Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Breast lifting surgery (mastopexy) can be performed so that the breast volume is maintained but the internal breast tissue is lifted to enhance upper pole fullness of the breast with excess skin (only) being removed. Titus Adams has perfected an “auto-augmentation” technique in which the breast tissue is enhanced without the need for an implant to provide a more natural appearance. This type of surgery is designed for those women who are happy with their size (volume) of breast but feel that there is too much breast sagging with inappropriate nipple position.
There are a number of different approaches to a mastopexy and each one will be described to you at the time of your consultation.
Photographic and video examples of this surgery will be available to patients during the consultation to aid in decision-making.
Mastopexy can also be performed in combination with the use of breast implants. This is predominantly in those women where there there is significant breast skin and soft tissue laxity and a lack of upper pole fullness of the breast. This combination of techniques provides a more robust fullness with a tightening of the breast skin envelope and a nipple lift to achieve a more aesthetic appearance of the whole breast. This combined implant and lift requires significant breast reconstructive skills and experience to balance the competing tension that occurs with “filling” the breast, whilst at the same time “tightening” the breast skin envelope around it.
Photographic and video examples of this surgery will be available to patients during the consultation to aid in decision-making.
Breast lift – removal of 15 year old implants and auto augmentation mastopexy technique in 52 year old (before and 6 months after surgery)
Breast lift – removal of 15 year old implants and auto augmentation mastopexy technique in 52 year old (before and 6 months after surgery)
Breast Reduction
What You Need to Know
Breast reduction surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, and is accompanied by at least one hospital night stay. Smokers and very over-weight women are at greater risk of wound healing problems. Women should be at their desirable weight pre- operatively. Smoking should stop at least two weeks before and after surgery. Smoking can affect both wound healing and the vascular supply to the nipple. Aspirin and related anti-inflammatory medication (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac) should be avoided for a similar period of time to reduce the risk of bleeding. Patients taking the oral contraceptive pill (not HRT) should stop taking this for 4 weeks before surgery, as there is a slight increased risk of thrombosis. Alternative forms of contraception would be required during this time.
On return to the ward, an intravenous fluid drip is used until patients are able to eat and drink. Drainage tubes are often placed into each breast to prevent accumulation of ooze or bleeding in the breast. These drains are removed prior to leaving hospital the next day. Painkillers are provided, but significant pain is not a usual feature following breast surgery. Micropore tape is placed over the scars and the nipples are monitored. Opsite© dressings are used to provide further protection. The supportive sports bra will have been fitted in theatre to help maintain support and shape. Showering is encouraged from 5 days post surgery.
Patients are seen at one week for a wound check and exchange of dressings. Further dressing changes may be required as necessary. An outpatient appointment is made to see Mr Adams at 6 weeks and 6 months; appointments are sent by email.
What Happens when I Leave Hospital?
A soft, front-fastening supportive bra, that protects but does not restrict, with no under wire, should be worn as much as possible day and night to provide shape and support for up to 6 weeks. Thereafter, a normal bra can be used. Accurate bra sizing can be established at 3 months after swelling has receded.
Resources
For more information on Breast Lift surgery, please download our fact sheet.
