Ask Dr. Man- Breast lift

Dear Dr. Man, I’m a 29 year old mother of 3 year old twins. I’m in great shape and exercise daily, but after my kids were born and I breastfed, my breasts sag very badly. Can you tell me more about a breast lift? Also, can I get implants at the same time I get a breast lift? Signed, Sagging in Boca Raton

Dear Sagging, Over the years, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and the force of gravity can take their toll on a woman's breasts. The skin loses its elasticity, the breasts lose their shape and they begin to sag. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. A breast lift repositions the breasts into a more pleasing position and gives a more pleasing contour and shape. A breast lift can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

If your breasts are small or have lost volume--for example, after pregnancy--breast implants can be inserted in conjunction with mastopexy to increase both their firmness and their size. Breasts of any size can be lifted and enhanced, but the results may not last as long in heavy breasts.

Many women seek mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts. However, you should be aware that if you're planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift. While there are no special risks that affect future pregnancies (for example, mastopexy usually doesn't interfere with breast feeding), pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the results of the procedure.

During the procedure, the surgeon will mark the areas of skin that will be removed above and below the areola. The nipple will then be moved to a new, higher position while the excess skin above and below the nipple is removed and the breast reshaped. The procedure takes approximately two to four hours and can be performed in an outpatient surgery facility. Patients may experience temporary swelling, numbness and bruising. Most patients return back to work in 1-2 weeks and can resume full activities in about 3-4 weeks. Best of luck to you!

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Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.