Because of factors like gravity, breastfeeding, genetics, and dramatic weight gain/loss, women the world over experience drooping breasts. Additionally, many women feel that their breasts are too small and do not have enough projection. These two issues can make women self-conscious and can cause self-esteem problems.
To lift sagging breasts while adding volume and projection, plastic surgeons perform a combination breast enhancement procedure known as augmentation mastopexy. This procedure combines a breast lift (mastopexy) and a breast augmentation with implants (augmentation mammaplasty).
The Augmentation Mastopexy Procedure
During a consultation at our office, the patient’s aesthetic goals are discussed. A physical evaluation is performed, and then the plastic surgeon develops a surgical plan to help the patient meet her goals.
The augmentation mastopexy process typically lasts for about four hours and is usually completed under general anesthesia. First, the incisions are created. These can be made in the armpit (the axillary incision), the breast fold (the inframammary incision), or around the areola (the periareolar incision).
The skilled surgeon then creates a pocket within the tissue and places the breast implant snugly within. The implant’s position relative to the chest muscles will be discussed beforehand as part of the consultation.
Once the implants have been inserted, excess drooping skin is trimmed from the breasts in order to make them lifted and perkier. After this process is accomplished, the surgeon closes up the incisions using medical stitches. Gauze and bandages are used to cover the area. To drain away excess fluid, the patient may have a drainage tube inserted in the surgical region.
Post-Surgical Care
Patients may feel a degree of temporary discomfort in the area after surgery. The patient is provided with medication to alleviate any pain and discomfort.
Once a couple of days have passed, the bandages are removed and the patient is required to wear a loose-fitting bra for support. Bruising and swelling are normal issues, and wearing this bra will help to keep them to a minimum. Medical stitches are removed as part of a follow-up appointment around two weeks after augmentation mastopexy.
The healing process after the surgery takes a couple of weeks. During recovery, women who have undergone the procedure are advised to avoid any form of strenuous physical activity, including heavy exercise, in order to make sure the incisions continue to heal properly.
Patients may experience temporary dryness in the nipples and areolae, which is normal. Using a moisturizing lotion that does not tug at the skin is advised.
The recovery period goes on for about a month or two. The most important part of the recovery process is making sure to follow the plastic surgeon’s post-operative care directions as closely as possible.
Scheduling Your Consultation
Dr. Pat Pazmiño, an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon serving patients in the Miami area, will be happy to help you rejuvenate and enhance your breasts. If you would like to get started with the process of augmentation mastopexy, it’s best to contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Pazmiño.
