A mastopexy also called a breast lift, is conducted by a plastic surgeon to improve the shape of your breasts and make you look younger. Pregnancy and the natural age-related reduction of skin elasticity can cause sagging of the breasts, and a mastopexy produces satisfying results for women by creating a firmer, more youthful look.
In a mastopexy, the excess skin is removed, followed by a reshaping of the breasts to raise them. If you’re considering having a breast lift, here’s what the recovery process is like.
What Should I Expect After a Mastopexy?
Following mastopexy plastic surgery of the breasts, the surgeon places tubes near your incision sites to facilitate drainage of excess fluids during recovery. The doctor will also place gauze over the surgical areas, and you will wear a special surgical bra for support while you recover.
Your plastic surgeon will give you specific instructions that you should follow to avoid complications and to have optimum results from your breast lift. Take the prescribed medication (such as antibiotics) as directed, since it will protect you from an infection. If you stop taking it too soon, you’ll be vulnerable to developing an infection.
Pain medication will also be prescribed. Do not ignore unexpected pain, signs of infection such as pus, or unusual bleeding – report any abnormal signs or changes to your doctor. It is better to be overly cautious than not cautious enough.
How Long Will Recovery Take?
Your breasts will be red, sore, bruised, and swollen during your recovery from the operation, but these symptoms should begin to subside within about two weeks. You will continue to notice a gradual improvement over the next several months.
It is normal to feel numbness in and around the nipple area for about a month. You should be able to shift from the medical bra to a soft support bra soon after the surgery – your doctor will explain the timeframe you can expect since every woman’s surgery is different and the healing time will be different.
When Can I Get Back to My Regular Routine?
Avoid any strenuous activity within the first few weeks following your surgery, because overexertion can undo what was done in the operation. Avoid lifting heavy objects and bending. Keep stress levels low – remember that your body is still recovering, and being in a relaxed state will facilitate healing.
Rest as much as you can, and lie down on your back rather than on your side or chest. Sexual activity should be avoided for at least two weeks following a mastopexy. Your doctor will also explain how long you should avoid exposing your chest area to sunlight, water, and other elements while it heals.
When in doubt, always check with your doctor. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions, and share everything you feel and notice about your breasts or your general well-being. Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits after the surgery for the removal of the stitches and tubes, and to make sure your breasts are healing properly.
Plastic Surgeons in Rapid City, SD
Here at Black Hills Plastic Surgery, we offer our clients various options for breast enhancement, from breast augmentation to breast lift surgery. Our plastic surgery team has the training, skill, and experience in producing natural-looking results that our patients love.
Schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons today by calling us at (605) 343-7208, or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you look and feel spectacular.
