BREAST LIFT
What are the benefits?
With time, reduced elasticity in the skin, gravity, significant weight loss, or pregnancy can all make breasts sag and droop. A breast lift, or mastopexy, improves breast appearance by raising and reshaping them.
Surgery cannot restore elasticity and certainly has no effect on the force of gravity, which means that heavy breasts can fall again in time. Therefore, a minimal breast reduction, done at the same time as the lift, may be advised so that the results last longer. Instead of a breast lift, or even in addition to it, Dr. Duclos may also suggest breast implants, so that the shape of the upper part of the breast be maintained, to firm up the breasts and again, so that the results last longer. This last is particularly the case after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
Is it for me?
A breast lift can improve your appearance and self confidence but it won’t necessarily change your relationships with others and it can’t help you achieve perfection. The best candidates for this type of surgery are women in good health, emotionally stable, with realistic expectations. Before opting for this type of procedure, be clear about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Duclos. She’ll be happy to answer any questions clearly and provide information on the type of procedure that’s best for you, including the pros and cons.
What techniques are used?
During the procedure, excess skin is removed, the breast is lifted and the incisions closed. Depending on the patient, stitches may be located just around the areola, or extend in a vertical line downwards from the nipple area, or along the lower crease of the breast. The diameter of the areola may also be reduced to better harmonize with the breast’s new shape.
What should I expect?
During your consultation, Dr. Duclos will examine your breasts, determine the quality of the skin, the degree of sagging, breast size, gland characteristics, and any presence of nodules. Because each surgery is planned according to the individual, Dr. Duclos will only make her recommendations after evaluating your general health and determining your expectations. She will explain the procedure in exact detail, including each step, as well as the type of anaesthetic that is most appropriate (local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic), pre and post operative care, the inherent risks, and expected results, including location of incisions.
Before the procedure, you will have to purchase a sports bra for the day of the operation. The duration of the procedure depends on the amount of work to be done. You will then remain under observation until the doctor decides you may leave the clinic. Painkillers will be prescribed and the date of your next appointment will be given to you before you leave. Make sure you ask someone to accompany you back home.
Since there is usually very little pain associated with this procedure, a light analgesic will be prescribed. Significant pain or any sudden swelling must be attended to immediately.
You must wear your sports bra at all times for the first two weeks following your procedure, except when washing. Avoid lifting your arms above your head. Avoid exposing your scars to sunlight or in any kind of tanning salon for 6 months. When you return to work depends on the type of work you do. Generally speaking, you can resume strenuous sports one month after your procedure.
What are the risks?
Complications are rare and usually minor. Haemorrhaging (or excessive bleeding), infection, irregular scarring and asymmetry can occur. In very rare cases, diminished sensation of the breast or nipple can also occur and extremely rarely, complete loss of sensation can happen. This procedure generally has no affect on your ability to breast feed.