Shape and Firm Up Your Bust with Breast Reduction or Breast Lift Surgery

Breast Lift

Many women find that the contour of their breasts changes as a natural part of the aging process. Childbirth, weight fluctuations, and other factors can cause breasts that were once firm and perky to hang lower on the chest. Breast lift surgery allows women to restore a youthful contour to the chest. Many patients choose to combine breast lift with breast augmentation in order to restore lost volume or simply to enhance the bustline. Breast lift can also be incorporated into a body contouring procedure to enhance results.

The Breast Lift Procedure

The traditional breast lift technique involves making an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, down to the bottom of the breast, and along the crease at the base of the breast. Through this incision, the surgeon will remove excess skin and fat and then relocate the nipple, closing the incisions. Skin that was above the nipple prior to surgery is pulled down to give the breast a firmer shape. In some cases, liposuction may be used to contour the areas around the breasts.

After Breast Lift Surgery

After a breast lift, most patients are able to return to work within two weeks, and can partake in other activities within four weeks. It is important to wear a support bra for about six weeks after surgery until swelling goes down. Some breast lift patients experience mild discomfort or lose nipple sensation for up to eight weeks after surgery; in rare cases, the loss of feeling in the nipples is permanent. Because childbirth and breastfeeding can dramatically affect the size and shape of the breasts, most patients should wait until after having children to undergo a breast lift.

Breast Reduction

Significantly large breasts can be a source of discomfort and insecurity for some women. Neck and back pain and skin irritation are common among women with overly large breasts. By surgically reducing the size of the breasts, Dr. Bendor-Samuel or Dr. Boileaucan address these symptoms and make the chest more proportional to the rest of the body. Male breast reduction is also available at The Landings Surgical Centre in Halifax for men who are affected by gynecomastia.

The Breast Reduction Procedure

The techniques required for breast reduction vary from patient to patient. In some cases, liposuction alone can accomplish the desired result, while in others only incisions around the nipple and along the breast crease are required. The most common approach to breast reduction is an anchor-shaped incision around the areola, down the bottom of the breast, and along the breast crease. Excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin are removed before the nipple is relocated and the incisions are closed. In unusual cases, the nipple may be detached and repositioned, but most often it is left connected to the breast throughout the procedure.

After Breast Reduction Surgery

After breast reduction surgery, patients should expect to rest and recover at home for the first week. The chest will be bruised and swollen for a few weeks. Some level of discomfort is common during recovery, but this can be controlled with medication. It is also important to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks after the procedure. Our surgeons give our breast reduction patients specific recovery instructions to speed the healing process for optimal surgical results.

Contact Our Practice

For women concerned about the appearance of their breasts, breast reduction and breast lift surgery offer the hope of dramatic improvement. Serving Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland, The Landings Surgical Centre in Halifax is the area's premier cosmetic surgery practice. Contact our practice today to learn how we can help you.