Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy)

Many women feel that their breasts do not match their overall body physique. Droopy breasts may be the result of pregnancy or the aging process. Such changes most frequently occur for hereditary reasons during menarche, pregnancy or following menopause; or at any time during a woman's life as a result of weight gain.

Although the goals of breast reduction and breast uplift procedures are different, the procedures will be discussed together because the pre-operative preparation, surgical incision, and postoperative course are quite similar. In both procedures, incisions are designed to create a more youthful and natural shaped breast. In both procedures, this involves elevating the nipple/areola complex from a lower, more droopy position, to a more natural position on the center of the breast mound.    In addition to reshaping the breast, in a reduction, excess tissue is removed and the patient will end up with a smaller cup size.     With a pure uplift, shape is improved but cup size stays unchanged.     Occasionally, the patient may desire a small breast implant at the time of an uplift procedure if the patient perceives mat the breasts are not only too droopy, but too small as well. 

The following information has been prepared to familiarize you with facts about the surgical procedures known as reduction mammoplasty (breast reduction) and mastopexy (breast uplift). You are requested to read this information thoroughly and to discuss any questions, which might arise with your surgeon before proceeding with either a breast reduction or an uplift procedure. You are also requested to keep this form as a reference in the post-operative period.