Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A Breast Lift (Mastopexy) treatment in Tampa by Dr. Polecritti is a commonly performed procedure used to reshape and lift the breast into a more youthful position. As women age, the amount of breast tissue gradually decreases and the amount of breast fat increases. Many times there is a net loss of breast tissue and the breast begins to sag and look droopy. This change is typically a gradual one but can be more noticeable in some women shortly after pregnancy.

Where are the incisions?

A breast lift can be a complex procedure. There are many techniques available to achieve symmetry and a more youthful look. A well known plastic surgeon in Tampa, Florida Dr. Polecritti will discuss each of these with you during your consultation in order to determine which technique will give you the best result. In some cases an “anchor” shaped incision will be used. The incision encircles the areola, runs vertically down the front of the breast and then extends to each side hidden within the breast crease. These incisions allow adequate skin and breast tissue to be trimmed and removed reshaping the breasts and positioning them to a higher more youthful position. In many cases, the areola stretches and loses its youthful perky shape. Using these incisions, the areola can be resized, lifted, and repositioned to give a more youthful shape and appearance. Some women who have a lesser degree of sagging or “ptosis” may be canidates for other breast lift techniques which requires an incision just around the areola.

Will my breast size be smaller or larger after the lift?

This largely depends on how much breast tissue you have to start with and the degree of the sagging. Skin and some breast tissue are removed during the procedure that may result in a smaller but more youthful breast.

Can I have a breast augmentation at the same time?

It is common for women to complain about loss of breast fullness in the upper portion of their breasts, usually after pregnancy or weight loss. Even with a lift this can be difficult to correct depending on the degree of sag and amount of breast tissue available. In many cases, the addition of a small to moderate size breast implant solves this lack of fullness and yields excellent results. The addition of a breast implant is also helpful in patients with moderate sized or small breasts to begin with and they don’t want to be even smaller after the lift.

Is nursing affected after a breast lift?

Nursing can be affected by the procedure depending on the degree of breast tissue manipulation required to return the breasts to a more youthful position. If you are considering a breast lift procedure and know you want to breastfeed, it is recommended that you wait. In addition, pregnancy causes the breasts to enlarge. This enlargement can re-stretch the the breast skin which is counter productive to the benefits of the breast lift.

Will my scars be noticeable?

Many of the scars are placed in inconspicuous areas around the areola and along the breasts crease. However, some of the scars may be on visible areas of the breast and an understanding of this should be discussed during your consultation. If you have problematic scars, the use of topical silicone and or laser treatment can be an effective treatment.

Can you describe the recovery?

The procedure is performed at a local hospital or surgery center under general anesthesia. The lift may take two hours depending on the complexity. You will be able to go home the same day. It is common to have some swelling, soreness and bruising. These symptoms gradually resolve within the first week to ten days. You will be given oral medication for any discomfort you may have. Most of the sutures are absorbable but a few are placed in key locations and will be removed within 1-2 weeks. Most patients are able to go back to work within the first week. Dr Polecritti will advise you when to return to exercise or strenuous activity.