipop” incision due to its shape, the top of the “lollipop” is a circle around the areola, and the base is a central incision from the bottom of the areola to the base of the breast. It is often selected for patients with moderate to intermediate drooping.
Inverted T (Anchor)
Patients with more severe sagging may need this type of incision. The “anchor” option adds an incision in the fold of the breast to the vertical (“lollipop”) incisions described above.
Recovery
Dr. Patel recommends that his patients follow their personalized recovery plan after their breast lift procedure. You should expect swelling, bruising, and soreness following surgery, as well as discomfort, which can be alleviated by pain medications prescribed by Dr. Patel.
Most patients return to work within two weeks, but strenuous exercise should not be resumed for six weeks. In addition, patients must avoid lifting and reaching over their heads for at least four weeks after the procedure. The final results of the surgery are usually revealed within six months of the breast lift procedure, as complete recovery can take from six to 12 months.
