Dr. med.
S. Fenner
.
Dr. med.
S. Fenner
Specialist
in Plastic
and Aesthetic
Surgery
.
.

Breast lift

(Mastopexy)

.
.
Pregnancy, weight reduction, the aging process, or constitution-related tissue characteristics can cause the breasts to sag. Breast-lift surgery can provide women suffering from this breast shape with a renewed sense of body image and self-confidence.

In this breast-lift surgery, the existing breast tissue is shaped and lifted into a more attractive form.

The surgery involves the following aspects, depending on the findings:

  • Lifting and shaping of the glandular tissue to an attractive height
  • Reconstruction of an attractive breast projection through autoaugmentation. In this advanced technique, the sagging breast tissue is shaped like an implant (instead of using a silicone implant) while maintaining blood flow, and it is fixed under the lifted breast
  • Tightening of the breast tissue and skin envelope
  • Relocation of the areola complex while preserving blood vessels and nerves, with any necessary size and shape correction of the areolar region
  • Stabilization of the result through the so-called internal bra
  • The goal is to achieve an attractively shaped and permanently full breast. If needed, and depending on the findings, combining a breast lift with autologous fat transplantation or the insertion of silicone gel implants (augmentation mastopexy) can be beneficial to enlarge the breast, maintain volume, or balance asymmetries.
    Considering the size and shape of the breasts, as well as the patient's expectations, various surgical methods are available. These differ in the extent of glandular tissue dissection and the blood supply pattern of the areola complex, varying in aesthetic results, durability, scar length, and the blood flow security of the areola complex.
    Choosing the optimal surgical method (e.g., with or without autoaugmentation or internal bra) requires mastery of all techniques, a thorough examination of the breasts, and good communication during the pre-operative consultation. During the consultation, expectations, success rates, possible surgical risks and consequences, necessary preparatory tests, and aftercare will be discussed.
    The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and lasts two to three hours. Depending on the extent of the procedure, it may be done on an outpatient basis or require an overnight hospital stay. Drains may be inserted if necessary.
    .
    Scar pattern around the areola
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    Scar pattern around the areola and vertically
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    Scar pattern around the areola, vertically, and along the inframammary fold
    Breast lifting results in scars, the course and length of which depend on the chosen surgical method. With precise suturing techniques, the resulting scars are usually delicate, pale, and inconspicuous.
    .

    Follow-up cost insurance

    When performed by an experienced and specialized plastic surgeon, aesthetic surgeries are relatively low-risk procedures. However, despite the greatest care, there is always a possibility of complications with any surgery. Therefore, a serious and comprehensive consultation should also include information about the potential economic consequences of such surgery, as well as the option of follow-up cost insurance.

    Frequently Asked Questions
    Breast lift

    FAQ on the topic:
    Breast lift

    What preoperative examinations are necessary for a breast lift?
    Before the surgery, an ultrasound and/or mammography may be recommended depending on age, pre-existing conditions, and family history. Additional preoperative tests may be necessary depending on pre-existing conditions.
    What is autoaugmentation or an autograft implant?
    This refers to an implant made from the patient's own tissue: glandular tissue from the drooping breast area is prepared like an implant and fixed to the chest wall. This technique allows for better breast projection (without inserting a foreign body) with a very stable and attractive result.
    What is the "internal bra"?
    In this method, the more stable dermal layer of the excess breast skin is preserved and, like an internal bra, is stretched over the tightened glandular tissue and fixed to the chest wall. This further stabilizes the lifting result.
    When will the final result be visible?
    In breast-lift surgery, a certain degree of "over-correction" is initially intended. The breasts will descend after the surgery, and the final result is expected within 3 to 6 months. Scar maturation (until the scars become pale and inconspicuous) can take 6 to 12 months.
    What aftercare can I expect after the surgery?
    After the surgery, a compression bra should be worn continuously for 6 weeks (except while showering). The sutures are self-dissolving, so there is no need to remove stitches. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor wound healing and scar maturation.
    What are the risks of a breast-lift surgery?
    A detailed risk assessment and counseling will take place before the surgery, including potential risks like bleeding, infection, wound healing issues, scarring, and thrombosis.
    How long will I be unable to work or exercise?
    Depending on the physical demands of the job, a leave of absence from a few days to 2 weeks should be planned after the surgery. Intense physical activity, especially involving the arms, should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
    What does the surgery cost?
    The cost of breast-lift surgery starts at €7,000 net, depending on the extent of the operation, and is not covered by health insurance.