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Breast Lift with Implant
(Mastopexy with Implant)
Women are candidates for
breast lifts if their breast gland is too low
on the chest, if the gland folds over and rests on the chest, or if
the nipples are too low. An
implant is indicated when more upper chest
fullness is desired, or a larger cup size.
Child bearing with or without breast feeding is the most common cause
for these changes in breast shape, however weight loss, genetic "soft
collagen" and advancing age can all cause or contribute to breast sagging.
Depending on the type of implant (saline or silicone) and thickness
of breast tissue, the implant may be on top or underneath the chest
muscle. |
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 Dr. Gordon
will discuss the variety of surgical procedures, depending
upon what changes are desired. Prior to surgery, pre-medication to relax
the patient is administered and breasts are carefully marked to indicate
where the incisions are to be made and correct placement of implant.
Regardless of the type of lift selected, our patients have the option
of choosing saline implants or silicone gel.
When a woman has breasts which are shaped like sweet potatoes (tubers)
this condition is termed tuberous breasts and is treated by a type of
lift, which circles the areola and is termed a circumareola lift. A
circumareola or "C" lift is also good for the treatment of large areolas,
mild forms of nipple asymmetry, or malpositions such as low-lying nipples.
Dr. Gordon generally prefers a round smooth or textured implant in these
cases.
In cases in which there is good nipple position on the breast mound,
but poor gland position, then a lift of the gland without disturbing
the nipple position can be done using a vertical incision, which passes
between the bottom edge of the areola and the inframammary fold. We
call this lift an abbreviated vertical scar mastopexy (AVSM).
Dr. Gordon
may recommend a round or teardrop style implant with above or below
muscle placement.
In the typical advanced cases of nipple and gland malposition we need
to lift both the nipple and the gland. The incision circles the areola,
(often reducing the areola to a more appropriate size) and continues
down to the inframammary fold. We call this lift a vertical scar mastopexy
or VSM lift. This is the most common lift we do and in our hands provides
the best results for the common varieties of breast and nipple sagging.
Dr. Gordon believes one of the teardrop styles implants generally works
best in these cases.
Dr. Gordon has a special interest in
cosmetic breast surgery and has
made significant progress in bringing the combined
augmentation-lift
procedure to its current level. We are now working to improve the results
with patients who have drastic differences in breast size and shape,
with some very encouraging results.
BEFORE
SURGERY Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate
the general health of the patient.
Dr. Gordon will do a thorough examination
of the entire patient as well as the breast to determine the most effective
surgical approach. He will describe the type of anesthesia to be used,
the procedure, what results might realistically be expected, and the
possible risks and complications.
Mammograms or x-rays may be taken as well as digital photography.
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FOLLOWING
SURGERY
After surgery, the patient may temporarily have a drain and will need
to wear an absorbent pad for a day or two. A bra may be worn but is
not necessary, unless you are instructed to do so to aid in breast shaping.
Pain connected with the procedure is significant but is controlled with
oral medication. Daily showers and Antibiotics will be continued to
prevent infection. Instructions for the day of surgery include bed rest
and limited activities. Dr. Gordon will determine when normal activities
can be resumed; however, weight training and aerobic exercise must be
avoided for several weeks.
Sutures, if necessary (most cases use dissolvable suturess), are removed
in about seven to fourteen days at which time
Dr. Gordon may recommend
massage to keep the breast supple. Numbness around the treated area
may occur, but this condition is usually temporary. Swelling and discoloration
disappear in a few days, and scars from incisions, although permanent,
fade significantly with time.
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