Women who have experienced undesirable changes in their breasts over time, usually after pregnancy and breastfeeding are the most common patients seeking breast augmentation or a breast lift.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a procedure that helps to raise and reshape sagging breasts. As women age, skin loses elasticity, which causes the breasts to lose their natural shape and firmness. By removing excess, stretched out skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and raising the nipple into a more forward position, a plastic surgeon can create a more youthful breast contour.
The Pencil Test
You can test whether or not you need a breast lift by placing a pencil as high as you can under the breast fold. If the pencil holds, then you have signs of breast drooping. If your nipple falls below the pencil, then you have serious signs of ptosis and are a great candidate for a breast lift.
Breast Augmentation
Do you want bigger breasts? If so, then augmentation is the surgical procedure that is required. Breast augmentation, also known as mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that helps to accentuate the size and shape of a woman’s breasts by placing breast implants.
During the surgery, the desired implants are placed underneath the muscle or over the muscle, depending on the patient’s aesthetic goals and the existing contour of her chest. The patient will then decide the best location for the implants while minimizing the visibility of any possible scarring. After the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the cuts with sutures or surgical tape.
You’ll need to take it easy for a few days after your breast augmentation surgery and should retain from any heavy lifting for up to six weeks.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen may help relieve discomfort. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication for you.
You will probably have some swelling in the area where the surgery was done, but over time the swelling should ease and the scars will fade.
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon
If you’re considering a breast lift or breast augmentation, choosing a cosmetic surgeon is the most important decision you’ll make. If you have any questions or concerns about which surgery you should have, Contact The Lett Center today at 615-443-0901!