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Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Women experience age-related changes in the breasts to varying degrees, with pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause often exacerbating how youthful contours can diminish over time. A breast lift can be an exceptionally effective procedure to reshape and rejuvenate sagging breasts, thereby restoring a “perkier” and more projected look. Dr. Jared Garlick can tailor breast lift surgery to treat ptosis (drooping breasts) and make your ideal breast contours a reality. He utilizes special techniques to maximize your breast lift results, including using the GalaFLEX® Scaffold in certain cases to reinforce support for the breasts and extend the longevity of your rejuvenation.

Is a Breast Lift Right for Me?

Also known as mastopexy, a breast lift is popular among patients who have had children, previously breastfed, or undergone significant weight loss. Breast lift surgery is typically most successful for healthy patients who are near their ideal weight and who are bothered by:

  • Mild to severe breast sag
  • A flat, stretched, or “deflated” look 
  • A loss of shape and projection in the breasts
  • Nipples that point downward or droop below the breast fold

The best way to confirm whether a breast lift is the right procedure for you is through a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. During your consultation, Dr. Garlick will thoroughly discuss your concerns, previous medical history, and overall goals to develop a customized treatment plan to achieve your goals. If you have several aesthetic concerns in the breasts and body that you would like to improve, a breast lift can be performed as part of a comprehensive Mommy Makeover to address multiple areas at once.  

How is the Breast Lift Procedure Performed?

Mastopexy is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Depending on your goals and the anatomical indicators unique to you, incisions may be placed either around the perimeter of the areolas, within the natural crease of the breast fold, or using a combination of both methods. In any case, Dr. Garlick places incisions discreetly whenever possible and any scarring should be easily concealed underneath a bra or bikini top.

After incisions are made in a pre-determined location, Dr. Garlick will then remove loose, excess skin and lift the breasts to a higher position on the chest wall. Underlying tissue is then reshaped to tighten and firm the breasts. If necessary, the nipples can also be reduced and repositioned according to your goals. In these cases, the nipples typically remain attached to the breasts. For certain patients, the bioresorbable GalaFLEX® Scaffold and internal sutures may be placed along the lower fold of the breasts to help support the soft tissue. This additional support can remain in place after sutures and/or GalaFLEX® dissolve, often lessening the risk of your newly lifted breasts “bottoming out” in the future.

“I had an amazing experience with DR. Garlick. I loved my experience from consultation to post op appointments. My recovery was smooth. He was very attentive, has great bed side manners and makes you feel very comfortable.”

Elsy.

What Can I Expect During the Recovery Period After a Breast Lift?

After breast lift surgery, feelings of tenderness, bruising, and swelling should be expected and will subside as your healing process progresses. Patients should receive plenty of rest during their recovery, but Dr. Garlick also encourages light ambulation (walking around the house, etc.) to promote blood flow as soon as you feel well enough. Over-the-counter and prescribed pain medications, as well as ice packs, are generally enough to manage any discomfort. Patients can usually return to non-strenuous work within one week; however, more physically demanding jobs may require 10 to 14 days of recovery. Heavy lifting and exercise are prohibited for six weeks or until Dr. Garlick instructs otherwise. He will monitor your recovery through periodic follow-up appointments, and provide you with detailed aftercare instructions regarding activity restrictions, incision care, and what you can expect during the healing process. 

Questions? If you are interested in breast lift surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice to speak to a friendly member of our team or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jared Garlick.

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