What Is Augmentation Mastopexy?

Comprehensive Guide to Breast Augmentation and Mastopexy

Breast augmentation is a highly sought-after procedure for enhancing breast size. Often referred to as a “boob job,” this surgery involves inserting silicone implants to enlarge and shape the breasts. While breast augmentation effectively increases breast size, it also has a significant impact on the overall contour and appearance of the breasts.

On the other hand, a mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, addresses issues of sagging or drooping breasts. This condition can result from various factors, including ageing, weight loss, breastfeeding, and pregnancy. A breast lift repositions the breasts higher on the chest, creating a firmer and more youthful appearance. This procedure often includes repositioning the nipple and areola for a natural look. There are several techniques for performing a breast lift, such as the inverted T lift, vertical lift and periareolar lift.

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Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift does not increase breast size but focuses on lifting and firming the breasts. For patients desiring both increased breast size and a lifted appearance, an augmentation mastopexy is the ideal solution. This combined procedure enhances both the volume and position of the breasts, offering the benefits of both augmentation and lift in one surgery.

What is augmentation mastopexy?

Augmentation mastopexy is a surgical procedure that combines breast augmentation and mastopexy (breast lift). This operation involves the insertion of silicone implants to enhance breast size while simultaneously lifting the breasts to a higher, more youthful position. By merging these two procedures, patients benefit from both increased breast volume and improved breast positioning, resulting in larger, perkier, and more aesthetically pleasing breasts.

Why Choose Augmentation Mastopexy?

For many women, a standalone breast augmentation or mastopexy may not achieve their desired results. Some women seek larger breasts but also need a lift to correct sagging, while others want to address droopiness but also desire fuller breasts. Combining these procedures into an augmentation mastopexy can provide the best of both worlds, offering comprehensive enhancement and rejuvenation.

RELATED: Options for Droopy Breasts – Breast Lift, Implants or Both?

Deciding to undergo any surgical procedure is significant and can be overwhelming. The decision between breast augmentation, breast lift, or augmentation mastopexy depends on individual goals and desired outcomes. If you aim for both an increase in breast size and a higher, firmer breast profile, augmentation mastopexy may be the ideal choice.

How is Augmentation Mastopexy Performed?

The augmentation mastopexy procedure is typically performed under Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA), ensuring you are unconscious throughout without relying on volatile gases. This method often results in a quicker recovery with fewer side effects compared to traditional general anaesthesia.

The surgery begins with the surgeon creating a pocket for the implant, which can be placed either under or over the chest muscle, depending on the desired final look. Following this, the breast lift component of the surgery involves removing excess skin and tightening the breast tissue to raise and firm the breasts. Incisions are made around the areola and vertically down to the base of the breast, ensuring the nipples are correctly positioned and do not point downward after the implants are in place. The result is breasts that are both fuller and lifted, achieving a balanced and youthful appearance.

Recovery After Breast Lift with Implants

After surgery, it is normal to experience bruising and swelling, particularly around the incision sites. Your breasts will likely remain sensitive for the first few weeks following the procedure.

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Patients are generally advised to take a few days off work to rest and recover. It is crucial to avoid strenuous physical activity, including heavy lifting, for at least two weeks post-surgery. This allows your body to heal properly and reduces the risk of complications.

Scarring is an inevitable part of the healing process. Initially, scars will appear red and more noticeable but will gradually fade in size and colour over time, becoming less prominent. Although they will not disappear entirely, proper aftercare can help minimise their appearance.

Augmentation Mastopexy: Benefits and Considerations

The combined procedure of augmentation mastopexy offers numerous benefits. For one, it provides a more comprehensive solution for women looking to address both volume loss and sagging. This dual approach can save time and reduce the overall recovery period compared to having two separate surgeries.

Augmentation mastopexy can significantly boost self-confidence and body image. Women often report feeling more comfortable and satisfied with their appearance, enjoying a more youthful and proportionate figure.

However, like any surgical procedure, augmentation mastopexy comes with risks and considerations. Have a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and any potential complications. Your surgeon will evaluate your health, breast anatomy, and skin quality to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Selecting a skilled and experienced surgeon is critical to achieving the best results from your augmentation mastopexy. Look for a fully UK GMC-registered plastic surgeon with a track record of successful procedures and satisfied patients. During your consultation, ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients to get a sense of the surgeon’s work and aesthetic style.

Open and honest communication with your surgeon is vital. Ensure you feel comfortable discussing your goals and concerns, and ask any questions you may have about the procedure, recovery, and expected outcomes. A good surgeon will take the time to understand your needs and create a tailored surgical plan to achieve your desired results.