Women with unusually large, sagging or uneven breasts are often dissatisfied with their physical appearance. Excessively large breasts may need to be made smaller with a breast reduction. If the breast has lost volume due to weight loss or pregnancy, a breast lift without reduction may be more desirable. In some cases, a breast implant may be placed to replace lost volume and fullness. Reduction of only one breast with lifting of both may produce better symmetry.

Today, because of advances in surgical techniques, thousands of women with these problems are being helped through a surgical procedure called Mastopexy or breast lift. This surgery is designed to improve the contour, shape and fullness of the breast and help the patient feel better about her appearance.

Before Surgery

Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. The breasts are examined thoroughly to determine the most effective surgical approach and to search for abnormal lumps or growths. Dr. Galoob will discuss the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected and possible risks and complications. A breast implant may be recommended to provide more fullness of the upper breast. Dr. Galoob will discuss the issues involved and the pros and cons of the procedure with you.

Mammograms will be done and photographs taken. Preoperative instructions often include the elimination of certain drugs (aspirin, garlic, Arthritis medications, etc.) for a week before surgery in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Patients are advised to refrain from smoking before surgery for at least one week and for two weeks after the procedure. Patients who smoke have a higher risk of poor healing and other problems.

The Procedure

Dr. Galoob commonly performs breast lifts in his AAAHC accredited Office Surgical Facility (www.aaahc.com ). It is also sometimes performed in a local outpatient surgical facility. There are a number of techniques for breast lift. Dr. Galoob uses techniques that retain nipple sensitivity, a natural appearing nipple/areola area and allows breast-feeding if desired. This procedure leaves an inverted T shaped scar. A breast lift can take several hours depending upon the extent of the surgery.

Following Surgery

Following surgery, the patient wears bandages and a brassiere for support. Dr. Galoob performs these procedures on an outpatient basis and the patient stays at home or in a local hotel for one to two days. Pain connected with the procedure is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Antibiotics are given at the time of surgery and continued post operatively for several days to prevent infection.

Instructions for the day of surgery include bed rest with limited activities. More normal activity can be resumed in a few days. Strenuous exercise and overhead lifting must be avoided for several weeks.

Sutures are removed in seven to fourteen days. Numbness around the treated area may occur, but this condition is usually temporary. Swelling and discoloration disappear in a few days, and scars from the incision, although permanent, fade significantly with time.

Complications are rare. Patients can minimize complications by carefully following Dr. Galoob's instructions. Some patients who experience poor healing may require additional treatment.

Questions and Answers

Will I be able to Breast Feed?

Dr. Galoob utilizes newer techniques of nipple-areola relocation (shifting) that preserve the ducts to the nipple along with sensation and blood supply. Women who have had this type of procedure can breast feed after the surgery. More than 80% retain sensation and natural appearance of the nipple-areola area.

When Can I go back to work?

Most women can return to restricted activity within 1 week, normal activity within 4 weeks. The time of return to work depends on the type of job and whether adequate healing has occurred.

Will this operation help my neck and back pain?

Breast lift alone without reduction of breast size is not expected to improve neck and back pain.

Will insurance pay for this Surgery?

Insurance companies will not normally pay for this surgery.

How do I decide if a breast implant is needed?

If there is excess breast skin and loss of volume, a breast implant may be desirable to regain fullness. Dr. Galoob will discuss the pros and cons of this with you in detail.

If you are interested in learning more about Breast Lifting contact us and we will be happy to answer your questions.