Why Do People Have Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that elevates and reshapes descending breasts. Over time, the skin loses its elasticity, and the breasts can lose volume and firmness. This procedure is designed to raise the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour.
Women may choose to have a breast lift to address breast changes resulting from ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight fluctuations. As skin loses elasticity with age, and due to the physical expansions and contractions from pregnancy and weight changes, breasts often lose their firmness and can begin to descend. Breastfeeding can further alter breast size and shape as the glands enlarge to produce milk and then shrink back, which may lead to additional loss of breast volume and elasticity.
Aside from cosmetic purposes, a breast lift has medical indications as well. For women experiencing physical discomfort due to descending breasts, such as skin irritation beneath the breast crease or difficulty engaging in physical activity, a breast lift can alleviate these issues. The procedure can reduce skin irritation and make physical activity more comfortable by repositioning the breasts to a more supported position
Our Philosophy on Breast Lift
At Vie by Fraser Kirk, we understand that each patient’s reasons for choosing a breast lift are as individual as their physical characteristics. Our philosophy centres around a tailored approach that respects the unique needs and desired outcomes of each patient. Dr Grant Fraser Kirk and his team are committed to providing results that are harmonious with the patient’s overall body proportions.
We believe in full transparency throughout the consultation process. We discuss the realistic outcomes, the nature of the surgery, and the commitment required during the recovery phase. Our goal is to ensure that patients are thoroughly informed and comfortable with their decision to proceed with surgery. We emphasise patient education and informed consent as key components of our practice philosophy.
Safety and patient satisfaction guide our approach to breast lift surgery. By integrating the latest surgical techniques and meticulous planning, we aim to achieve the patient’s aesthetic or medical goals. Our dedication to patient care is reflected in our attentive follow-up and commitment to patient support throughout their surgical journey.
The Surgical Process
The surgical process for a breast lift at Vie by Fraser Kirk begins with a detailed consultation to assess the patient’s anatomy and discuss their aesthetic goals. Dr Fraser Kirk determines the most appropriate technique based on breast size, shape, and the degree of breast descent. Commonly, the surgery involves making incisions around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes horizontally along the breast crease, known as the ‘anchor’ technique.
During the procedure, excess skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple and areola are repositioned. If necessary, enlarged areolas can be reduced by excising skin at the perimeter. The goal is to create uplifted breasts that are well-proportioned to the rest of the body.
Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and takes about two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Dr Fraser Kirk ensures that the incisions are placed along the natural folds of the breasts to reduce scar visibility.
Aftercare and Recovery
Effective postoperative care is essential for a successful recovery from a breast lift. At Vie by Fraser Kirk, patients are provided with detailed aftercare instructions to guide their recovery process. Upon completion of the surgery, patients are typically fitted with a support bra or compression garment. This garment is crucial as it helps minimise swelling and supports the new contour of the breasts as they heal. It’s normal for patients to experience some level of pain, swelling, and bruising post-surgery as they are part of the body’s natural healing response. These symptoms are typically most pronounced during the first few weeks and gradually diminish over time.
Patients are advised to rest and limit physical activity for at least one week following the surgery. More strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for up to a month to allow the body sufficient time to heal properly. Adhering to these guidelines is important to avoid complications.
Regular follow-up appointments are a critical component of the post-operative care process. These appointments provide Dr Fraser Kirk the opportunity to assess the healing process and ensure that the recovery is on track. During these visits, any sutures that need removal are attended to, and any concerns from the patient can be addressed. Following all prescribed postoperative instructions and attending scheduled follow-up visits are integral to achieving the desired clinical outcome.
Risks
Breast lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries inherent risks, which Dr Grant Fraser Kirk outlines during pre-operative consultations. Common risks include infection, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and bleeding, each of which is monitored closely during and after the procedure. Scarring is also a natural consequence of surgery; however, the incisions can be positioned along the natural folds of the breast to reduce scar visibility.
Additional specific risks associated with breast lift surgery include potential changes in nipple or breast sensation. These changes can be temporary or permanent, depending on individual healing processes. Asymmetry is another risk, where the breasts may not be symmetrical after the procedure. Occasionally, there may be a requirement for revision surgery to adjust or change the initial results if they do not meet the expected outcomes or if complications occur.
At Vie by Fraser Kirk, every measure is taken to reduce these risks. This includes adhering to rigorous standards of surgical care, employing appropriate surgical techniques, and providing comprehensive postoperative monitoring and care. We also conduct detailed patient health assessments during the consultation period, which include previous surgeries, current medications, history of allergic reactions, and medical conditions to determine factors that can affect the outcomes of a breast lift. Patients are strongly advised to adhere to all post-operative care instructions and to keep all follow-up appointments. These steps are critical for monitoring recovery, managing any complications early, and ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.