A breast lift will raise and reshape breasts that have become out of shape because of pregnancy or time. It is a permanent improvement in breast shape and size. This procedure can be used in conjunction with breast implants to increase both firmness and size.
Benefits of breast lift
Breast lift surgery is effective in lifting and reshaping saggy breasts for both smaller and larger breasted patients. In some cases, smaller breasts may retain their lift results longer after a breast lift than larger breasts. This is because the weight of larger breasts works against the changes made during the plastic surgery.
Best candidates for breast lift
Improving your breast shape can improve self confidence and change how you are perceived by others. The procedure, however, does not completely change who you are and may not meet unrealistic expectations. The procedure also does not permanently change the breast shape and firmness. You may expect the effects of aging and gravity to continue through time. In these cases, a secondary revision surgery may be required. The best candidates for this cosmetic surgery are women who are emotionally well-adjusted, have realistic expectations, and a thorough understanding of the procedure.
Preparation for breast lift
Before you undergo a breast lift, it is important for you to discuss any medical conditions that you have and to tell your surgeon about any medications that you are taking including any herbal or other non-prescription ones. If your surgeon decides that you can have a breast lift, discuss the procedure thoroughly with him or her before deciding if you want to go through with the procedure. Even though your surgeon says that you may does not mean that you must decide to have a breast lift. You may still change your mind even after discussing the procedure with your surgeon.
The surgeon will consult with you either by email or on the phone prior to your departure to understand your requests fully, and will also detail the procedure, benefits and risks and answer any questions you have. He may require additional information from you before booking the procedure - including a photo, and a doctor's medical report. The assessment with the surgeon will give you a detailed understanding of the treatment - the extent of surgery, your health evaluation, your expectations and exactly what parts of the body will be treated. When you are happy with what has been discussed, and have signed a booking form for the operation, the surgery will be booked at a date agreed.
Your surgeon should be able to answer any questions that you have about a breast lift including questions about what to expect during and after a breast lift and the complications or problems that sometimes occur with a breast lift. You may also take information from this website to your appointment to discuss with him.
You will then have another consultation with the surgeon when you arrive in Malaysia, where he will have a physical evaluation of the areas to be treated. At this appointment you and your surgeon will discuss your goals, and last queries you have and finalize the plan for surgery.
Surgical procedure
The operation is carried out under general anesthetic, and requires an overnight stay. The procedure may vary, but usually, the excess skin is removed and the nipple is elevated so it sits higher on the breast mound. The degree of lift needed generally will determine the number and length of the incisions. The more lift a patient needs, the more likely the patient will need a lift with more extensive incisions.
Some patients, especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging, may be modified procedures requiring less extensive incisions.
The anchor incision technique with three incisions is typically used by our surgeons:
The first incision is around the areola, extending above it and creating a new position for the nipple.
The second incision runs vertically from the nipple down to the bottom of the breast.
The third incision runs on the underside of the breast just above the fold under the breast.
These incisions create flaps where excess skin will be removed.
Excess skin may also be removed as the nipple and areola are moved to a higher location on the breast. The nipple is normally positioned so that it will be even (vertically) with the lower crease between the breast and chest. The skin that was previously above the nipple is brought down around the nipple and sutured together under the breast. The nipple and areola remain connected to the underlying breast tissue and the associated nerve and blood supply, reducing the chances of sensation loss.
If a breast implant is combined with the breast lift, it will be placed in a pocket under, partially under or completely under the pectoral muscle..
Recovery and Post-op care
How bruised, sore, and swollen your breasts are after surgery, depends on individual. You can expect to wear a surgical bra for several days, or until swelling has subsided. Your surgeon will prescribe a pain reliever or creams if necessary - however, do not take aspirin for 2 weeks after surgery as it can increase the risk of bleeding. Stitches will be removed after two weeks.
After a few days, the discomfort will subside, however the recovery time varies from person to person. The nursing team will observe you and be on call if you have any concerns and to make sure you are recovering well. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, and eat nourishing foods.
Heavy lifting or straining should be avoided after surgery for at least a month because this can cause the breasts to swell and increase pressure. You can typically return to full activity within a few weeks.
We provide excellent post-care support, with follow-up visits and programs to assist your recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know and we will schedule an appointment with the surgeon.
The procedure does leave scars, although they'll be covered by your bra or bathing suit. The scars will heal over time, depending on your health and age.
Other recommended procedures with a breast lift
Many people who travel to Malaysia have more than one procedure because of the cost advantages and also for a more balanced look. Breast impants are commonly done in conjunction with this procedure.
Your new look
A breast lift is permanent, however, breast size and shape will change with gravity over time and during the normal stages of life - pregnancy, weight loss and gain and ageing.
Your surgeon will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Still, it's important to remember that breast lift scars may be extensive and permanent. They often remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious, sometimes eventually fading to thin white lines. Fortunately, the scars can usually be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops.
Results may last longer or be enhanced when breast implants are inserted as part of the procedure.
Preconditions and Risks
We minimize risks and complications by selecting patients carefully and always having the most skilled surgeons, physicians and nurses carry out procedures. However, despite the highest standards, complications like infections or excessive bleeding can occur. They are rare, and most patients will not have complications, but if you have concerns about possible complications, please discuss these with your doctor. Other possible risks include thick, wide scars; skin loss; unevenly positioned nipples; and permanent loss of feeling in nipples or breast.