A Combination Operation for Shapelier Breasts
While a breast lift can improve the shape of flat or deflated breasts by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast envelope, it may also reduce the volume or fullness. Many women want to enjoy the benefits of breast lift, but do not wish to sacrifice cup size. Dr. Mark H. Schwartz specializes in aesthetic breast surgery and may recommend a combination procedure that includes a breast augmentation with lift to restore shape and size.
Combination breast augmentation with lift adds volume, lifts the breast to a more attractive and youthful position, tightens the upper portion of the breast and repositions the nipples to the top of the breast mound — in a single operation. New York City board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Schwartz recommends this combination procedure to achieve an optimal result in terms of breast size, shape and position.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation with Lift
The ideal candidates for a breast augmentation with lift are women that have experienced aging, pregnancy and nursing-related changes in their breasts. Their breasts have lost volume and fullness and rest lower on the chest wall from the effects of gravity. The breast skin may be lax, nipples may lay below the breast crease and may point downward. Dr. Schwartz also uses this technique to correct asymmetries when one breast sit lowers than the other or has less volume.
Dr. Schwartz will meet with you to discuss the best options for your individual goals. In some cases, an implant may be sufficient. If there is more advanced sagging and volume loss, the combination procedure may achieve the best result. During your consultation, Dr. Schwartz will carefully examine your breasts to determine the size, shape, skin elasticity, nipple position, and other important factors. Based on this information, Dr. Schwartz will explain all of your options in detail, including the incision pattern, type and size of implants he recommends. He will also review your medical history in detail to ensure that you are healthy and a good candidate for breast surgery.
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Procedural Details
Breast Augmentation with Lift can be performed on an outpatient basis at Dr. Schwartz’s fully accredited Upper East Side surgical facility. A board certified anesthesiologist will provide anesthesia care to keep you comfortable during the procedure and in recovery.
Dr. Schwartz makes the surgical incisions in the pre-determined location. The incision pattern depends on the degree of breast sagging; more sagging and skin to be removed or repositioned usually requires a larger incision pattern.
The most common incision configurations are:
- Around the nipple
- Around the nipple, continuing vertically down to the breast crease
- Around the nipple, vertically down to the breast crease and continuing horizontally under the breast crease
Through the desired incision, Dr. Schwartz will place the silicone or saline breast implants. Once they are properly positioned and symmetrical, he will remove excess breast skin and reposition the breast tissue into a higher position on the chest wall around the implant. Dr. Schwartz can also reduce the size and improve the shape of the areolas (the darkly pigmented skin surrounding the nipples) and correct downward-pointing nipples. When he is finished with the breast lift, Dr. Schwartz will carefully close the incisions with sutures and place surgical dressings as needed. Your breasts may also be wrapped in a compressive garment for additional support during the recovery process.
Recovering from Surgery
The recovery period is similar to that of a standalone breast augmentation or breast lift surgery. Swelling, bruising, sensitivity and soreness are to be expected, and will subside quickly. You will be instructed to rest as your body heals, avoiding any bending, lifting or straining. Vigorous exercise is prohibited, but short walks are encouraged to promote good circulation. Range of motion may be limited so you may need to arrange for help with childcare, pets, and any strenuous activities for the first few days to a week.
Dr. Schwartz sees all his patients for several follow-up visits during the recovery period to check on how you are healing and determine when you can resume normal activities and exercise.
Your initial results will be evident immediately after surgery, with continued improvement as the swelling subsides, your breasts settle into their new shape and size, and incisions heal and fade. It may take up to four to six weeks for post-operative swelling to resolve and reveal the final results of your breast augmentation with lift.
Schedule a Consultation
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark H. Schwartz or to find out more about breast augmentation with lift.
