Breast Lift in New York City
Breast lift surgery or mastopexy is different from breast augmentation in that the procedure is intended to enhance, not the size, but the shape of the breasts. Breast lift surgery raises and reshapes sagging breasts, by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipples to improve their appearance. A breast lift can also reduce the size of the areola – the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. If a patient’s breasts are small or have lost volume (after pregnancy or weight loss), getting a breast lift and breast augmentation can increase their shape and size. In short, depending on aesthetic goals, patients can choose between a breast lift without implants or with breast implants. Whatever you choose, NYC plastic surgeon, Dr. Alexes Hazen, is an expert at all types of breast surgery and has refined her craft during her 15 + years of experience.
Before and After Photos - Breast Lift with Dr. Hazen
Breast Lift Procedure
The breast lift surgical procedure may be performed under sedation or general anesthesia (asleep), in a hospital, or in our cosmetic surgical suite. The procedure usually takes 2-3 hours.
How much droop or ptosis a person has will determine the size of the incisions, the more droop, the larger and longer the incisions.
Some patients choose to have breast implants placed at the same time as a breast lift. This will lift the breast and increase the volume as well.
If you are getting a breast lift with implants during the surgery, they can be placed:
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immediately behind the breast (subglandular placement)
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behind the breast and pectoralis major muscle
Who is a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
Breast lift surgery is for people who have sagging breasts - and it bothers them!
You may be a candidate for breast lift surgery if:
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You are physically healthy and maintain a stable weight
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You do not smoke
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You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts sag or have lost shape and volume
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Your breasts have a flatter, elongated shape or are pendulous
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When unsupported, your nipples fall below the breast crease
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Your nipples and areolas point downward
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You have stretched skin and enlarged areolas
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One breast is lower than the other
Breast Lift Post Surgery Recovery
The breasts will be bruised, sore, and swollen after your breast lift. You can expect to wear bandages or a surgical bra for several days. There may be some pain, but it can be treated with prescription pain medication. After the bandages and surgical bra have been removed, Dr. Hazen may suggest that you wear an athletic or support bra until the swelling subsides. Typically Dr. Hazen does not put in any stitches that need to be removed - she uses absorbable stitches.
Heavy lifting or straining should be avoided because this can cause the breasts to swell. You can usually return to work within a week and to full activity within two weeks, and definitely within a month. Sensation in your nipples may be reduced temporarily but it usually returns as your breasts heal. Breast-feeding is normally unaffected after most breast lift surgeries because the connecting glandular tissue of the nipple and areola are left intact during the procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Hazen for Breast Lift Surgery?
Dr. Alexes Hazen is an expert in breast surgery. Patients come to Dr. Hazen for revision and correction of breast surgeries done elsewhere. So why not start out with her and get your breast surgery right and near perfect from the get-go? Dr. Hazen will talk to you and listen to your desires and come up with a plan that makes sense for you. No detail is too small for her.
What to Expect From Your Consultation with Dr. Hazen
During your consultation, Dr. Hazen takes a thorough look at your medical history and conditions, including hospitalizations and medications taken. A physical exam is performed. Your goals and desires for surgery are fully explored, and Dr. Hazen gives a comprehensive explanation of the surgical procedures that are possible for you, including complications and risks. Dr. Hazen describes your individual recovery process. Now you have the option to have your pre-operative photos taken (saves a visit). Dr. Hazen and you may explore any issues that are blocking or interfering with the surgery actually happening, including anxieties around it. Then your surgery plan is made with a timeline. If the procedure is not covered by insurance, estimated costs for surgery and anesthesia are presented to you.