Breast Lift
BREAST LIFT OPERATION
Many women experience sagging of their breasts due to various reasons over time. The breast tissue, which consists entirely of fat and milk glands and lacks muscle structure, loses its voluminous and upright appearance over time due to factors such as gravity, aging, fluctuations in weight, childbirth, and breastfeeding. The loss of the breasts' former appearance varies in timing for everyone. Sagging may occur at earlier ages in individuals with larger breasts. Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed when the breast loses its fullness and the nipple droops downward due to physical and environmental factors. Since breast lift surgery is performed to give breasts an aesthetic appearance, it is crucial to plan this process carefully and communicate the patient's desires accurately to the physician.
Why Do Breasts Sag?
- Sagging may occur at an early age due to weak ligaments supporting the breasts, stemming from structural and genetic factors.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women are more prone to breast sagging. Breast tissue enlarges during the breastfeeding period as it fills with milk. After weaning, breast tissue no longer producing milk returns to its pre-pregnancy state, but the skin loses its previous tightness, leading to breast sagging.
- Fluctuations in volume resulting from excessive weight gain and loss can lead to breast sagging.
- Aging leads to reductions in breast tissue, which can cause breasts to sag and loosen.
- Preventing the effects of gravity on body shape is challenging. Particularly in women who do not wear bras, the gravitational force can cause breasts to sag downward.
How Is Breast Lift Surgery Performed?
Breast lift surgery can be performed using two different methods fundamentally. In individuals with small breasts, silicone implants may be placed under the skin, while in those with larger breasts, excess breast tissue is removed to reshape and lift the breasts. Additionally, asymmetrical appearance between the breasts can be corrected. Breast appearance can also be reshaped without reducing breast tissue. During the examination process, the person's breast tissue and nipple position are evaluated. Subsequently, the degree of breast sagging is determined. The duration of the operation varies depending on the degree of breast sagging, breast structure, and the technique used, but it typically lasts about 2 hours. It is performed under general anesthesia.
Recovery Process After Breast Lift Surgery
- The individual is called to the hospital for dressing changes and a check-up on the third day after the operation.
- Heavy sports activities should be avoided for about 3 weeks after the operation.
- The individual can resume daily activities the day after the operation.
- It may take 4-6 months for the breast to take its final shape.
- A sports bra should be worn for 6-8 weeks after the operation.
- It is recommended to sleep with elevated pillows for the first 2 weeks after the operation.