What will the recovery be like

A breast lift is an operation performed by a plastic surgeon in order to lift a woman's sagging breasts into a perkier position. Due to gravity, childbearing, weight fluctuations and breastfeeding, the skin and tissue in this region begins to stretch out into an unsightly appearance. Another name for the operation that repairs this problem is a Mastopexy. It's important to ask your cosmetic surgeon questions during your initial consultation so that you fully understand what to expect. Here are some questions to ask your doctor.

What does the procedure entail?

A Mastopexy will be performed in a hospital or clinical setting under general anesthesia or another type of sedation. There are different types of incisions and the ones selected will depend on your individual case. How much sagging is in evidence, how elastic the skin is, where are your nipples and areolas positioned and what are the size of your breasts? Incisions are called the donut, the lollipop and the anchor with the donut being the one chosen for the least amount of lifting. This incision is made around the areola and looks similar to a donut. The lollipop is similar except that it also has a vertical line beneath it, much like a stick on a lollipop. The anchor will be the choice for women who need the most hoisting and will include an additional incision below the breast fold. Although there will be permanent scars, these fade substantially over time.

What will the recovery be like?

It's important to ask specific questions about how long it will take before you're able to go back to your normal routines such as work and exercise. Ask when the stitches will be taken out and what sort of follow-up care will be needed. Initially, you'll be given pain medication so you'll want to inquire about the type, amount and how long you will need to take it. If you have children to care for, you'll need help in the initial recovery period in caring for them. It's helpful to have a friend or family member step in to assist you.

Questions About Your Surgeon's Expertise

In the initial consultations, it's important to ask your cosmetic surgeon questions about his or her training, how many breast lifts he or she has performed, and what sort of risks of complications might you expect. Inquiring about before-and-after photos is also a wise idea, especially if you've only seen generic photos on the internet. You want to see actual pictures of this doctor's patients in order to judge expertise, skill level and aesthetic eye. You'll want to find out what hospital he or she has operating privileges at so that you'll know if it aligns with your preferences, as well.

A breast lift can make a big difference in the way a woman looks and feels about herself. These operations are often a part of the "Mommy Makeover" combination of a Mastopexy, augmentation, and tummy tuck. Gravity, aging, weight fluctuations and childbearing may take their toll on breasts but it surely doesn't have to be permanent with nips and tucks available through cosmetic surgery.