A breast lift (mastopexy) may be combined with the insertion of breast implants in a procedure called augmentation mastopexy. This procedure will remedy sagging breasts and simultaneously increase a woman’s cup size. Benefits from this type of surgery will last longer than one might expect because the implant, unlike natural breast tissue, is unaffected by gravity and will retain its height and shape for years to come.

Breast lift surgery is designed to reposition breasts that are sagging to a location higher up on a woman’s chest. In addition to repositioning, the breasts are given a firmer, shapelier contour. The new perky breasts give the entire body a better sense of proportion and a more youthful shape. By making a woman look younger, she feels younger as well.  The combination breast lift may be combined with abdominal surgery in a procedure commonly referred to as “the mommy makeover”.

At your consultation with Dr. Khalifeh at either of his offices in Chevy Chase, or Frederick, Maryland, you will discuss the changes that you wish to make to your appearance. The options available for the surgical incision site will be discussed. The lollipop incision, a circular incision around the areola continuing under the breast half way to where the breast meets the body, is the preferred method.  The areola may be reduced in size and the nipples may be relocated. Other incisions may be used depending upon the size of the breasts and the amount of lift desired. For example, a larger incision is needed if more tissue must be removed to lift the breasts.

Surgery is performed under general anesthesia or twilight anesthesia.  The procedure takes one to three hours with the overall time being dependent upon the technique used. During the breast lift, extra skin on the breast will be removed in the areolar area or from the bottom of the breast. The skin is tightened and the breast implants are inserted.  An overnight stay is not required. The breasts may be sore for the first couple of days, and pain medication will alleviate the soreness. The bandage may be removed in a couple days and the stitches will be removed two weeks after the surgery. Scars will be visible but diminish over time.

If you are a smoker, smoking should cease several weeks before the surgery to improve the blood supply to the tissues. Potential complications, although rare, include infection, capsular contracture (hardening of the implant with formation of scar tissue), numbness of the nipple, deflation of the implant, a wrinkling appearance on the top of the breast, a hematoma and displacement of the implant.