Mastopexy is a cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgical procedure that lifts the breasts. It's not considered breast augmentation because no implant materials are used, but the technique of lifting the breasts may give you higher, fuller breasts. Women of all ages may have a mastopexy for reasons of their own, most commonly drooping or aging breasts. After mastopexy, you may need to temporarily curtail exercise and other activities that strain the upper body, such as driving.
Mastopexy Procedure
Several options for placement of mastopexy incisions are available, depending on the size and structure of your breasts, your age and your goals. Incisions around the areola and along the underside of the breast facilitate the surgical procedure. Tissue is lifted and repacked or shaped into the breast cavity and the areola and nipple are repositioned higher up on the breast. A surgical dressing covers the incisions, and your doctor will give you a surgical bra to wear 24 hours a day, seven days a week for at least six weeks following your surgery, according to the University of Michigan Department of Surgery.
Post-Surgery
After surgery, your body needs time to heal. The area around your breasts may be tender, swollen and sore. Avoid any exercise except walking, as large movements that jar the breasts may prove painful. You may be instructed by your doctor to limit use of your arms for four to six weeks. Because of this, you should not jog.
Jogging
The forward and backward swinging or pumping of the arms employed during jogging may cause extreme discomfort and pull stitches, steri-strips or staples used during the operation. You may also create a risk of post-surgical bleeding around the site of the surgery. Jogging, weightlifting or high-intensity activities place intense stretching and load onto the muscles supporting the breasts. Exercising before you're cleared to do so by your doctor may also adversely affect your final breast lift results.
Exercise and Activity Cautions
Following a mastopexy procedure, the University of Michigan's Department of Surgery suggests avoiding any type of heavy or strenuous forms of exercise for at least six weeks. This means no weightlifting, no jogging or exercises that involve use of the upper torso, including driving. Wear the surgical bra you're given as directed.
References
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Breast Lift Surgery - Mastopexy Information Page
- University of Michigan Department of Surgery: Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Post-Operative Instructions
- University of Michegan Medical School: Anatomy Tables - Pectoral Region & Breast
- Get Body Smart: Pectoralis Major Muscle
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