Mastopexy or Breast Lift- How is it Done? Raleigh, NC*

Mastopexy also known as breast lift is a popular procedure that helps to reshape the sagging breast. The goal is to elevate the position of the nipple which usually has fallen into the lower portion of the breast mound and also reshape and elevate the entire breast mound on the chest. Patients that have asymmetries or feel that their breasts are too large can also have some degree of breast tissue removal along with the skin. The distinction between a breast reduction and a breast lift is only that the breast reduction involves a larger amount of breast tissue but many mastopexies involve reduction in volume as well. Woman desiring larger and fuller breasts will frequently have breast augmentation done simultaneously. There are basically 3 different incision patterns useful for mastopexy. The most common involves an inverted T-type scar also called anchor scar and this is most commonly utilized for patients with severe degrees of skin laxity and drooping of the nipple below the inframammary fold. A vertical lift generally involves elevation of the nipple and a vertical scar below the nipple perhaps with a small lateral extension also called in L scar. Peri areolar techniques are for minor degrees of ptosis and involved a circular scar only around the nipple. This generally does not shape the breast as well. This 39-year-old woman with severe drooping had mastopexy with reduction of more tissue from the right than the left with resulting nice shape changes.