The decision to undergo a Breast Lift is an exciting one. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to better determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision about surgery. I have developed this website as a patient information resource. Hopefully, this site will prepare you for your consultation.

Often times after having children or loosing a large amount of weight, you loose volume and tone in your breasts. If you often wished your breasts were higher and firmer, a breast-lift may be for you.

Procedure

A breast-lift, or mastopexy changes the shape of your breasts from a sagging teardrop to a cone, repositions the nipple to a higher level in the middle of the breast, and reduces the areola to a more pleasing size. If you have lost breast volume, and would like to add more fullness, implants may be inserted during surgery. Mastopexy may be performed in many ways, depending on the size and shape of your breasts and the amount of extra skin to be removed. The incisions used in mastopexy may be customized based on the size and shape of the breasts, and therefore varies from patient to patient. During your mastopexy, Dr. Kole removes excess skin, lifts the nipple, and pulls together and sutures the breast, which improves the shape and contour. The incision lines are designed so that they will be concealed under your bra. The resulting scars are permanent, but should fade over time.

Ideal Candidates

• Patients with breasts that lack firmness.
• Patients with nipples that point downward.
• Patients with sagging breasts.
• Patients who are in good health.
• Patients with realistic expectations.
• Patients who are doing it for the right reasons (i.e. for themselves)

Risks and Complications

Risks and complications may include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, change in nipple and skin sensation, skin scarring, excessive firmness, delayed healing, asymmetry, allergic reactions, risks and complications associated with anesthesia. Keep in mind that although complications can occur, they are rare.

Risks and potential complications of surgery are best discussed at the time of your consultation.

Smokers and Diabetics have a greater risk of pulmonary, and wound healing complications.

Breast disease and breast cancer can occur independently of breast lift-surgery.

Mastopexy is not known to interfere with pregnancy or breast-feeding. However if you are planning a pregnancy, your breast skin may stretch while you’re pregnant and diminish the results of the mastopexy.

Recovery

Dr. Kole recommends wearing a soft, support bra without an under-wire for the first two months. As with all surgery swelling and bruising should be expected, but will improve with time. After two weeks you may resume most of your normal activities, including mild exercise. After four to six weeks more strenuous activities may be resumed. After a few months, your breasts will settle to a more natural shape. Breast scars are considered permanent, but should fade over time.

In/Out Patient

This procedure is usually performed as an outpatient under general anesthesia. The surgery usually takes two to three hours.

Call Dr. Kole for a complimentary consultation: 215-354-1010

For more information on Breast Lift, see our Breast Lift FAQ page.