Correcting Saggy Breasts
October 13th, 2015
Correcting Saggy Breasts: Sagging of a woman’s breasts can occur due to several factors. The majority of my patients report changes due to loss of breast fullness after breast-feeding. However, any significant weight change may cause pendulous or sagging breasts. True sagging refers to nipple position falling below the actual crease beneath your breast. The “pencil test” is the standard method to find out if surgery might be indicated. Simply place a pencil beneath your breast and if your nipple hangs below the pencil when you sit or stand, then you may consider the benefit from having a breast lift. This procedure is often part of a Mommy Makeover.
New Breast Positioning: Breast lift surgery reposition the nipple and areola (pigmented skin around the nipple) upwards to a more natural position. This natural position is about one half to three-quarters of an inch above the crease. Positioning them higher than this can result in an odd breast appearance, which I do not recommend. Most women prefer a more natural appearance. The size of the areola can also increase due to the same changes I’ve discussed above. Any concerns may be discussed during a consultation, as areola reduction is sometimes combined during a breast lift procedure.
Incisions: Scars from a breast lift are the same as breast reduction surgery and are positioned around the nipple and beneath the breast as well. They are usually easily covered by most swimsuits. Looking at the surgeon’s before and after photos can be an excellent way to judge whether results meets your criteria. Many women can still breastfeed following breast lift surgery, if they choose to do so.
Most plastic surgeons offer complimentary consultations. As always, seeking the advice of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is important. Members of American Society of Plastic Surgeons in the USA and Canada are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Here’s the link for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a qualified surgeon in your area.
Breast Lifts
July 13th, 2010
Sagging of a woman’s breasts can occur following pregnancy or any dramatic weight gain/loss. True sagging refers to nipple position falling below the crease beneath your breast. The “pencil test” is the way to find out if surgery might be indicated. By placing a pencil beneath your breast where it attaches to you chest and your nipple hangs below the pencil when you sit or stand, then you may need a breast lift. I do not recommend breast lift surgery if nipples are above the crease or at the level of the crease. Breast enlargement is usually sufficient to correct a simple saggy breast shape in most cases. Breast lift surgery repositions the nipple and areola (pigmented skin around the nipple) upwards to a more natural position. This natural position is about one half to three quarters of an inch above the crease. Positioning them higher than this can result in an odd breast appearance. The size of the areola can also be reduced if desired.
Breast enlargement or breast reduction may be considered at the same time as breast lift surgery. Changing the breast size is accomplished through the same incisions made for the breast lift. As with all breast surgery, size is a personal choice. Some surgeons believe that combining breast enlargement with breast lift surgery enhances the final breast shape. This is an option for patients to consider.
Scars from a breast lift are the same as breast reduction surgery and are positioned around the nipple and beneath the breast as well. They are usually easily covered by most swimming suits. Many women can still breast feed following breast lift surgery, if they choose to do so.
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