Our Summary

Mastopexy and mastopexy-augmentation are cosmetic breast surgeries aimed at giving breasts a youthful and attractive appearance. Causes for these alterations can include aging, hormonal changes, or weight loss, which can affect the skin and tissue of the breasts. Various surgical methods have been used, but most contemporary procedures involve reshaping the breast tissue to maintain the correction of sagging breasts for a longer period.

Using a mesh to support the sagging breast is a newer approach and aims to restore the strength of the breast’s support structures. Despite initial debates, it’s now proven that combining mastopexy and augmentation in one procedure is a safe option for suitable patients who want both shape and volume correction.

However, further procedures may still be needed based on the desires of the patient and surgeon. As technology progresses, it will likely continue to improve the capability of cosmetic plastic surgeons to provide satisfying and lasting correction of sagging breasts.

FAQs

  1. What are mastopexy and mastopexy-augmentation surgeries?
  2. What factors can lead to alterations in the breasts that may require surgery?
  3. What is the role of mesh support in breast augmentation surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast augmentation is to carefully follow post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, wearing a supportive bra as recommended, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in your breasts to your doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast augmentation are those who are seeking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts for aesthetic purposes. This may include patients who have experienced changes in their breasts due to aging, hormonal changes, weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Patients who have naturally small breasts or asymmetrical breasts may also seek breast augmentation to achieve a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

It is important for patients considering breast augmentation to have realistic expectations and to understand the risks and limitations of the procedure. Patients should also be in good overall health and have stable body weight. It is recommended that patients consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and to determine if breast augmentation is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before Breast Augmentation:

  1. Consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, risks, and benefits of the procedure.
  2. Pre-operative evaluation and preparation, including medical history review, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies.
  3. Selection of implant type, size, and placement based on patient preferences and anatomy.
  4. Surgical consent and scheduling of the procedure.

After Breast Augmentation:

  1. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, typically lasting 1-2 hours.
  2. Recovery period, including pain management, rest, and limited physical activity.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  4. Gradual return to normal activities, with restrictions on strenuous exercise.
  5. Long-term monitoring of breast health and implant integrity, with possible need for future revisions or replacements.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after breast augmentation can vary depending on individual circumstances and goals, but typically involves thorough pre-operative planning, a surgical procedure, and post-operative recovery and follow-up care to achieve desired results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different surgical techniques available for breast augmentation?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with breast augmentation surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like after breast augmentation surgery?
  4. How long will the results of the surgery last?
  5. Will I need to have any follow-up surgeries or revisions in the future?
  6. How will breast augmentation surgery affect breastfeeding and mammograms?
  7. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to achieving the desired breast appearance?
  8. What type of implants are available and what are the differences between them?
  9. Can I see before and after photos of patients who have had similar procedures?
  10. How experienced are you in performing breast augmentation surgeries?

Reference

Authors: Qureshi AA, Myckatyn TM, Tenenbaum MM. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2018 Mar 14;38(4):374-384. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjx181. PMID: 29365038