Breast Lift – For Firm and Aesthetic Breast Shape
For many people, the term breast surgery brings to mind only breast augmentation, even though breast surgery is a collective term that also includes the correction of differences in breast size and shape. Breast lift surgery is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures, during which sagging breasts are lifted and reshaped to achieve an ideal breast contour.
When Is a Breast Lift Recommended?
A breast lift is indicated when there is sufficient breast tissue present and an implant is not required. The goal of the procedure is to correct the stretching of the skin and connective tissue. Depending on the shape of the breast and the degree of sagging, different types of plastic surgery techniques are used, always aiming for an aesthetic result with the smallest possible scars.
It is important to note that every breast lift involves scarring; however, the size, thickness, and placement of scars can be significantly optimized through careful surgical planning and appropriate suturing techniques.
What Surgical Options Are Available?
Types of breast lift procedures include:
Periareolar breast lift – the scar runs in a circular pattern along the edge of the areola. It is ideal for mild sagging but can be applied relatively rarely.
Vertical breast lift – in addition to the circular scar, a vertical scar extends from the center of the breast down to the inframammary fold.
Inverted T (anchor) breast lift – the most commonly used technique, where a horizontal scar in the inframammary fold is added to the vertical scar, making it barely visible.
The Breast Lift Procedure
A breast lift can be performed under local anesthesia, epidural anesthesia, or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference.
Steps of the procedure:
Photographic documentation of the initial condition.
Planning and marking the incisions on the skin.
Removal of excess skin and reshaping of the breast tissue.
Closure of the skin using fine, hidden sutures.
Wound dressing and application of a sports bra or elastic bandage to support the breasts.
When performed under local anesthesia, the surgery takes approximately 1 hour. If general anesthesia is used, postoperative observation may last half to one day. Sutures are usually removed after about 2 weeks.
Pain and Recovery
No pain is experienced during the breast lift itself; only the needle pricks of local anesthesia may be felt. Mild postoperative wound pain is well controlled with standard painkillers.
Wearing an elastic bandage and a sports bra is essential, and the wounds must be kept dry until suture removal. The final breast shape develops over several months, while scars gradually fade and typically become smooth and barely noticeable within about one year.
Risks of Breast Lift Surgery
Like all plastic surgery procedures, a breast lift carries certain risks. However, with thorough preparation and careful surgical technique, these risks can be minimized. Individual risks are discussed in detail during a personal consultation.
When properly performed, a breast lift results in firmer, more aesthetic breasts with smoother skin, and the patient becomes more confident and satisfied with their appearance.
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