Everything You Need to Know About a Breast Uplift Procedure
Wondering if a breast uplift is for you? Changes to the shape, firmness, or position of the breasts are extremely common. This can be due to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight gain or loss, and a lot of other natural occurrences.
If this has left you feeling unhappy or unsettled, a breast uplift may be the solution. Breast uplifts (mastopexy) can help to restore a younger, perkier look to the breasts, and can help you to love your body again. This guide will cover everything you need to know about getting a breast uplift.
Breast Uplifts in Detail
Breast Uplift (mastopexy) Surgery is a procedure to lift and reshape sagging or drooping breasts. The procedure involves tightening the skin and removing excess skin. The breast tissue is then lifted and reshaped, making the breasts appear fuller and higher on your chest to give a more youthful appearance.
The nipple is usually repositioned to a higher point on the chest wall. The areola can be made smaller, if it is larger than you would like. Breast uplifts can be carried out as a single procedure, combined with breast implants if you desire more volume, or a breast reduction if you would prefer a smaller, lighter breast.
Why the Breasts Can Lose Firmness and Position Over Time
The shape of a woman’s breasts can change for various reasons. Pregnancy and breastfeeding cause the breasts to repeatedly increase and decrease in size. This can stretch the skin and cause droopiness after breastfeeding is complete.
Weight loss can also cause your breasts to lose fullness and firmness. As we age, our skin becomes less elastic and loses collagen. Gravity also causes the breasts to lose their youthful perkiness.
While many women accept these changes as a normal and inevitable part of life, others are unhappy with their current breast shape. If you feel that your breasts no longer match the way you feel on the inside, or you want to feel more confident in your appearance, a breast uplift can be an excellent solution.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Uplift?
If your breasts are positioned lower than you like, your nipples point downwards, or you think your breasts no longer look full and youthful, you may be a good candidate for this procedure. Mr. Gwanmesia will spend time listening to your concerns and goals and will assess whether you’re physically suitable. He’ll also discuss the outcomes you’re hoping for with the surgery.
He’ll take into account factors such as whether you want to have children in the future, as pregnancy and breastfeeding may stretch the breasts again. If you’ve recently stopped breastfeeding, it’s usually best to wait six to twelve months for your breast tissue to settle before having the surgery.
The Consultation
The first step of your journey is a detailed consultation to review your medical history and discuss your desired outcomes during the consultation. Your surgeon will perform a physical examination, will discuss any previous surgeries or procedures, and discuss any general health issues. Any previous breast-related problems will also be addressed.
At the end of your consultation, you’ll know what to expect during surgery, where incisions and treatment areas will be, whether any additional procedures will be necessary, and an estimate of how long you are likely to spend in hospital. If you have any questions, your surgeon will address these and make sure that you are fully informed before proceeding.
Preparing for Surgery
If you decide to proceed, you will receive your customised pre-operative instructions. These will include refraining of smoking several weeks prior to surgery (as smoking can delay your healing process), and not taking any medications that can interfere with bleeding.
We also recommend that all patients over the age of 40 have a mammogram to screen for any abnormalities in the breast tissue prior to surgery. Finally, you will be advised to purchase a comfortable and supportive sports bra in the size you are aiming for following surgery.
On the day of surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital where you will meet your anaesthetist. Your surgeon will see you on the ward prior to the procedure to review the operative plan and mark the breasts. They will also discuss the consent form with you to ensure you understand the benefits and risks of the procedure, and that you have realistic expectations regarding your recovery.
The Procedure and What to Expect
Breast uplift surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic and normally takes two to three hours. The technique used will be determined by the shape of your breasts and how much lift is required. Most often, incisions will be made around the areola, vertically down the front of the breast, and sometimes around the breast crease.
These incisions allow your surgeon to remove excess skin and reshape the breast tissue and nipple for a more natural appearance. The incisions are then stitched and a support bra is applied to begin the healing process. The uplift can be combined with breast implants to add volume or a breast reduction to make the breasts smaller and lighter.
Breast Uplift Recovery
It is usually possible to go home on the day of surgery or to stay overnight for observation. Bruising and swelling are normal and can be controlled by the use of pain relief medication.
You should rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least four to six weeks. Light work and normal activities can usually be resumed after ten to fourteen days. You will need to wear your support bra during the day and night to support the breasts and help your skin to settle and regain its new shape.
Your surgeon will see you for a follow-up after surgery to check on your progress. You will have scars where the incisions were made, but these will fade and can easily be hidden by your bra or swimsuit. Your surgeon will make every effort to avoid scarring through careful surgical techniques and will provide information on caring for your skin as it heals.
How Long Does a Breast Uplift Last?
Breast uplift results can last a long time. The position, fullness, and general youthful appearance of your breasts can be maintained for many years if you lead a healthy lifestyle and keep a stable weight. The breasts will still be affected by the normal signs of ageing, gravity, and future pregnancies.
However, with the right care you can maximise the effect of your breast lift for many years. If you are unhappy with significant changes to your results, you can always return to your surgeon to discuss further treatment or revision.
Emotional Benefits of a Breast Uplift
In addition to the physical benefits of breast uplift, many women report emotional improvements after the procedure, such as feeling more confident, more feminine, and more comfortable in their clothes and skin. It’s not about being a different person, but about allowing your body to reflect how you feel inside.
Your surgeon will be there every step of the way to support and empower you. They should guide you to the best decision for your body without pressure or unrealistic expectations.
Final Thoughts: Is a Breast Uplift Right for Me?
A breast uplift is a personal choice and for many women a life-changing decision. With the support and expert guidance of an experienced and trusted surgeon, you can be sure that you are in safe hands every step of the way.
If you’re exploring your options or ready to book your consultation, make sure that you take the time to understand the procedure, recovery, and long-term outcomes. This will ensure you are making an informed decision that is right for you.
Breast Uplift: FAQs
1. Will I still be able to breastfeed after a breast uplift?
Potentially yes, but this is dependent on the surgical technique employed. If the milk ducts behind the nipples are not damaged during surgery, then breastfeeding may still be possible. Breastfeeding is not always possible, so it is important to discuss any concerns with your surgeon at your consultation.
2. How long will it take before I can return to work?
Patients are typically able to return to work within ten to fourteen days, however, this will be dependent on your job. Light duties should be perfectly fine, although more strenuous jobs involving lifting or other physical exertion should be avoided for several weeks.
3. Will my breasts look natural?
Yes. Mr. Gwanmesia is renowned for his natural-looking results. He designs breasts which work with and complement your body shape.
4. Do I need to have implants for a successful uplift?
Not always. Some patients are perfectly happy with their current breast size and simply want to lift sagging breasts. However, if you do wish to have more volume in the upper breasts or a larger cup size, implants can be used in conjunction with the surgery.
5. Will my results last forever?
Breast lift surgery has long-lasting results, but is not resistant to the natural ageing process, gravity, or changes in weight and lifestyle. It is possible to prolong your results by keeping your weight stable, wearing supportive bras, and keeping your skin in good condition.
6. Is a breast uplift painful?
There may be some soreness and swelling, which is normal. Pain relief medication can help, but most patients only experience mild discomfort.
