Many women decide to have a breast lift when gravity, aging or pregnancy haven’t been kind to their breasts. Women with breasts that sag, have lost volume or diminish overall confidence are excellent candidates for breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. Here are a few things patients should know about the recovery process to ensure the best healing time and results.

Before surgery, patients should ask their plastic surgeon:

• Will there be drains placed?
• What are normal symptoms that I should expect to experience?
• What are alarming symptoms that I should seek medical attention for?

Immediately following surgery patients will:

• Be taken to a recovery area and are expected to feel groggy while the immediate effects of anesthesia wear off.
• Experience some pain and discomfort. Nurses will prescribe pain killers as necessary.
• Experience swelling and redness in their breasts and chest.

One week post-operation patients should:

• Get out of bed for short periods of time and walk around slowly (walking helps circulation which assists healing!)
• Avoid lifting anything or any strenuous activities.
• Do their best to sleep on their back.

Between 2-6 weeks after surgery patients:

• Can return to work (often in the second week of recovery)
• Wear the surgical support bra that your surgeon has prescribed to you, this will only enhance surgical results and assist with healing.
• Avoid sexual activity for a minimum of 2 weeks.
• Should take extra care with their breasts and be considerably gentile.
• Will have stitches removed during this time period (generally 2-3 weeks post-op)
• May experience diminished nipple sensation, typically this fades over time and normal nipple sensation if naturally restored. However, for some patients, lack of nipple sensation remains permanent.
• Should not exercise until their plastic surgeon has cleared them for physical activity.

Results will:

• Be noticeable immediately and improve as initial swelling/brusing subsides
• Last for decades, although aging and gravity will impact breast placement in years to come. However, after a breast lift, breasts will not droop or sag to the same degree that they did prior to surgery.
• Scars will fade overtime, your plastic surgeon may prescribe a special cream to help diminish the appearance of scars.
• Improve confidence and self-esteem in patients with realistic expectations and goals.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) in Okatie

For more information about breast lift (mastopexy) or any other service we offer, contact Dr. Smith today at 843.705.8940. Our offices are located in South Carolina, serving the communities of Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Okatie. We look forward to hearing from you!