Breast Lift
Breast Reduction

Mastopexy/ Reduction Mammaplasty

Before

After

Many times with normal breast development, or after pregnancy or weight change, a woman can be unhappy with appearance of her breasts. If a woman feels comfortable with her breast volume in a bra, but without this support feels that the breasts are sagging, a breast lift, or mastopexy, is a good option. No breast tissue is removed or added. Some extra skin is removed, and the tissue lifted and tightened. The size of the areola can be reduced, and the nipples elevated to the ideal position.

If a woman feels that in a bra, the breasts are too heavy for her body, a breast reduction might be indicated. Symptoms such as neck and back pain, grooves in the shoulders from bra straps, rashes under the breasts, and even numbness in the hands may occur. If the breasts are causing these problems, and a significant amount needs to be removed for symptomatic relief, private insurance often pays for part or all of the procedure. Similar to breast lift surgery, extra skin must be removed, and the areola can be lifted and resized. Often women are asymmetric, and these differences can be minimized. Discussion and exam beforehand will determine the best size for you. Each woman is different, and each reduction is as well.

I use two basic techniques for breast lifts, and three for reductions. For breast lifts, one technique, the Wise pattern, places stitches around the areola, straight down, and under the breast fold. This technique gives an immediate good result, and is less painful. The other technique, the Lejour, puts stitches around the nipple and straight down-none under the breast fold. It is sometimes referred to as a lollipop incision. The breast looks a little bunched up for a few weeks, but heals beautifully. The advantage is eliminating the horizontal scar under the breast fold. Both of these techniques can also be used for reductions, though the Wise pattern is better for larger procedures. In addition, if the nipple position is acceptable to you, and you simply wish a reduction in breast volume, often liposuction through a 1 cm incision can significantly reduce breast size with virtually no scarring. No lifting or areolar changes can be done by this method.

Breast lift surgery is done in our certified outpatient surgery center under monitored sedation or general anesthesia with an anesthesiologist. Breast Reduction surgery is done either in the our ambulatory surgery center or in the hospital under general anesthesia. You can go home the same day from either. Pain is surprisingly minimal, and easily controlled by prescription medications. The procedures take from 2-3 hours, depending on the size and technique. Stitches are underneath the skin and need not be removed. A special bra is provided for you, and needs to be worn for three months. Recovery is 1-3 hours, and a week off of work is sufficient.

Breast lifts and reductions result in very happy patients, as an enhanced breast image often raises confidence. No foreign materials are used, and recovery is rapid. I find it one of the most rewarding procedures that I do.