Considering a Breast Lift? Lubbock Women Should Plan Ahead

Women have several plastic surgery options for breast enhancement. Mastopexy, or a breast lift, creates a youthful look by raising sagging breasts. The procedure gets rid of excess skin, lifts the nipple to a more forward position, and reshapes the existing tissue to give an overall more perky appearance. A breast lift can help with asymmetry and make clothing and swimwear fit more comfortably. For women who think they may be interested in a breast lift, Lubbock Dr. Jane Rowley recommends preparing for the procedure and following all pre- and post-operative instructions. She wants all of her patients to have a comfortable and smooth experience on the day of their breast lift, and getting ready beforehand is one way you can make sure that happens.

Preparing for Your Breast Lift

At your preoperative doctor visit, you will discuss your medical history, previous surgeries, and any medications or supplements you take. You will have a physical exam of your breasts so the doctor can determine your skin tone, positioning of your nipples, and other details for your breast lift. Lubbock patients should communicate clearly with their doctor about their surgical expectations and why they want a breast lift. It is always important to consult with your doctor before any procedure so you can understand exactly what the procedure can or cannot do and what the expected recovery will be. You may be asked to have a mammogram done before your surgery to establish a baseline for tracking changes in your breast tissue.

Preparing for Your Surgery

The right preparations for the day of your surgery can have an effect on your recovery. You will need to follow any pre-surgical instructions from the doctor carefully. You will be told what things you will need to bring and what type of clothes to wear after your breast lift. Lubbock patients may be advised not to take some of the medications they are taking. Be sure to avoid any anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplements as they can increase your risk of bleeding. If you use nicotine, you will need to stop for several weeks before your surgery, as nicotine can affect your healing by decreasing blood flow to the skin. You will also want to make arrangements for someone to help you after your procedure.

The First Few Weeks

For the first 2 to 3 weeks following their breast lift, Lubbock patients can usually expect to bruise, swell, and have some postoperative pain. Incisions can feel sore and you may experience numbness in your nipples. All of these symptoms are normal, but they will vary from patient to patient as pain tolerance and recovery times differ for each individual. If pain management is difficult or you have any concerns about your recovery, contact your doctor.

During the first few weeks after your surgery, it is critical to give your body the opportunity to heal from surgery for the best results of your breast lift. Lubbock patients should ease gently back into parts of their normal routine as they start to feel better. Some things you can do to help your recovery be successful include:

• Wearing a compression bra for the recommended amount of time
• Staying elevated at a 25 to 45-degree angle, even when sleeping
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach
• Avoid any activity that involves lifting, bending, or straining

The First Few Months

It may take a month or two before all swelling is gone and you start to see the final results of your breast lift. Lubbock is full of fun things to do, but be patient with your body and you should be able to resume normal activity 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery. It’s important not to overestimate how good you are feeling too soon after your surgery and jump back into your daily routine too quickly. Remember that your body needs time to heal properly, so give yourself permission to slow down and take it easy. Numbness in nipples is usually gone in the first couple of months after surgery. Scars will continue to fade over the next 12 months.

Combining Procedures for Dramatic Enhancements

Some patients may wish to combine a breast lift with liposuction or tummy tuck for a mommy makeover. You can also get breast implants with a breast lift. Lubbock patients who combine procedures may requires a little longer time for recovery. Discuss with your doctor what options are best for you.

Dr. Jane Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience helping her patients achieve their aesthetic goals. She takes the time to discuss your goals thoroughly, explains the procedure, and give a clear expectation of what is involved with your expected recovery. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, we put our patients needs first and make their care and comfort our highest priority. Schedule your no-obligation consultation today.