Breast size, shape, and appearance are inextricably linked with an ideal shape and sex appeal, as our current beauty culture places a tremendous emphasis on physical appearance, especially for women. However, breasts can change dramatically over the course of a woman’s life, due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, age, weight fluctuations, genetics, and gravity.
As the skin loses its elasticity, breasts begin to droop and point downward, creating a less feminine profile. Women who are concerned about pendulous breasts have the option of breast lift surgery to reshape their silhouette and reverse the effects of time.
Meet Dr. Gerth
Looking to book your procedure in the Miami Beach area? Learn why you should choose a versatile surgeon like Dr. Gerth today!
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, also called a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of sagging breasts. In performing a breast lift, Dr. David Gerth can elevate your overall breast profile by repositioning your breasts to sit in a higher, more youthful position on the chest. A breast lift can also improve the size and placement of the areolas, which may become enlarged over the years.
Breast lift surgery is becoming increasingly popular among women who are looking for a way to improve the shape and appearance of their breasts, without altering their size. A breast lift differs from breast augmentation in that it does not add volume or fullness to the existing breast tissue. However, for women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts or are looking for a way to round out the upper portion of their breasts, Dr. Gerth can perform a breast augmentation surgery in conjunction with a breast lift for an even more comprehensive enhancement.
What Does a Breast Lift Entail?
A breast lift surgery will take place while you are under anesthesia. The goal of this procedure is to lift and reshape your breasts to improve contour and firmness. During the surgery, Dr. Gerth will also:
- Reposition your nipples and areolas in keeping with your improved breast height
- Remove excess skin for firmer, more supported breasts
- If necessary, create smaller areolas by removing skin around the perimeter
Dr. Gerth uses four different incision options for breast lifts:
- Crescent lift (halfway around the areola)
- Periareolar or doughnut lift (a circle around the areola)
- Lollipop or vertical lift (a circle with a vertical line)
- Anchor lift (shaped like an upside-down T)
After evaluating your cosmetic concerns, Dr. Gerth will determine which incision pattern is best for you based on factors such as the size and shape of your breasts, the degree of sagging you are experiencing, your skin elasticity, and the position of your areolas.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?
As with any cosmetic procedure, the decision to get a breast lift is extremely personal, and one you should only make after careful consideration.
The best candidates for breast lift surgery are women who share the following qualifications:
- Sagging breasts are negatively affecting your self-confidence
- When you take your bra off, your nipples and areolas point toward the floor, rather than straight ahead
- Your breasts have lost volume and shape due to age, or after the hormonal changes of pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you place an object such as a pen or drinking straw under your breast, it stays there
- Your breasts have a flattened or elongated appearance
- When unsupported, one breast sits lower on your chest than the other
- You are not pregnant or breastfeeding, and have no plans for future children
- You are a non-smoker in good overall health, with a positive attitude and realistic expectations
Breast Lift Recovery and Results
Dr. Gerth provides breast lifts on an outpatient basis, so you will be able to return home as soon as you wake up from the anesthesia and he clears you to leave. You will have bandages or surgical dressings covering your incisions, and you might also have drainage tubes to collect excess fluids. We will send you home with specific instructions on how to care for your incision sites, when you will be able to shower, and when you should return to our clinic for follow-up appointments.
In the first week following your surgery, you will experience light to moderate pain, as well as bruising and swelling. Your breasts will be tender as they heal, and you will need to wear a specially designed bra to support your breasts and help them conform to their new position.
Though everyone recovers at different rates, you should plan to take at least a week off work, and refrain from activities such as bending and heavy lifting that might unnecessarily strain your incision sites. Light walking can aid your recovery process by stimulating circulation, but you’ll need to avoid vigorous, high-impact activity that causes your breasts to bounce until Dr. Gerth approves you to return to your regular fitness routine.
You can assist your body’s natural healing process by getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, sleeping only on your back, taking all medications as prescribed, and following all your postsurgical instructions carefully to avoid complications.
The results of your breast lift surgery should be immediately visible, and will continue to improve over the next several weeks as you heal, your swelling goes down, and your breasts settle into their improved position. You’ll be able to maintain long-lasting results from your breast lift by maintaining stable body weight and living a healthy lifestyle.
Exceptional Breast Lifts in South Florida
With so many options for improving the appearance of their breasts, more and more women are beginning to realize they don’t have to live with breasts that take away from their self-esteem. If your breasts are sagging, asymmetrical, or less firm than they were when you were younger, a breast lift may be your best option for you to regain your sexy silhouette and return your breasts to the shape you desire.
Cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Gerth is a leading breast surgeon in Miami. If you’re ready to change your life by improving the way your breasts look, contact our office to schedule a consultation to discuss a breast lift with Dr. Gerth.