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WHAT IS A BREAST LIFT?
There are many factors that can cause a woman’s breasts to sag, including pregnancy, and breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and even genetics. A breast lift is done to raise the breasts to a more youthful position and aesthetically pleasing breast shape by removing excess skin and tightening internal tissues.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR BREAST LIFT IN PORTLAND?
Women who have sagging, uneven breasts, decreased breast volume, or downward-pointing nipples can restore the youthful shape and positioning of their breasts with a breast lift. Breast lifts can be done with or without a simultaneous breast augmentation procedure depending on your goals. A consultation with Dr. Fichadia can help to determine if this procedure is right for you.
Types of Breast Drops
Empty Sac Syndrome
This condition occurs when the breast tissue loses volume, often following pregnancy or weight loss, resulting in a deflated appearance. The skin may become loose, and the breasts may appear to sag significantly.
Pseudoptosis
In pseudoptosis, the nipple remains above the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast), but the lower portion of the breast sags. This type of breast drop commonly occurs in women with a loss of fullness in the upper breast.
Ptosis
Ptosis refers to the drooping of the entire breast, where the nipple droops below the inframammary fold. The degree of ptosis can vary from mild to severe and is often categorized based on how far the nipple has sagged.
Types of Breast Lift Incisions
Anchor Lift
The anchor lift is ideal for women with significant sagging. It involves an incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. This technique provides the most dramatic lift and reshaping.
Donut Lift (Circumareolar)
The donut lift involves a circular incision around the areola and is suitable for women with mild to moderate sagging. This technique allows for subtle lifting and minimal scarring.
Crescent Lift
The crescent lift is a less invasive option that involves a small incision along the upper half of the areola. It’s best for women with minimal sagging and can be combined with breast augmentation.
Lollipop Lift (Vertical)
The lollipop lift involves an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. This technique is suitable for moderate sagging.
Alternatives to Surgery
Botox
Botox injections can be used to temporarily lift the breasts by relaxing certain muscles, although the effects are minimal and temporary.
Breast Lift Creams
Some topical creams claim to firm and tighten the skin around the breasts. While results can vary, these creams may offer minor improvements when used consistently.
“Vampire” Breast Lift
This non-surgical procedure uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to stimulate collagen production and enhance the appearance of the breasts. While results are subtle, some women find it helps with skin texture and firmness.
Chest Exercises
Strengthening the pectoral muscles through targeted exercises can improve the appearance of the chest area and create a slight lifting effect, although it won’t directly address sagging breast tissue.
A Better Bra
Wearing a well-fitted, supportive bra can help lift and shape the breasts, providing a non-invasive way to improve appearance and comfort.
What to Expect During the Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Fichadia will take the time to understand your concerns and goals for breast enhancement. Dr. Fichadia will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin quality, and overall health to determine your most suitable options. Whether you are considering a surgical breast lift or exploring non-surgical alternatives, Dr. Fichadia will provide personalized recommendations and answer any questions you have.
THE BREAST LIFT PROCEDURE
There are three main incision patterns that are used during breast lift procedures. These include:
- Donut Incision – created around just the areola.
- Lollipop Incision – created around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
- Anchor Incision – created around the nipple-areola complex, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally across the breast crease.
The incision pattern that is right for you will depend on your individual anatomy, amount of breast sag, and desired results.
After the incision pattern is created, underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped and the nipple is repositioned. Excess breast tissue is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened.
RESULTS AND RECOVERY
Following breast lift surgery, compression garments will need to be worn to help reduce swelling. Excessive physical activity should be avoided for at least two weeks, and some patients are able to return to work within 7-10 days, depending on the job. Any discomfort that occurs can be controlled with pain medication.
Risks of Breast Lift
A breast lift involves the potential risks of infection, scarring, and changes in nipple sensation. Discussing these possible risks with Dr. Fichadia during your consultation is vital to making an informed decision. While a breast lift can provide long-lasting results, it’s essential to have realistic expectations and understand aging and gravity will continue to affect the breasts over time.
Breast Lift Surgery in Portland, Oregon
Getting a breast lift or breast implants can be an empowering way to enhance your breast size while remaining incredibly natural-looking for your ideal body contour, especially after life events or aging leave you feeling unlike your former self. If you are interested in learning more about breast lift surgery, contact our office today to start your breast enhancement journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast lift cost?
How long do breast lift results last?
Is a breast lift covered by insurance?
Can saggy breasts be lifted without implants?
Can sagging breasts be lifted with exercise?
Is getting a breast lift safe?
Dr. Fichadia is a double board-certified, comprehensively trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She completed general surgical training at St Elizabeth’s Medical Center, an affiliate of Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA, and subsequently completed a highly competitive plastic surgery program at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. She has presented research from her time in Boston and Portland at national and international surgical meetings such as Clinical Congress of the American College of Surgeons and annual meeting of American Society of Plastic Surgery.
