One of the most common of these unwanted changes is the development of sagging breasts that lack the shape and firmness of your youth. This sagging results from a loss of skin elasticity that occurs due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, gravity, or simply natural aging. Although the onset of sagging breasts may be unavoidable, there are measures that can be taken to curtail this process.
Breast lift surgery, otherwise known as mastopexy, is designed to help women restore a more elevated, youthful breast contour. Since breast sagging is such a widespread concern for women, I wasn’t shocked to discover that according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of breast lifts performed annually in the US has increased by 70% since 2000. Still, some patients may still not be sure exactly what can and cannot be accomplished with a breast lift. That’s why I’ve taken some time to clear the air about this amazing cosmetic breast surgery and its benefits.
A breast lift can create more symmetrical, better shaped breasts. Since the breast tissue is reshaped during breast lift surgery, this procedure can be a great way to reduce breast asymmetry. With the help of a skilled, experienced plastic surgeon, a breast lift can help restore rounder, better-shaped breasts.
A breast lift cannot change the size of your breasts. A breast lift also cannot be used to round out the upper part of the breast. For patients who want larger, fuller breasts in addition to the other benefits of a breast lift, I often recommend combining their breast lift with a breast augmentation procedure. For patients who would like a smaller breast size, breast reduction surgery is likely their best surgical option. Breast augmentation and a breast lift are often combined as well.
A breast lift can alter the position of the nipple. As the skin at the base of the breast becomes stretched and begins to sag, the weight of breast tissue can pull the nipple downward so it faces the ground. A breast lift can be used to reposition the breast tissue so that the nipples are returned to their normal forward-facing position.
In my experience, my patients are generally extremely satisfied with the results from their breast lifts. Regardless of the cause of your sagging breasts, a breast lift procedure can be an excellent way to turn back the clock and regain the firmer, perkier breasts you desire. For more information or to schedule a breast lift consultation today, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Instagram for more plastic surgery tips, photos, and updates.