Breast lift surgery is performed to lift and reshape breasts that sag naturally or due to pregnancy, breastfeeding or aging.
A breast lift is not just for women with large breasts, it can also benefit women with sagging breasts. It can restore breasts to a more youthful and firmer appearance and increase self-esteem.
A breast lift is often combined with other types of breast surgery, including reductions and augmentation, which enhance the size and shape of the breasts.
Dr Safvat uses the more modern medial pedicle technique, which is sometimes called “the short scar technique”, for his breast lift procedures. The scar is usually placed around the areola and vertically under it. No horizontal scar is required for this technique which means the recovery is quicker with minimal scarring.
The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic in an accredited hospital. Dr Safvat only works with highly trained anaesthetists who are accredited with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.
Once the incisions have been made, the breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to produce a more desirable appearance. The nipple and areola will also be repositioned. If either of the areolas are enlarged, excess skin is removed. Any excess breast skin will also be removed if necessary.
Before the incisions are closed, any remaining skin is tightened. Any sutures are layered within the breast tissue, ensuring the breasts have enough support during and after your recovery. Surgical tape can also be applied to the incisions for an extra layer of protection.
There is a chance you might need to spend a night in hospital but this will be discussed during your consultation. If drains are placed underneath the skin, they are removed after 2 – 3 days.
Upon being discharged, the patient is required to wear a medical garment (bras) for six weeks and needs to have 1-2 weeks off work to rest at home. Walking is actively encouraged postoperatively but exertion and heavy lifting are not allowed for 3-4 weeks.
Initially after the surgery, the breasts will be swollen and the skin incision will be raised, red and lumpy. This will settle over the next few months and Dr Safvat will guide you through scar management after your operation. In general, it can take some months before the breasts settle into their final shape. The appearance of incision lines will fade over time to fine white lines and are less noticeable.
It’s important to wear your compression garment for at least 6 weeks. This will reduce swelling and improve blood flow, resulting in a speedier healing process. Any pain and discomfort that’s experienced during this time can be managed with medication. During the first 2 weeks, it helps to sleep on your back. Surrounding yourself with pillows can help prevent you from rolling over during the night.
While it’s important to take the time to heal and relax, taking short walks a few days after your surgery can accelerate the healing process and reduce the risk of complications. Any strenuous exercise and heavy lifting will need to be avoided for at least 6 weeks. You should only resume your usual exercise routine if you feel ready to do so.
Any surgical procedure can be associated with some general complications. These include collection of blood (haematoma) or other fluids (seroma), mild to severe infection, and the risks associated with general anaesthetic. There is also a risk of scarring, loss of nipple sensation, asymmetrical results and breastfeeding difficulties. Dr Saftvat will take you through all potential complications during your consultation, ensuring you know exactly what to expect.
Smoking and being overweight have been shown to cause more complications after surgery. Dr Safvat will insist that you stop smoking 3 – 4 weeks before your surgery and that your weight is stable. As a general rule, if your weight is stable, the result of the breast lift is that much better. You will also need a mammogram done within 12 months of your operation.
If you are planning to start or grow your family, it’s best to do this before you consider surgery. This is because your breast size and shape can change after a pregnancy and this can affect the final result.
There are a number of aspects that contribute to the final cost of a breast lift, including anaesthetist, surgeon and hospital fees. Post-operative garments will also be taken into account. Some patients also choose to combine their lift with augmentation, which can also change the final cost. Once you have your consultation with Dr Safvat, we will be able to give you an idea of fees. Overall, cost should never be the determining factor for any major procedure – the skills and experience of your surgeon should always be a top priority.
A breast lift is a personalised procedure and may not be the right choice for everyone. Scheduling a consultation with Dr Safvat is still the best way to get a clear idea about whether it’s the right procedure for you. The condition of your breasts and your medical history will play a role in determining this.
Before you consider a breast lift, keep in mind that it won’t significantly change the size of your breasts. If you want fuller breasts, augmentation is a better option. For a reduction in size, a breast reduction is probably better suited to your needs. Dr Safvat will discuss all options with you during your consultation. It should also be noted that results don’t tend to last as long if you’re planning to expand your family or if you have heavy breasts.
The ideal breast lift patient should be in good physical health and have realistic expectations about the outcome. The breasts should also be fully developed and have lost their shape and firmness. Another reason why you might be an ideal candidate is if your nipples fall below the breast crease and point downwards.
Directly after your surgery, you will see a noticeable difference. However, the shape of your breasts will continue to change and settle over the course of the next 3 months. Your breasts may appear smaller after a lift, even if you didn’t combine your procedure with a reduction. This is mainly because your breasts are now firmer and have a better shape. If you combined your procedure with augmentation, your breasts will more than likely be larger and healing could take a bit longer, depending on where the implants were placed.
The results of your breast lift will last for many years but they’re not entirely permanent. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations and the general ageing process can all affect your results years after the procedure. Maintaining a healthy weight is one way to enjoy the results of your surgery for longer.
Directly after your surgery, the incision sites will be red and lumpy. Scarring is an inevitable part of a breast lift and will be permanent. However, with the right care, they will become softer, thinner and lighter in colour. Fortunately, any scarring can also be hidden under clothing and swimwear.
It is possible for any type of breast surgery to affect your ability to breastfeed but there’s no way to know this for sure. Every step is taken to keep the milk ducts and nipple sensation intact during surgery. Directly after surgery, some numbness is going to be present but feeling will gradually return over the course of the next month or two. If you are particularly concerned about being able to breastfeed, it’s best to schedule your surgery after you’ve completed your family.
Directly after your surgery, the incision sites will be red and lumpy. Scarring is an inevitable part of a breast lift and are permanent. However, with the right care, they will become softer, thinner and lighter in colour. Fortunately, any scarring can also be hidden under clothing and swimwear.