Eberbach Plastic Surgery performed over 300 breast surgeries each year. In fact, we actually in the top 1% in Florida for breast augmentations. Many women who are considering enlarging their breasts believe that breast augmentation will lift their breasts as well. This is a common misconception. A breast augmentation will add volume, but will not lift the breast. A mastopexy (breast lift) will. It is a very common procedure for women. Particularly, those who have lost weight, had children, or are more mature and gravity has taken its toll. To determine if you need a lift, simply look in the mirror. If your nipple falls below the crease of your breast, you probably need a lift. The nipple position tells the story.
Breast Lift Procedure – Overview
A breast lift raises the nipple by removing excess skin. Further, tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. Many women may not want to admit they need a lift because they fear scarring. To most women, a small faint scar is usually worth it to have perkier, younger-looking breasts. According to a recent study done by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The frequency of breast lifts has grown by 143,364 procedures – 30 percent since 2019, outpacing breast implants 2 to 1. According to the study statistics, 70 percent of the women had a breast lift. They are between the ages of 30-54. Although the majority of patients fall in that age range. Nonetheless, our surgeons have performed breast lifts on patients as young as 20. Especially, those who have not had children but were still in need of a lift.
During surgery, the surgeon removes extra tissue and skin from the breast. Then, the surgeon does not remove the nipples and areola. However, the surgeon repositions them higher on the breast. Where they remain attached to the underlying breast tissue to preserve nipple sensation. Many times if the areola are large, our surgeon will reduce them in size as well. Breast lifts are an outpatient procedure and patients can go home an hour or so after surgery. Dr. Eberbach typically completes a full breast lift in under 90 minutes under general anesthesia. Lesser breast lifts, like the crescent lift, usually performed under local anesthesia.
Procedure Types
There are four types of procedures that our surgeons perform:
- Donut.
- Crescent.
- Lollypop.
- Wise Pattern.
Upon examining the patient, our surgeon will determine which type of lift would be best for the individual. For example, Dr. Eberbach has had twin sisters come in both wanting breast augmentations. The first twin (twin A) was a 32-year-old mother of two. After breastfeeding her children. Eventually, she lost all of her upper breast fullness. Additionally had excess skin below her nipple, but her nipple was still above her crease. Twin A was able to get her pre-pregnancy breasts back with an implant. And no lift because the nipple was still above the crease.
On the other hand, Twin B gained a lot of weight during her pregnancy. After breast-feeding, her breasts had not only lost their shape but had sagged as well. Twin B’s nipples were below her crease and were pointing downward. After Dr. Eberbach examined and measured the patient. Finally, Twin B needed a lollypop lift, with silicone implants placed under the muscle. Both sisters expressed high satisfaction with the final results.
Breast Lift Procedure – Add Ons
It is quite common for patients to also get implants. Along with the breast lift to add more volume and shape. For women who have dense firm breasts or very large areolas. It may not be safe for the doctor to perform a breast lift and augmentation at the same time. For these women, it may be a two-step process. First, the surgeon performs the lift, and then implants placed at a later date.
A breast lift can help women regain their confidence and allow them to be themselves again. Additionally, it is perfect for women who want more youthful-looking, perky breasts. It is important to communicate with your plastic surgeon the type of look you are seeking. No two patients are the same. Everyone has their own definition of what “pretty” means. For your consultation call us at (727) 868-4490.
