Breast Augmentation with Lift

What can a breast augmentation with a lift do for me?

The breast augmentation portion of the procedure can increase the fullness of the breast, in particular in the upper portion of the breast, and there are multiple implant options to choose from (to read more about breast augmentation, click here). The breast lift rejuvenates the breasts by trimming excess skin and tightening supporting tissues to achieve an uplifted, youthful contour. After a mastopexy, the breasts are higher on the chest and firmer to the touch. Breast lifts can also reposition and reduce the size of the areola—the dark skin surrounding the nipple—which may have stretched or drooped. (To read more about the breast lift procedure, click here)

Am I a good candidate for a breast augmentation and lift?

The best candidates for breast augmentation with lift are women whose breasts meet some or all of the following conditions:

• Breasts sag
• Breasts have lost shape or volume
• Breasts are flat, elongated, or pendulous (hanging)
• Breast skin and/or areola is stretched
• Nipples or areolas point downward
• Nipples or areolas are located in the breast crease when breasts are unsupported
• One breast is lower than the other

It is also important that breast augmentation with lift candidates:

• Maintain a stable weight
• Are generally healthy
• Do not smoke
• Discuss realistic goals with their plastic surgeon
• Have a normal mammogram or breast ultrasound if they are over 40 years of age

What is the recovery from a breast augmentation with lift like?

After surgery, the breasts are wrapped with dressings and you will wear a surgical bra. After a few days, this is replaced with a soft support bra, which is worn 24 hours a day for about a month.

The breasts will probably be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable after surgery, but this will pass in a few days. Any numbness in the breasts and nipples should lessen as swelling subsides, and many patients return to work within 2 weeks.

Will I like the results of my breast augmentation and lift?

If you agreed on realistic goals with your plastic surgeon, you should be very satisfied with the look of your lifted breasts. You will be able to see the results of your mastopexy immediately after surgery, and you may become even more satisfied as swelling goes down and incision lines fade.

What are the risks of breast augmentation and lift?

Possible complications of a breast lift include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Temporary or permanent numbness in the nipple or areola
• Breast implant rupture
• Rippling of the breast implant
• Palpable implant
• Uneven positioning or shape of breasts or nipples
• Widening of scars
• Poor incision healing
• Fluid buildup
• Breast hardening
• Damage or necrosis of breast tissues
• Need for revision surgery