There are many reasons that lead to the sagging of the female breast – be it after a pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to increasing age or by genetic predisposition. In any case, there is too little volume, i.e. fatty and glandular tissue, to fill the existing skin. This is why the nipples are sitting comparatively low, emphasising the sagging breast. A breast lift removes excess skin and gives the existing tissue a generally firmer and thus more youthful-looking shape. However, in contrast to breast reduction, no glandular or fatty tissue is removed in this case; the focus is on tightening excess skin and repositioning the nipples.
The procedure of a breast lift
During personal and individual consultation with the patient, the further procedure is explained; her expectations and desires are discussed and the nature of her skin and breast is identified. The incision technique used depends on each individual case, of course. If the patient is also dissatisfied with her natural breast volume, silicone implants or autologous fat can be inserted along with the breast lift.
First, an incision is made around the nipple. The skin is detached from the breast tissue and the incision is extended to the inframammary fold. The mammary gland is reshaped according to the specifications made during consultation using multiple sutures. The nipple remains firmly attached to the glandular tissue during the entire procedure.
The breast lift is performed under general anaesthesia and takes between one and two hours. The patient spends one night in hospital. Drains that have been inserted on each breast during surgery collect blood and wound fluid. Those are removed before the patient leaves the hospital. Following the procedure, the patient has to wear a support bra day and night for at least four weeks. During this time, she should look after herself and refrain from solarium, sauna, swimming and sports.
| Type of intervention | General anaesthesia |
|---|---|
| Duration of the procedure | 1 to 2 hours |
| Recovery time | 10 to 14 days |
| Hospital stay | 1 night |