Breast Lift

(Mastopexy)

Choosing a Procedure

Most commonly, women seek breast lift operations after having children and experiencing a change in the shape of their breasts. The most common indication for this surgery is poorly misshapen breasts secondary to volume loss post pregnancy and breast feeding. There are situations in which the problem of poor breast shape and size result from problems other than pregnancy, and a breast lift may still be indicated.

Conditions for a good candidate

• You are satisfied with the size of your breast, but they are pendulous and misshapen
• Breasts are not firm and they lack substance
• Your nipples and areolas point downward
• Significant asymmetry of your breasts

Consultation Expectations

Consultation is considered the first step for the patient. Dr. Kaila will discuss your expectations for your results as well as assess your physical and emotional health. Come prepared, as there will be many important questions that will be asked of you during your consult. Some examples of this are listed below:

• Surgeries in past
• Medications being taken
• Past medical conditions
• Allergies
• Past weight loss experience and if the size of your breasts were affected

Dr. Kaila will examine your breasts to consider their size, shape, skin quality, nipple placement and discuss these issues with you.

Mastopexy (Breast Lift)

The method used for your breast lift surgery is determined by three main variables:

• Your anatomy
• Your surgeons preference
• Your desired results

The method which is most commonly used involves three incisions. The first incision is made completely around your areola. A second incision is made as a vertical incision running from the areola incision (bottom edge) down to the crease of your breast. A third incision is along the natural crease of your breasts.

Dr. Kaila will remove any excess breast skin. Then the remaining tissue is shaped and the nipple and areola are raised, which shifts them to a higher position. If necessary, the areola can be reduced in its size. Sometimes, liposuction may be used in conjunction with a breast lift. This will help improve the contour of your breasts, especially on the sides.

You may be a candidate for alternative incision patterns which should be discussed thoroughly with Dr. Kaila during your consult.

Safety of Procedure

There are thousands of people each year who undergo this surgery and no major complications are experienced. All risks and benefits which coincide with this procedure must be understood. Dr. Kaila will discuss this with you. You also need to express any and all questions or concerns you have regarding the safety of this procedure. The advice given by Dr. Kaila must be followed before and after your surgery. Following Dr. Kaila’s instructions will decrease some of the risks.

Infection and blood clots are rare complications, but they can occur. Drainage and antibiotics can be used to treat infection but may prolong your recovery. The risk of blood clots can be minimized by the use of circumferential compression garments during your surgery and making sure you ambulate as soon as possible after the surgery.

Preparing for Surgery

Once you select a surgery date for your procedure, you will be given an information package by Dr. Kaila. This package will remind you of items discussed in the consult process, preparation instructions for the operation and instructions regarding the post operative healing process.

Day of Surgery

Surgery is performed at our private clinic, which is fully accredited. Usually this procedure is performed under general anesthesia. General anesthesia is performed by a fully licensed anesthesiologist certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation is used in some cases. No matter what choice of anesthetic is selected, during the procedure you will remain comfortable and your physical status is always monitored during the operation as well as recovery. You will most likely be discharged home that same day with a specific discharge package with instructions for care and an emergency contact number.

After Surgery

Immediately after surgery you will be brought to the recovery area. Your breasts will be covered with gauze dressings and a sports bra. You will experience minimal discomfort and your surgeon will prescribe medication for any pain you have.

Healing

The healing rate varies, depending on the patient. This is a general time line of your expected recovery:

1st Week

• You will feel more comfortable, begin to move around and even possibly return to work if it is non strenuous

Several Weeks

• Bruising and swelling decrease
• Discomfort will decrease
• Most stitches are dissolvable Support bra is no longer necessary
• Gradual improvement of nipple and areola
• Return to normal activities

Few Months

• Breasts begin to settle into more of a natural shape
• Incision lines begin to fade

Follow-Up Appointments

Post operative appointments are essential to evaluate the progress of your healing process. Dr. Kaila will want to continue assessment with periodic checkups. This is important because your surgeon can monitor your results and answer any of your questions and concerns post operatively.

Results

Most people are very pleased and impressed with their results. Your breasts will tend to feel firmer and you will feel more youthful. Your nipple and areola position will be more proportional. Your incision lines are going to be permanently visible; however, fading of the incision lines will continue over time. They are concealed under any clothing or bathing suits.