Boost Your Breasts
Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, elevates and recontours drooping breasts.
Dr. Tag, a Baltimore board-certified plastic surgeon, conducts mastopexy to remove surplus skin, strengthen the breast's supportive tissues, and enhance the breasts' appearance.
Candidates for a Breast Lift in Baltimore
Women considering breast lift surgery often aim to address various concerns, such as:
- Breasts that sag
- Areolas that are stretched or enlarged
- A deflated appearance of the breasts
- Drooping of the breasts
- Nipples that point downwards
- Nipples positioned below the breast crease
The 'pencil test' is a common method to assess if a breast lift might be needed: Place a pencil under your breast, parallel to the ground. Does the pencil drop, or does it stay put under your breast? If it stays, a breast lift might be suitable for you.
Breasts that sag may retain the pencil due to excess skin. Perky breasts typically lack the extra skin needed to hold the pencil against the chest. Several factors contribute to breast sagging, including:
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- The natural aging process
- Changes in weight
- Genetic factors
Over time, like other body parts, breasts are prone to sagging and losing firmness. Pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly alter breast appearance, causing them to enlarge and stretch the skin. Post-pregnancy or breastfeeding, the skin may not fully retract, leading to a drooping appearance. Aging also naturally brings changes to breast shape and firmness.
The Baltimore Breast Lift Process
Dr. Tag conducts mastopexy surgeries in a fully equipped, accredited surgical center or hospital. The details about the surgical facility and your appointment will be discussed during your consultation.
General anesthesia will be administered for the duration of the procedure. After the surgery, you'll wake up feeling drowsy and may experience some soreness. You'll then be taken to a recovery room where you'll stay until you're ready to go home.
It's necessary to have someone accompany you to the surgery, stay throughout the procedure, and drive you home. Additionally, you should have someone with you at home for the first 24 hours post-surgery.
The type of incision used by Dr. Tag depends on various factors, including the extent of breast sagging and excess skin. There are three main incision types:
- Around the areolas, creating a donut-shaped incision.
- Around the areolas and vertically down to the breast fold, resembling a lollipop.
- Around the areolas, vertically down to the breast fold, and then horizontally along the breast fold, forming an anchor-like shape.
These incisions allow Dr. Tag to lift and reshape the breast tissue and remove any excess skin, enhancing the firmness and elevating the position of your breasts. The nipple and areola are also lifted, and their size may be reduced if needed.
After reshaping the breasts, Dr. Tag meticulously closes the incisions. These will heal into subtle scars. While vertical incisions may be slightly more noticeable, they tend to become lighter and flatter as time passes.
Recovery After A Breast Lift
Post-surgery, it's important to walk around a few hours later to encourage good blood circulation. You may experience soreness and swelling in your breasts. We will provide a prescription for pain medication or recommend an over-the-counter option to ensure your comfort.
It's advisable to rest at home for several days following the surgery. While many patients who undergo a breast lift return to work within the same week, it's crucial to pay attention to your body and prioritize your recovery needs.
During your recovery, sleeping on your back is essential to support proper healing and the settling of the breast tissue. Also, avoid any heavy physical activity for 4-6 weeks.
About eight weeks after your surgery, you can start wearing underwire bras again. This period marks the beginning of seeing your final results.
While you may notice minor shape changes and reduced swelling for up to a year, the final outcome of the surgery will generally be visible a couple of months post-procedure.
Post-Surgery Results
The duration of breast lift results differs from person to person. While a breast lift can't halt the natural firmness loss due to aging or changes from potential future pregnancies, many patients enjoy their post-surgery results for many years.
To extend the longevity of your results, it's beneficial to keep a consistent body weight and shield your skin from sun exposure. Additionally, wearing supportive bras, particularly during high-impact activities such as running or mountain biking, is advisable.
Book an Appointment Today
If you're in Baltimore or the surrounding areas and considering breast lift surgery, feel free to reach out to the office of Dr. Maakan Taghizadeh, a board-certified plastic surgeon.
We are eager to address any inquiries you might have over the phone and can schedule a consultation for you at U Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics!