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Do You Have Drooping Breasts and Want a More Long-Lasting Lift? Consider an Internal Bra

If your breasts are sagging or loose, you might be thinking about getting a breast lift, commonly known as mastopexy. One modern option you could look into is the internal bra lift, which can be done on its own or alongside a breast enlargement or reduction.

The internal bra lift is specially designed for women who want a breast lift that’s both strong and long-lasting. During the procedure, your surgeon will tighten, lift, and secure your inner breast tissue with durable stitches. The deep tissue inside your breasts is then reshaped, creating a hammock-like structure to support your breasts and keep them lifted for a longer time.

RELATED: How To Get Perky Breasts

When people talk about an ‘internal bra’ in the context of breast surgery, they’re referring to a range of techniques aimed at giving your breasts internal support, similar to how a bra works. This extra support helps counteract the effects of gravity over time, making it more likely that you’ll keep that newly-lifted look for years to come.

Here at Centre for Surgery, located in London, our skilled plastic surgeons are known for their expertise in advanced surgical techniques. We’re committed to delivering the best possible results for all of our breast surgery patients.

What is an Internal Bra Lift?

The internal bra lift is a relatively new and advanced breast lift technique, also known as mastopexy. This method provides internal support to your breast tissue, helping to maintain the lifted appearance for a longer time. It’s a versatile procedure that can be used in various types of breast surgeries, such as breast reductions, traditional breast lifts, and breast augmentations.

How Does it Work?

In an internal bra lift, the surgeon lifts and repositions your internal breast tissue and fat. They then secure it in a higher position using sutures or stitches. This technique creates a hammock-like support from your own connective tissue that holds the breasts up against gravity.

Why Choose an Internal Bra Lift?

The standout feature of this procedure is its long-lasting support. Traditional mastopexy techniques might offer a lift, but the effects can diminish over time due to the pull of gravity. The internal bra lift, however, offers more durable results, almost as if you’re wearing an internal bra.

Applicability and Versatility

The internal bra lift can be performed alone through a small incision around the areola, known as a periareolar incision. Alternatively, it can be combined with other breast surgeries like breast augmentations or reductions. It’s a flexible option that can be tailored to your specific needs and desires.

Advantages with Implants

If you’re considering breast implants, adding an internal bra lift can offer added benefits. It helps prevent the implant from sinking or “bottoming out” by tightening the pocket where the implant sits and supporting it from below with the internal hammock.

Safety and Expertise at Centre for Surgery

Our surgeons at Centre for Surgery in London are experienced in performing the internal bra lift procedure, either as a standalone surgery or in combination with other types of breast surgeries, with or without implants. We are committed to offering you the best surgical techniques that are tailored to your individual needs.

Why Our Surgeons Opt for Natural Tissue in Internal Bra Lift Procedures

Various methods can be used in internal bra lift surgery, from using your own body tissue to employing different types of mesh, such as dissolvable stitches, silk mesh, or even a skin substitute called dermal substitute. However, using foreign materials comes with its own set of challenges.

One of the main concerns with using synthetic materials is the elevated risk of delayed infection and rejection. That’s why our preferred approach at Centre for Surgery is to use the patient’s own natural tissue, combined with a series of carefully placed sutures, for internal breast support. It’s essential for patients looking into the internal bra technique to fully understand what materials will be used and to be comfortable with the chosen method.

Some surgeons may opt to use silk mesh or what is known as acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to create an internal hammock-like support structure. However, here at Centre for Surgery, we generally avoid using these materials in order to minimise the risk of complications like infection and breast deformity. We reserve the use of synthetic mesh for more complex or revision cases.

By using the patient’s native tissue, we aim to provide a safer and more natural outcome, aligning with our commitment to achieving optimal results for all of our breast surgery patients.

Exploring the Benefits of Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy

When considering breast lift surgery options, many patients are drawn to the internal bra lift mastopexy for a variety of reasons. This innovative surgical technique offers multiple advantages, making it increasingly popular among our breast surgery patients not just in London, but across the UK.

RELATED: What Is Mastopexy?

While it’s crucial to remember that this procedure isn’t suitable for everyone and the benefits might vary from person to person, here are some general advantages that many patients experience:

Longer-Lasting Results

One of the most attractive benefits of internal bra lift mastopexy is its durability. Unlike traditional breast lift techniques, which may lose their effect over time due to gravity, the internal bra lift offers a hammock-like support from your own tissue. This helps to maintain the lifted appearance of your breasts for a much longer time, giving you value for your investment.

Reduced Risk of Implant Displacement

If you’re considering augmenting your breasts with implants, the internal bra lift can offer extra security. It helps to tighten the breast pocket around the implant and provides support from below. This minimises the risk of implants moving downward or “bottoming out,” thereby maintaining the aesthetic results for a longer period.

Enhanced Inframammary Support

The internal bra lift technique provides robust support at the inframammary fold, which is the natural crease below the breast. This is crucial for maintaining not just the shape of the breasts but also the position of any implants you might have. The internal support system serves to keep everything in place, giving you a more youthful and natural-looking contour.

Comparing Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy and Traditional Breast Lift Mastopexy: What You Need to Know

When it comes to choosing a breast lift procedure, you’ll likely encounter two main options: the internal bra lift mastopexy and the traditional breast lift mastopexy. While both aim to lift and reshape the breasts, they offer different advantages and can even be combined for maximum effectiveness.

Durability and Longevity: One of the most significant differences lies in durability. The internal bra lift mastopexy is often cited as being more long-lasting than the traditional approach. The method creates a hammock-like structure from your own breast tissue to support the lower part of the breasts. This internal support helps combat the natural effects of gravity over time, providing a long-lasting lift that many find preferable.

Added Support and Prevention: The internal bra lift mastopexy also offers the benefit of preventing breast implants from shifting or ‘bottoming out.’ The hammock-like support fortifies the inframammary line, the natural crease below your breasts, which helps maintain the implant’s position and overall breast shape.

Can They Be Combined? The good news is that these two techniques are not mutually exclusive. In fact, adding internal bra support to a traditional breast lift can combine the benefits of both, providing an enhanced, more durable result. This hybrid approach can offer a solution for those seeking both the reshaping of a traditional lift and the longevity of an internal bra lift.

What Materials Are Used for the Internal Bra?

At Centre for Surgery, our preferred approach for internal bra lift mastopexy is to use the patient’s own breast tissue to create an internal sling or ‘bra.’ This is then strengthened with dissolvable sutures, which are absorbed by the body over a span of 3 to 6 months. During this time, your body’s own collagen forms its own durable internal support structures, enhancing the longevity and effectiveness of the lift.

By understanding the differences and potential benefits of these procedures, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and desired outcomes.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for an Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy?

When contemplating breast surgery, one option that often comes up for consideration is the internal bra lift mastopexy. This innovative procedure is an excellent add-on to various types of cosmetic breast surgeries and offers several benefits, such as prolonged lift and additional support. But who exactly is the right candidate for this procedure? Let’s explore.

Key Indicators You’re a Suitable Candidate:

Undergoing Other Breast Procedures: If you’re already planning on having a breast augmentation, reduction, or a traditional lift (mastopexy), then adding an internal bra can amplify the results.
Mild to Moderate Breast Sagging (Ptosis): This technique is particularly beneficial if you have mild to moderate sagging of the breasts. The internal bra offers added lift and support, making it a suitable option for those who require moderate correction.
Seeking Additional Implant Support: If you’re getting breast implants, the internal bra lift can provide additional support to the implant pocket, reducing the risk of the implant ‘bottoming out.’
Looking for Longevity: If your main concern is how long the effects of a breast lift will last, the internal bra can offer a more durable, long-lasting lift.
Desiring More Support at the Inframammary Fold: The internal bra can reinforce the natural crease below the breasts, helping to maintain the shape and position of both natural breast tissue and implants.
Opting for an Inverted T Incision: If your surgery involves an inverted T incision, commonly used in significant lifts and reductions, the internal bra can maximise the lifting and supporting effects of the surgery.

General Health Requirements: It goes without saying that any candidate for a surgical procedure like mastopexy needs to be in good overall health. Additionally, you’ll need to quit smoking at least a month before surgery to reduce the risk of complications.

How an Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy is Carried Out at Our Baker Street Facility: A Step-by-Step Overview

An internal bra lift mastopexy is a specialised procedure that requires the expertise of a qualified plastic surgeon. Conducted at our state-of-the-art surgical facility on Baker Street, the surgery aims to lift and support the breasts for a more youthful and enhanced appearance. Below, we outline the general steps involved in the procedure, keeping in mind that the specific surgical techniques can vary depending on whether you’re getting an internal bra lift as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with other breast surgeries.

Preparation and Anesthesia: Upon arrival, you’ll be prepared for surgery and general anaesthesia will be administered. This ensures that you’re asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Making the Incisions: Once the anaesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will make the incisions on the breast, the location and size of which will vary depending on your specific needs and the combination of procedures you may be undergoing.

Separating Skin from Underlying Tissue: The surgeon will carefully separate the breast skin from the underlying layers of muscle, fat, and connective tissue. This step allows for precise manipulation of the deeper tissues to create the lift.

Trimming and Tightening: Any excess tissue is removed, and the remaining tissue is tightened. The surgeon then crafts a hammock-like structure from your own connective tissue, which will serve as the internal bra that holds the breasts in a higher position.

Suturing for Support: Strong sutures are used to fix this hammock-like support to the chest wall, ensuring that the lift is both secure and long-lasting.

Removing Excess Skin: After lifting the breast tissue to the desired position, any remaining excess skin is removed. This is a crucial step as it allows for a firmer, more youthful breast contour.

Closing the Incisions: Finally, the skin is tightened and the incisions are closed using thin, carefully placed sutures to minimize scarring.

The entire procedure is carried out with the utmost attention to detail and a focus on achieving the best possible outcome for each individual patient. After surgery, you’ll be closely monitored to ensure a safe and smooth recovery.

Getting an Internal Bra Lift with Breast Implants: What to Expect

If you’re planning on having breast implants and are also considering an internal bra lift, here’s how the procedure generally goes down. First off, the surgeon will place the breast implants. Once they’re in, the focus shifts to tightening the natural tissue around these implants to keep them secure and in the right position. This is when the internal bra lift really shows its worth.

RELATED: Breast Lift with Implants

The internal bra lift offers loads of support to the lower part of the breast implant, basically the area underneath the implant. It helps keep everything in place and provides a level of support that you’d want, especially when you’re getting implants. So, in simple terms, the internal bra lift acts like an internal support system, making sure your new implants sit properly and stay looking good for a longer time.

What to Expect During Recovery After Surgery Using the Internal Bra Method

If you’ve had breast surgery using the Internal Bra Technique, you might be wondering what the recovery process will be like. Overall, it’s pretty similar to what you’d go through with more traditional types of breast surgery.

Firstly, don’t be surprised if you feel a bit sore, or if you notice swelling and some bruising. This is completely normal and should improve gradually over several weeks. To help with this, your surgeon will probably give you a special surgical bra to wear. This isn’t just for comfort; it’s actually designed to support your breasts while they heal and to keep swelling to a minimum.

You’ll likely be given some medications to manage any pain and to reduce the risk of infection. Make sure to take these as directed, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your medical team if you have any questions or concerns about your meds or symptoms.

Strenuous physical activity is a no-no during the recovery period. Stick to light activities and follow your surgeon’s advice about when it’s okay to return to your regular routine. This will help you avoid complications and promote faster healing.

If you follow all the care guidelines and recommendations, you can generally expect to be back to your normal activities within a few weeks. Of course, recovery times can vary from person to person, so it’s always good to consult with your surgeon for the most personalised advice.

Understanding the Risks and Complications Associated with Internal Bra Lift Surgery

While internal bra lift surgery is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it does come with some risks and possible complications. These are relatively rare but are worth being aware of.

Short-Term Postoperative Risks:

Wound infection, which is more likely if synthetic mesh is used
Loss of feeling around the nipple area
Difficulty or inability to breastfeed
Bleeding during or after the procedure
Formation of a haematoma, or collection of blood
Formation of a seroma, or collection of fluid
Excessive scarring at the incision sites

Long-Term Complications:

Deformation due to the formation of fibrous tissue, especially when synthetic mesh is used
Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to feel hard
The implant ‘bottoming out,’ although this is less likely compared to traditional breast lifts
Implant rupture or leakage
Malposition of the implant
Loss of sensation in parts of the breast

How to Minimise Risks: To make the procedure as safe as possible, it’s crucial to choose an experienced cosmetic breast surgeon. At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons have honed their techniques to offer internal bra lifts that don’t require the use of synthetic mesh. This approach has been shown to reduce the likelihood of complications like infections and deformities due to internal scarring. Always consult with your surgeon for personalised advice tailored to your health and surgical needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Internal Bra Lift Surgery

Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy FAQs – Questions about an Internal Bra

Can you still breastfeed after having an internal bra lift?

Yes, it’s quite likely that you’ll be able to breastfeed after an internal bra lift. Although some milk ducts may be affected during the surgery, many will remain functional. It’s crucial to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with your surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic breast surgery to get a better understanding of how it might affect you.

How long will the effects of an internal bra lift last?

An internal bra lift is designed to be long-lasting. Many people find that the benefits last for up to 10 years or even more. However, it’s worth noting that the natural ageing process and gravity will continue to affect your breasts over time. If you notice significant changes, you may consider revision surgery a decade or more after the original operation.

Can you have an internal bra lift without getting implants?

Absolutely, you can have an internal bra lift without also getting breast implants. However, some women opt to combine the internal bra lift with breast augmentation to restore any lost volume and achieve a fuller look.

Is an internal bra lift better than a traditional breast lift?

Both types of breast lifts have their advantages. An internal bra lift may be more suitable for those who require moderate lifting and want to minimise scarring. On the other hand, a traditional breast lift, often performed using an “inverted-T” incision, provides more extensive lifting and may be better suited for women with more significant sagging, also known as severe breast ptosis.

How long does the internal bra lift procedure take?

The duration of an internal bra lift operation can vary based on your individual needs and whether you’re also getting breast implants. Generally, if you’re having both an internal bra lift and breast augmentation, the surgery could take 2 to 3 hours.

What’s the best way to keep my breast implants in place?

Gravity continues to work post-surgery, so to help maintain the results, it’s recommended to wear a well-fitted, supportive bra. Doing so will aid in prolonging the positive effects of your surgery. Failure to wear a supportive bra can result in your implants and breast tissue sagging over time.

What does “inframammary incision” mean?

The term “inframammary incision” refers to a surgical cut made in the fold underneath the breast, also known as the inframammary fold (IMF). This is one of the locations where an incision can be made to place a breast implant.

What does it look like when a breast implant “bottoms out”?

Bottoming-out refers to a complication where the breast implant moves below its intended position, causing deformities such as a “double-bubble” appearance. This happens when the implant slips down below the natural fold of the breast. Alternatively, the weight of the implant may stretch the lower part of the breast, causing the tissue to hang below the nipple and making the nipple appear unusually high on the breast.

How is a “bottomed-out” breast implant corrected?

Correcting a bottomed-out implant is a complex procedure that usually requires revision surgery. The primary goal is to re-establish the desired breast size and shape, which might involve changing the size of the implant or using internal techniques to better support the implant. Because this is a more complicated surgery than the initial implant placement, it needs to be customised to your specific needs and anatomy.

Will the issue of bottoming out worsen over time?

Yes, once bottoming out starts, the breast implant generally continues to descend slowly over time. The best non-surgical approach to slow down this process is to wear a well-fitted, supportive bra. However, correcting bottoming out ultimately requires surgical intervention.

How can I prevent my breast implants from dropping?

To prevent your breast implants from dropping, consistent support is crucial. We advise patients to wear a bra that is both the correct size and provides good support. Doing so will help maintain the position of both the implants and natural breast tissue over the long term.

Are internal stitches used in breast augmentation?

Yes, internal stitches are often used during breast augmentation procedures. After the implant has been placed in the created pocket, the lower section of this pocket is supported with an ‘internal bra.’ This involves using sutures to re-attach the breast ligaments and tissue to the chest wall, reducing the risk of complications like bottoming out or double-bubble deformities.

Is an internal bra lift a painful procedure?

Generally, using an internal bra technique doesn’t increase postoperative pain compared to traditional methods. While you can expect some level of discomfort, it’s usually well-managed with over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol. Moreover, this technique doesn’t generally extend the recovery period.

Is a breast lift safer than getting implants?

Both procedures—breast lifts (mastopexy) and breast augmentation (implants)—have similar immediate risks. However, implants may come with additional long-term complications, such as the implant moving out of place, bottoming out, forming a fibrous capsule around the implant (capsular contracture), or even rupturing.

When can I stop wearing a sports bra after breast augmentation?

For the initial six weeks following breast augmentation, we recommend that patients wear a soft, wire-free sports bra. This type of bra allows for comfortable movement and helps manage swelling. After the six-week period, and once any swelling has fully subsided, you’re free to choose a bra that suits your lifestyle and needs.

Why Choose Centre for Surgery for Your Breast Surgery?

When it comes to making a life-changing decision like breast surgery, you want to be sure you’re in the best hands. At Centre for Surgery, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional patient care, advanced surgical techniques, and an individualised approach to meet your unique needs. Here are some compelling reasons why Centre for Surgery is your top choice for breast surgery:

Expert Surgical Team

Our surgeons are among the best in the field, each with years of specialised training and experience in cosmetic breast surgery. They are dedicated to offering you the safest, most effective procedures, always keeping your wellbeing in mind.

Cutting-Edge Technology

We use the latest in medical technology to ensure precise and efficient surgeries. From 3D imaging to minimally invasive techniques, we continually update our equipment and methodologies.

Comprehensive Consultation

We believe in thorough pre-operative assessments and personalized consultation sessions. Our surgeons will discuss all your options, helping you make an informed decision that’s best for you.

Patient-Centric Approach

Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our attentive staff is always available to address any questions or concerns, making sure your experience is as smooth as possible from start to finish.

Tailored Aftercare

We offer a structured aftercare programme to monitor your recovery closely. With regular follow-ups, we ensure that you’re healing well and are happy with the results.

What Our Patients Say

“I had a wonderful experience at Centre for Surgery. The staff were so friendly, and the surgeon took his time to explain everything to me. I felt comfortable throughout the entire journey.”
— Sarah, Breast Augmentation

“Amazing results! After years of considering breast reduction, I’m so glad I finally went ahead with it, and even more glad that I chose Centre for Surgery. Thank you for changing my life.”
— Emily, Breast Reduction

“I couldn’t be happier with my breast lift. The team at Centre for Surgery is exceptional. They cared for me like I was family. Highly recommend!”
— Chloe, Mastopexy

Book Your Consultation Today

Ready to take the next step in your journey towards achieving the look you’ve always wanted? Schedule your consultation with us today to discuss your options and have all your questions answered.

📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849
📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
📍 Address: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN

Your new beginning starts here at Centre for Surgery. We look forward to being a part of your transformation.

Internal Bra Lift Technique for Breast Surgery