Op. Dr. Burkay Akduman
Breast Lift Surgery in Turkey
Breast Lift Surgery: Addressing Sagging After Pregnancy and BreastfeedingA breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, a common concern among women after pregnancy and breastfeeding. The changes that occur during these life stages can significantly affect the shape, size, and position of the breasts. In this blog, we …
Breast Lift Surgery: Addressing Sagging After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, a common concern among women after pregnancy and breastfeeding. The changes that occur during these life stages can significantly affect the shape, size, and position of the breasts. In this blog, we will focus on how a breast lift addresses post-pregnancy changes, including the effects of breastfeeding, and what you can expect from the procedure.
Why Do Breasts Sag After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
During pregnancy, the breasts undergo significant changes as they prepare to produce milk. Hormonal fluctuations, increased blood flow, and the growth of milk ducts cause the breasts to enlarge. After childbirth, when breastfeeding begins, the breasts continue to fluctuate in size as milk production increases and decreases.
However, over time, the skin and tissue of the breasts may lose their elasticity, leading to a loss of firmness. This can result in breasts that appear droopy, less youthful, or deflated. After weaning from breastfeeding, many women find that their breasts have sagged or become less full, which is where a breast lift can help.
How Does a Breast Lift Help After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
A breast lift surgically removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue, lifting the breasts to a more youthful position. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned to a higher, more natural location, and the overall shape of the breast is enhanced.
While a breast lift doesn’t add volume to the breasts, it restores their youthful contour and improves their appearance. If you also want to increase the size of your breasts to restore fullness lost after breastfeeding, a breast lift can be combined with breast augmentation (implants) to achieve the desired size and shape.
What Happens During a Breast Lift Procedure?
The procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the lift and whether breast implants are used. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, the surgeon will:
Make incisions around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the natural breast fold. The type and extent of the incisions depend on the degree of sagging.
Remove excess skin and tighten the breast tissue.
Reposition the nipple and areola to a more youthful position.
Reshape the breast for a firmer, lifted appearance.
Can You Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?
Many women are concerned about the ability to breastfeed after a breast lift. In most cases, it is still possible to breastfeed after the procedure, especially if the incisions are made around the areola rather than through the nipple itself. However, there may be some impact on breastfeeding ability depending on the technique used and the extent of the surgery. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, it’s important to discuss this with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. Some women may experience temporary changes in their ability to nurse, but this varies from person to person.
Recovery After a Breast Lift
The recovery time after a breast lift typically takes around 1 to 2 weeks for initial healing, with a full recovery time of 6 to 8 weeks. Here’s what to expect:
Immediately after surgery: You will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain can usually be managed with prescribed medications.
First few weeks: You will need to wear a support bra to minimize swelling and provide support to your healing breasts. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during this time.
Long-term results: As the swelling goes down, you’ll begin to see the final shape of your breasts. Full results will be visible after a few months, once the tissue has settled.
The Benefits of a Breast Lift After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Restored Confidence: Many women experience a boost in self-esteem after a breast lift, as it restores a youthful and firmer appearance to the breasts.
Better Fit in Clothes: A more lifted breast shape often results in better-fitting clothes, especially in swimsuits and form-fitting tops.
Improved Breast Symmetry: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause asymmetry between the breasts. A breast lift can help balance and enhance the natural shape of each breast.
A Youthful Look: A breast lift can provide a more youthful and perky breast contour, making you feel more confident in your appearance.
Is a Breast Lift Right for You?
If you’re experiencing sagging or deflation after pregnancy and breastfeeding, a breast lift might be an ideal option to restore your breasts’ shape and position. However, it’s important to wait until you are done having children and breastfeeding, as pregnancy can undo the results of a breast lift.
Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery is essential to determine if a breast lift is the right choice for you. The surgeon will discuss your goals, evaluate your breast shape and skin quality, and create a personalized plan for achieving the best possible results.
A breast lift after pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly enhance the appearance of your breasts, lifting and reshaping them for a more youthful and firm look. Whether you’re looking to address sagging, improve symmetry, or restore fullness lost after breastfeeding, a breast lift can offer a solution. If you’re considering this procedure, make sure to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon to guide you through the process and help you achieve your desired results.