Breast Lift Columbus, Ohio

Sometimes referred to as a “mastopexy,” the breast lift is a plastic surgery procedure designed to correct sagging and asymmetrical breasts, diminished volume, and drooping or stretched areolas. The operation moves the breast tissue higher on the chest, tightens loose skin, raises the nipple, decreases the width of the areola and improves symmetry.

In cases where there is too much or too little volume, patients may consider a breast reduction or augmentation in addition to the lift procedure.

Deciding whether you need a breast lift is a personal choice and often depends on your individual goals and concerns. However, there are some common signs that may indicate a breast lift could be beneficial for you. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Sagging (Ptosis): If your breasts have lost their firmness and elasticity, and they appear to sag or droop, a breast lift may help to restore a more youthful and lifted appearance.

• Nipple Position: The position of your nipples can change over time. If your nipples have descended below the breast crease or point downward, a breast lift can reposition them to a more natural and higher location.

• Breast Shape: Changes in breast shape, such as loss of volume in the upper part of the breast, can be addressed with a breast lift. This procedure can help to reshape and lift the breasts for a more aesthetically pleasing contour.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight fluctuations can contribute to changes in breast appearance. If you have experienced these life events and are unhappy with the current shape and position of your breasts, a breast lift may be a consideration.

• Areola Size: Sometimes, the areolas (the dark skin surrounding the nipples) may naturally stretch or enlarge. A breast lift can address this by reducing the size of the areolas and repositioning them.

• Clothing Fit: If you find that your breasts make it challenging to find bras and clothing that fit comfortably or if you are unhappy with the way your breasts look in clothing, a breast lift might be a solution.

Your consultation will cover your medical history, physical exam, goals, expectations and concerns. Our team will perform a breast exam and take a series of photographs and measurements. Be sure to communicate any previous surgery, medical issues, hospitalizations, medications and allergies, as well as the results of any mammograms or other breast studies.

You may be asked to seek pre-operative clearance from your primary care physician, or other specialists. These records and referrals are used to ensure the safest possible outcome, and will always be held in the highest confidence.

Discover Personalized Solutions, Tailored To Your Goals & Comfort

We will introduce a spectrum of treatment options, and you will discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with each procedure. Together, you will create a customized plan. We may recommend additional procedures, depending on your individual goals and body type. Common supplementary procedures include breast reduction or augmentation (placement of breast implants). You will review sample photographs to illustrate the realistic outcomes of these procedures.

To conclude your consultation, our medical staff will provide a quote for estimated costs and potential scheduling options. Our patient coordinator can help you arrange for financing and payment plans if desired.

The precise technique used in your breast lift surgery will be determined by several factors, including:

• Breast size and shape
• The position and size of your areolas
• The degree of breast sagging
• Skin quality, quantity and elasticity

Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert offer breast lift surgery on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. The design of the incisions may vary according to the amount of desired lift: minor elevations may be accomplished through a curved incision that traces the top edge of the nipple-areola complex (NAC). Moderate lifts are possible through circum-areolar incisions with a vertical incision (‘Lollipop”) or without a vertical incision (“Benelli”). Dramatic lifts are typically performed through a combination of circum-areolar, vertical and horizontal incisions (“anchor-style,” or “inverted-T).

Moderate elevations are possible through a circular incision that traces the outer edge of the areolae — circumareolar or “Benelli-style” breast lifts.  Slightly more lift is possible by adding a vertical incision beneath the areola that extends down to the breast crease — a “lollipop” breast lift.

The choice of incision pattern depends on the degree of breast sagging and the desired cosmetic outcome. During your consultation, we will evaluate your unique situation, discuss your goals and determine the best plan. Our surgeons always try to minimize incisions in the belief that it is better to create as few scars as are necessary to create the right look.

Crescent/Supra-areolar Incision:

• A single small incision made partially around the top half of the areola.
• The least invasive type of incision and is usually reserved for minimal lifts or cases where only a subtle adjustment is needed.

Circum-Areolar/Peri-Areolar/Donut/Benelli Incision:

• An incision is made only around the areola and is typically used for mild to moderate cases of sagging.
• The advantage is a more limited scar, but it may not be suitable for more extensive lifts.

Lollipop/Vertical Incision:

• This method involves two incisions: one around the areola and one vertically from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold.
• Suitable for moderate sagging and may result in a shorter scar than the anchor incision.

Anchor or Inverted-T Incision:

• The most common incision pattern for a breast lift.
• It involves three total incisions: one around the areola, one vertically from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold (crease beneath the breast), and one horizontally along the inframammary fold.
• Effective for addressing significant sagging and allows for the reshaping of the breast tissue.

Light dressings will be placed over your incisions, and you will return home several hours after surgery. All sutures are dissolvable within several weeks, and a layer of surgical-grade adhesive is painted over each incision for an extra layer of protection. Though some discomfort is to be expected, severe pain is uncommon. Pain medication is provided before, during and after the operation.

Your post-operative bra will offer support and comfort in the days and weeks following the procedure, working to minimize swelling and restrict unwanted movement.

Our staff will provide you with a set of instructions outlining postoperative care specifics, including:

• Oral and topical medications
• Homeopathic supplements to decrease swelling and bruising and to relieve pain
• How to observe the surgical site for proper healing
• How to optimize your general health
• Cleaning and dressing instructions
• Scar gel and massage techniques
• When and how to contact Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert and their staff

Light physical activity can generally be resumed as healing progresses. Avoid pushing yourself back into the gym in the first few weeks, and opt instead for a brisk walk around the block. More strenuous exercises should not be attempted without clearance from your surgeon, and are typically permitted after four to six weeks.