The Procedure |
Mastopexy
Whether we like it or not, we have to accept that gravity will one day take its toll on our bodies. For a woman, that may mean breasts that sag. Over the years, a woman's breasts will lose some of their firmness. Heredity, pregnancy, breast-feeding, changes in weight, and aging also contribute to the problem. If you want to restore the shape of your breasts, a breast lift could be your answer. A breast lift won't make your breasts bigger, but it will take what nature gave you and point it in the right direction. This procedure raises and firms the breasts by removing excess skin. It also tightens the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. If the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) is larger than it used to be a breast lift can reduce it, too. You're a good candidate for a breast lift if your breasts:
- have lost firmness and skin elasticity
- are flatter and hang lower than they used to
- if your nipple falls below the breast crease when your breast is unsupported
- if your nipple and areola point downward
- if your skin is stretched and the areola is enlarged
- if one breast is noticeably lower than the other
Women planning significant weight loss or pregnancies should postpone this procedure. Every woman is different and each procedure will be tailored to your specific needs. Before she can decide which type of incision or surgical technique to use, Dr. Krummen will make a few assessments based on:
- the size and shape of your breasts
- the size and position of the areola
- the degree of sagging
- skin quality and elasticity
The most common procedure is one with three incisions. One is around the areola. Another is made vertically down the breast from the areola to the breast crease. The third is made in the natural crease below the breast. Dr. Krummen will advise you on your options when you meet with her for your initial consultation.
The Consultation |
The consultation is your first chance to talk to Dr. Krummen about how you’d like to enhance your appearance. Know what your goals are so you can discuss them in detail with her. She’s available to you to answer all of your questions about the breast lift procedure. If necessary, write down your questions and concerns so they will all be addressed in this meeting. Dr. Krummen will listen carefully to what you have to say and tell you which surgical options she thinks would work best for you. As with any surgery, there are risks and Dr. Krummen will explain them to you. She’ll also explain the results you can expect to see. Your physical health is important so be honest with her about any past or present medical conditions. Your emotional health plays a role in healing as well. Surgery will change your appearance, not your life. It’s important to have realistic goals before having the procedure. Every person is different and your operation will be individualized to your specific needs.
The Surgery
There are variations to this surgery but the most common involves three incisions. The first is around the areola. The second is from the areola down to the crease of the breast. And the third is made horizontally in the natural crease below the breast. The incisions Dr. Krummen makes are based on the amount of excess skin, it's elasticity and how much the breast will have to be lifted to look natural. After the incisions are made, Dr. Krummen will lift and reshape the underlying breast tissue. This will improve the firmness and the shape of the breast. The nipple and areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) are positioned a little higher. If the areola has become enlarged, cutting away skin at the perimeter will reduce it. Some of the incisions will be hidden along the contours of the breast. Others will remain visible but can fade over time. Be sure to follow Dr. Krummen's post operative instructions so you will heal properly and will enjoy the benefits of this procedure (Fig. 1,2,3).
