Mastopexy (breast lift surgery) isn't a specific procedure and may refer to any elective surgery intended to change the shape of the breasts. It typically includes lifting the breast and removing skin, and it may also involve changing the position of the areola and nipple. Mastopexy is frequently combined with other procedures such as breast augmentation surgery.
Purpose of Mastopexy
A mastopexy is intended to correct the breast sag commonly caused by loss of skin elasticity. Sagging breasts can be caused by age, weight loss, pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, a mastopexy shouldn't be performed on a patient who plans on having children. An additional pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding would negate the benefits of the surgery.
General Procedure
A mastopexy that requires relatively little removal of skin can be performed under a local anesthetic on an outpatient basis. Patients who need a more extensive procedure might require general anesthesia and a hospital stay. This is most common in women with larger breasts who require more skin removal. Mastopexy operations can require one to 3-1/2 hours to complete, depending on the procedure being performed.
Concentric Mastopexy
A concentric mastopexy involves making two circular incisions around the areola. The skin between the incisions can be removed and the nipple is typically repositioned upward. The free edges of skin are then sewn together. A concentric mastopexy is usually performed on women with a minimal amount of sagging.
Vertical Mastopexy
A vertical mastopexy is similar to a concentric mastopexy except the surgeon extends the bottom parts of the incisions to the crease beneath the breast. This allows the surgeon to make a greater correction by removing a larger amount of skin. This procedure is most common on women with a greater degree of sagging.
Anchor Mastopexy
An anchor mastopexy involves making an incision above the nipple that's generally shaped like an anchor with a circle at the top. The nipple is repositioned into the circle and the elliptical incision at the bottom of the "anchor" forms the new lower contour of the breast. An anchor mastopexy is the most invasive type of breast lift surgery.
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