Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, has been used to enhance appearance by lifting the breast to a higher position. Over the years, women experience the toll of gravity on their breasts due to pregnancy, nursing and age. The skin loses elasticity, breasts lose shape, and loss of volume and sagging occurs. Weight fluctuations can also adversely affect the appearance of the breasts. Mastopexy is a surgical procedure used to lift and reshape the breast.

For this type of surgery, The Centre, P.C. recommends the use of the VitaMedica Surgery Program, a comprehensive pre- and post-surgery nutritional supplement system designed specifically for patients undergoing extensive surgical procedures, such as a breast lift.

The incision is made around the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) and extends downward along the natural curve of the breast. This incision resembles the shape of an anchor. The excess skin is removed, the areola is placed in a higher position, and the skin around the areola is brought down to reshape the breast to a higher position and give a more youthful appearance. A breast lift can also correct an areola that has become enlarged over time. Breast augmentation (enlargement) is commonly performed with a breast lift to help restore the lost breast volume at the top. With this combination approach, the patient has a lifted and fuller breast.

In addition, to make the most of your pre- and post-breast surgery, The Centre, P.C. recommends a collagen bust treatment. This process rehydrates and firms the skin. It also calms swollen tissue, aiding in post-operative recovery.

The Centre, P.C. also offers several soothing body treatments that can ease the discomfort and swelling associated with surgery.

A breast lift does not generally affect breast function, but women who are planning future pregnancies should discuss this with their surgeon. The best candidates for breast lift are women of normal, stable weight and who have completed their families. Younger women can also benefit from a breast lift when the position of one breast is lower than the other, in which case insurance might cover the costs.

Breast lift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that you can safely return home the same day. It is normally done under general anesthesia.

Breast Self-Exams and Mammograms
The following is a list of breast self-exam steps, as recommended by the American Cancer Society.

• Lie down with a pillow under your right shoulder and place your right arm behind your head.
• Use the finger pads of the three middle fingers on your left hand to feel for lumps in the right breast.
• Press firmly enough to know how your breast feels. A firm ridge in the lower curve of each breast is normal. If you're not sure how hard to press, talk with your doctor or nurse.
• Move around the breast in a circular, up and down line, or wedge pattern. Be sure to do it the same way every time, check the entire breast area, and remember how your breast feels from month to month.
• Repeat the exam on your left breast, using the finger pads of the right hand. (Move the pillow to under your left shoulder.)
• If you find any changes, see your doctor right away.
• Repeat the examination of both breasts while standing, with your one arm behind your head. The upright position makes it easier to check the upper and outer part of the breasts (toward your armpit). This is where about half of breast cancers are found. You may want to do the standing part of the exam while you are in the shower. Some breast changes can be felt more easily when your skin is wet and soapy.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram done every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. Mammograms for older women (over 65) should be based on the woman’s health and whether she has other serious illnesses. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam as part of a regular health exam by a health professional, preferably every three years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.

Click here to view our Breast Lift Gallery

Click here for more information on breast lift surgery (mastopexy) or to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. The Centre, P.C. offers the latest plastic surgery procedures, including breast lift surgery, to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area, and Chicago.

 

Elkhart Office

RiverPointe Medical Building
500 Arcade Ave., Suite 300
Elkhart, IN 46514
Phone: 574-296-9100
FAX: 574-293-1511

South Bend Office

MEDICAL PAVILION I
720 EAST CEDAR STREET, SUITE 450
SOUTH BEND, IN 46617
PHONE: 574-233-9100
FAX: 574-233-9108

Chesterton Office

1830 SOUTH 11TH STREET
Chesterton, IN 46304
Phone: 219-395-9200

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