A vertical mastopexy is a technique used for women who want their breasts to droop less and be perkier. The results are long lasting.
There are many types of mastopexy; in this blog, we will discuss the vertical mastopexy technique. The vertical mastopexy technique allows for more skin removal than another mastopexy option, the periareolar mastopexy. It is also less invasive than the anchor mastopexy.
The Vertical Breast Lift Procedure
General anesthesia will be administered first. The plastic surgeon will then make a lollipop-shaped incision. Specifically, a circular incision is made around the areola, and the incision then moves vertically downwards towards the breast fold.
The deeper layer of the breast tissue is then stitched together to give the breasts a firmer shape. The areolae and nipples are lifted higher in position. The glandular tissue remains intact. The incisions made around the areola and down the center are then stitched up.
Preparation
A full medical checkup will be conducted before the procedure. Blood tests and other routine tests will also be done. You should inform your plastic surgeon about any prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and other supplements that you may be taking.
Before your procedure, you should stop taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that you are using, since these increase your chances of bleeding from the surgery.
You are not allowed to eat or drink starting at midnight on the day before the surgery. You can drink clear fluids like black tea or plain water up to two hours before the surgery. You cannot drink anything that has any solids in it, such as milk, soup, and orange juice.
The Recovery Process
The vertical mastopexy procedure takes one to three hours, but it is advisable that you stay for another two hours afterwards so that we can make sure that there are no complications.
Immediately after the surgery, the breasts will look very tight and unusual in shape. They will start to soften and appear more normal a couple of weeks after the surgery.
Following surgery, the breasts will feel tender. You will be given painkillers to help deal with any pain. You cannot do any exercise or work that involves the use of your chest muscles. The muscles need to be rested for four to six weeks.
Showering is allowed starting two days after the surgery. You may be given stool softeners to prevent constipation. Heavy lifting and workouts are not allowed for a month. The stitches will be removed after two weeks during a follow-up appointment.
You will be given a surgical bra to wear after the surgery. There will be some bruising and swelling, and wearing this post-surgical garment will aid in the healing process to make these issues disappear. They will typically go away after a week or two. It takes about six months for the breasts to fully heal and for the full results to become apparent.
Arrange an Appointment for a Mastopexy Consultation
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lawrence Glassman has a great deal of experience and skill when it comes to procedures like the vertical mastopexy. To schedule an informative consultation, contact our office.