Breast Lift: Dispelling Common Fears and Expectations

woman and doctor

Breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a popular plastic surgery procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the underlying tissue to lift and reshape the breasts. While breast augmentation with implants remains the most popular procedure, breast lifts are a close second, chosen by women who want to restore their breasts to their pre-pregnancy or pre-weight loss shape.

Fear #1: Scars – the biggest fear of breast lift

Mastopexy is a complex plastic surgery with many nuances. However, the biggest concern for most patients is the issue of scars. No matter what type of lift is performed – periareolar, vertical, or anchor – all incisions are made in visible areas.

Achieving the best possible scar appearance after a mastopexy can be achieved by following these steps:

  • Choosing the optimal lift technique with access points that will minimize incisions while still creating a beautiful breast shape
  • Proper postoperative scar care. Scar reduction procedures include laser, dermabrasion, and Dermastamp
  • Scar revision and excision if necessary six months to a year after surgery

Don’t worry too much about scars, as they fade over time and become less noticeable. Most patients say they like their new breasts with scars much more than their appearance before the lift.

Fear #2: Difficult rehabilitation and pain

Dr.Zykov, a leading plastic surgeon in Europe, provides expert advice on the rehabilitation period following a breast lift surgery:

“Compared to the postoperative period after mammoplasty, breast lift recovery is much easier and less painful. There are no significant traumatic elements involved in a breast lift – the breast muscles are not affected, and reducing the size of the breast itself does not cause significant pain. Therefore, there is no need to be afraid of rehabilitation, everything is tolerable.

For 2-3 days there may be discomfort, weakness, and malaise, but in principle, after 3 days the vast majority of women can already go about their daily lives and return to work.

Fear #3: Possible complications

Not everything can go smoothly during surgery. To some extent, any operation is a gamble, and there is always a possibility of complications.

  • Breast asymmetry. A fairly common occurrence. Achieving an aesthetically perfect result is practically impossible, so slight asymmetry is the norm for such operations. However, if the asymmetry is pronounced, a second operation will be necessary.
  • Hematomas – the formation of blood clots after tissue trauma. Small hematomas resolve on their own but require close attention.
  • Tissue necrosis. May occur if there is extensive damage to blood vessels, as a result of which blood flow to certain areas of tissue ceases. A very rare complication that requires immediate treatment and correction.
  • Inflammation and suppuration. This problem can occur if an infection is introduced during surgery.
  • Decreased nipple and areola sensitivity. A common occurrence immediately after surgery. But in most cases, sensitivity is restored over time.

Before deciding on a breast lift surgery, it is certainly necessary to weigh all the pros and cons of the surgery for yourself. Are you ready to take risks for the sake of improving your breast shape? Are these risks justified?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have a breast lift is a personal one. If you are considering this procedure, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations.

Please note that this is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.