Breast Lift

If you have ever stood in front of the mirror and wished that your breast were firmer, higher, and more youthful-looking, breast lift surgery may be a good option for you. A breast lift can rejuvenate your figure by restoring the lift and shape that is often lost as gravity takes its toll. In breast surgery, also called mastoplexy, the breasts are raised, the nipples are repositioned and the areolas (the darker skin around the nipples) may be reduced in size. If you have lost breast volume over the years and would want to add more fullness, implants may be inserted during breast lift surgery to increase breast size.

Is a breast lift right for me?
A breast lift can be performed at any age,but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Pregnancy and breast-feeding may affect the size and shape of your breasts, so you may wish to postpone surgery until after having children. Still, many women elect to go forward with the surgery before having children, knowing that they can address any pregnancy-related changes later. the milk ducts and nipples typically are not affected during breast lift surgery, so usually the procedure will not alter your ability to breast-feed. You may be a good candidate for breast lift surgery if you have the following conditions:
• Breasts are pendulous, but are a size that is satisfactory to you
• Breasts lack substance or firmness
• Nipples and areolas point downward, especially if they are positioned below the breast crease

In many cases, women seek breast lift surgery to correct inherited traits or asymmetry - one breast may be firm and well developed while the other is not. Breasts of any size can be lifted. However, the results are more long-lasting for women whose breasts are smaller and lighter.

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery can be a tremendous life-enhancing option if you are a woman with overly large breasts. Having the procedure will give you more that just smaller, firmer breasts. You will also get significant relief from many physical and emotional discomforts, a new sense of freedom in your exercise and physical activity, and the ability to wear a greater variety of clothing styles. In fact, of all the procedures that plastic surgeons perform, breast reduction ranks among the highest in patient satisfaction. Breast reduction, also called reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue and skin, making your breasts more proportional to the rest of your body. The areola (pigmented skin surrounding the nipple) may be reduced and repositioned as well.

Is breast reduction right for me?
Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast-feeding may affect the size and shape of your breasts. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss this with your surgeon.

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following conditions:
• Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breast
• Heavy, sagging breasts with very low nipples and areolas
• Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
• Skin irritation beneath the breasts
• Indentations in your shoulders caused by tight bra straps
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
• Feelings of self-consciousness about the large size of your breasts
• One breast that is much larger than the other

How is breast reduction performed?
The specific method chosen for your breast reduction will be determined by your anatomy, your surgeon's preferences and your desired results. The most common method uses a three-part incision. One part of the incision is made around the areola (nipple area). Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third part is a horizontal incision beneath the breast, which follows the natural curve of the breast crease.
After the surgeon has removed the excess breast tissue, fat and skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which is usually larger than ideal, is reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the nipple is brought down and together to reshape the breast. Liposuction may be used to improve the contour, especially on the sides of the breast. The nipples and areolas usually remain attached to their underlying tissue as they are moved to their higher position - much like a button being moved to a higher buttonhole - and this may allow for the preservation of sensation. This method may also preserve the ability to breast-feed, although it is not guaranteed.