Three Signs You May Need a Breast Lift

If you like your figure in a bra, but when the bra comes off your breasts go south, you may want to consider breast lift surgery. Time, gravity, childbearing and weight loss can all contribute to loosening of the breast skin and in some cases the loss of breast volume.  

What Happens During a Breast Lift?

Breast lift, also known as mastopexy simply removes the extra loose skin of the breast. Imagine if you will, taking fabric out of a bra that is too loose. There is almost no change in the size of the breast with a breast lift, only a few grams of skin is removed.

The nipple is moved to a higher location and the breast contents are put in a smaller package so to speak. There are different types of breast lifts, but the most powerful leaves a scar around the areola, down vertically from there and under the fold of the breast. Some patients refer to it as the anchor pattern. This pattern gives both a horizontal and vertical tightening of the breast and allows the most elevation of the nipple.

If a patient wants to restore volume an implant can be added to a lift. If a patient wants to be smaller a reduction can be included with a full lift.  In fact, some patients will do better with some degree of reduction. Gravity wins, and the heavier the breast the more it will go south again.

The internet promotes some misconceptions that concern me, one is the pencil test. According to some, if you can hold a pencil under the fold of your breast then you need a breast lift, or your breast lift has failed.  It’s not all or nothing. A breast with a bit of droop is normal. Even a lifted breast will regain some droop. It’s just a matter of degree and setting honest expectations.

Another misconception is that a lifted breast will look like a breast that has had implants. Implanted breasts are full up top. A lifted breast will take on a more teardrop shape which in fact is more natural.

Common Reasons for a Breast Lift

Reason #1: Breast Crease Issues

Sagging breasts can cause a number of problems underneath the breasts. I tell my patients to look for rashes and infections, including, believe it or not – a yeast infection. A bra that doesn’t fit correcting can also cause issues underneath the breasts.  Lift or reduction can both help this issue

Reason #2: Drooping Breasts Interrupt Your Lifestyle

For many of my patients, drooping breasts actually get in the way. For some intimacy issues are a problem.

Reduction in combination with a lift comes into play for many of my athletic patients. Take, for example, if you’re a runner. Having larger breasts might prevent you from continuing to run or participate in any other of your favorite sports or other physical activities.

I’m going to add clothing into the mix, as part of the lifestyle. Many of my patients who come in for a breast lift consultation say their large breasts keep them from fitting into many different types of tops/blouses. Their breasts don’t align with the rest of their body, making it difficult to buy certain pieces.  Lift with reduction is often the right choice here as well.

The converse is also true. For the patient that has lost volume adding an implant to a lift may help achieve the sense of balance they have lost.

Reason #3: Back, Neck, and Shoulder Issues for the Patient with Large and Saggy Breasts

Many of my patients also complain about how their heavy, sagging breasts cause pain in their upper back, neck, and shoulders. Speaking of shoulders, tight bra straps can also cause pain in that area. And finally, heavy breasts can cause your posture to get worse. In this case, a lift with breast volume reduction can lighten the load. Breast lift with reduction cannot solve all back issues but there is clear evidence for many that it is a step in the right direction.

Make an Appointment to Discuss a Breast Lift

If you can relate to any of the above issues, then you should make an appointment to come in and see me for a consultation to discuss a breast lift, or any other breast surgery, such as breast reduction. These breast surgeries are amongst the most common I perform and can help you determine if you are a good candidate. You can view before and after pictures here and read more about the procedure on the breast lift section on my website. Call 301-656-6398 today and make an appointment for a consultation today. I have three locations conveniently located near you – two in Maryland, and a location in Virginia.

April 4, 2019 2:40 pm
Categories: Breast Lift