Understanding Breast Lifts: How to Prepare, Risks, Results and Recovery 

Did you know more people are going for breast lifts instead of breast augmentation? A study from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shows that breast lifts have risen for the past two decades, significantly outpacing implants.

It is worth noting that although both count as breast enhancement procedures, there are significant differences.

Differences between Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift

The primary difference between these two surgical procedures is evident in their definitions. While breast augmentation involves placing implants underneath the breast muscles or tissues, breast lifts entail removing excess skin and reshaping the breast to achieve firmness and a more youthful appearance. During the breast lifting procedure, the surgeon may reposition the nipple areola to protrude forward.

Other considerable differences between breast augmentation and breast lifts include:

Recovery Process

Breast augmentation patients take about six weeks to recover fully. During this period, they are required to avoid strenuous activities. On the other hand, breast lifts tend to heal faster but may have to tolerate small tubes attached to the breasts to drain excess fluids. After the first one or two weeks, the pain becomes manageable, and the patient can resume normal activities, except those that target the chest area.

Results

Breast augmentation procedures aim to achieve fuller volume, thus increasing and improving the appearance of cleavage. The procedure may slightly lift the breasts; however, additional breast lift surgery may be required for such results.

However, breast lifts achieve better results for sagging breasts as they recover their contour and look more upright. For a subtler and more natural look, a breast lift is excellent for reversing time without interfering too much with the breast tissues or causing dramatic changes to your general physique.

Longevity

The results of a breast lift are likely to last longer than implants. Although implants do not expire, they carry the risk of rupture and deflation and thus may require replacement after a while. Saline and silicone implants can last up to 20 years, and you may need to see your doctor at least once annually to ensure your breasts are faring well.

On the contrary, breast lifts are affected by natural elements like pregnancy and significant weight fluctuations. Eating healthy, preventing substantial weight loss, and living a healthy lifestyle should help you maintain the outcome of a breast lift surgery.

Risk of Complications

Breast lift surgery has a lower risk than augmentation because the latter can be followed by implant-related complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture, implant movement, and Breast Implant Illness (BII).

Who Needs a Breast Lift?

Like most other body parts, the breasts change over time. As you age, your breasts may become less firm and sag due to the loss of skin elasticity around the chest area. The following factors accelerate breast sagging:

• Gravity– this natural force that acts on the breasts. Larger breasts are more likely to give in to gravity due to the extra weight of fat.

• Pregnancy– during pregnancy, the breast ligaments are likely to stretch as the breasts become heavier and fuller from breast milk. Pregnancy and birth will affect your breast’s elasticity whether or not you choose to breastfeed.

• Significant weight changes– like pregnancy weight loss can make your breasts less elastic. While weight gain stretches the breast ligaments, weight loss often means losing extra fat in the chest area, leaving excess skin.

• Lifestyle– smoking and an unhealthy diet affect the health and quality of your skin. Eating well and doing some exercises can boost your chest muscle strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose a Cosmetic Surgeon for Your Breast Lift.

Plastic surgery laws differ from state to state, often creating a gap abused by unethical individuals. It is crucial to trust your surgeon before undergoing any procedure. While choosing a cosmetic surgeon, it is vital to interview them, ask for evidence of their work, and search for legitimate reviews to find the best breast lift mastopexy surgery in Beverly Hills, CA.

How to Prepare for a Breast Lift?

Preparation for a breast lift begins right from the first consultation when your doctor asks about your medical history, including past and current medical conditions and any genetic risk of breast cancer. You must share the results of relevant tests like breast biopsies and mammograms and undergo a comprehensive physical exam.

Once cleared to go under the knife, you must stop smoking since it may affect your healing process. You may also have to avoid medications like anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements. It is also crucial to plan for post-surgery by arranging how you will get home and for help during recovery.

How Do You Know You Need a Breast Lift?

If your nipple seems to point downwards or sit below the crease underneath your breasts, you may qualify for a breast lift. Also, if you are unhappy with the size of your breasts when wearing a bra, you should probably go in for a consultation to determine which procedure you need.

Can I Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?

Most women can breastfeed after a breast lift. The procedure does not interfere with your milk production since it involves repositioning the nipple without separating it from the glandular tissue. Your lactation system remains fully functional after a lift. However, if you have breastfed before the surgery, you may experience a difference in doing the same after the procedure.