Augmentation mastopexy is used to tighten the skin in the breast, lift the nipples to a more juvenile position and restore the volume of the breast using implants or fat grafting. The procedure often constitutes part of what is known as 'mommy makeover' in addition to abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). 

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Augmentation mastopexy is often appropriate for women with saggy breast as a result of volume loss and skin stretch caused by hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or aging. 

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Also, mastopexy in combination with fat grafting can be used in women who wish to have their implants permanently removed. The procedure would aim to reduce the excess of stretched skin and restore the natural volume of the breast. 

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Evidence shows that effects of surgery can not only improve the physical appearance, but can also enhance self-esteem and quality of life.

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Consultation will allow assessment and detailed discussion about what is possible taking under consideration personal circumstances and desires. There will be an opportunity to discuss alternatives, long-term implications and risks of surgery. 

 

Augmentation mastopexy is designed to enhance and improve the appearance of one's own breast, but is not designed to completely change one's own natural breast characteristics in order to perfectly match the ideal. 

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The information below will provide basic explanation about what is involved in surgical procedures used for breast augmentation mastopexy. If you have more questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

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Before arranging a consultation, it is important to think carefully about what one would like to achieve to be able to discuss specific concerns and desires in detail with the surgeon. If your expectations are realistic and you are in good physical and mental health, you should be a good candidate for surgery. 

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What to expect from the consultation

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During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired size and anything related to the appearance of the breast that you feel is important to you. This will help the doctor to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved. You will be asked about your medical history, current medications, drug allergies, smoking and history of breast disease including family history. You will also be examined and the doctor will consider factors such as size, shape, nipple position and skin quality. Measurements will be taken which are necessary for  planning for the surgery. An uplift is an integral part of augmentation mastopexy to achieve the enhancement. If you opt for breast implants to restore the volume and fullness to the breast rather than fat grafting, you will try implant sizers and you might consider having 3D simulations in order to determine the size you wish to have. Medical photographs might be taken as well. You will receive a letter summarizing the consultation along with surgery fees. Typically, minimum 2 consultations will be required in order to allow time to absorb information and agree on the size prior to surgery. 

Clinical psychology consultation might be suggested in order to better assess your expectations and the degree the problem is affecting you. Joined effort from multidisciplinary team helps to improve the overall outcome of surgery. If you are are over 40 years old, you would be required to have a screening mammogram before surgery. 

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What does the surgery entail

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Augmentation mastopexy can be done in one or two stages. Ms Majdak-Paredes will discuss in a great detail pros and cons of one or two stage approach. Silicone breast implants are typically placed behind the breast tissue or in dual plane (behind the muscle) depending on the amount of breast tissue you have and your anatomy. The surgeon will discuss this in detail during the consultation. Incisions will also be discussed. 

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Techniques used for breast uplift vary, but the most common ones involve an anchor-shaped or a lollipop-shaped scar that circles the areola, extends vertically downwards and to the breast fold. Ms Majdak-Paredes will utilise latest techniques to minimise the length of the incision necessary for surgery. Sometimes limited liposuction might be required to define the breast footprint. The technique will allow best possible contouring of the breast. Scars usually settle down well over time. Newer procedures offer better longevity to such uplifts. 

 

Augmentation mastopexy in one or two stages is usually carried out under general anaesthetic and takes approximately 3 hours. Small amount of breast tissue might need to be removed during the procedure and it will always be tested for any possible abnormality.  

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Recovery takes 4-6 weeks. ​You would require a nurse appointment a week after surgery and a consultant appointments 4-6 weeks after surgery or earlier if required.  ​You will need a front-fastening surgical bra which will help to support the breast, reduce the swelling and provide comfort. 

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Risks and implications will be discussed in detail during your consultation. 

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Regarding future breast cancer screening, in patients with breast implants special views (Eklund views) are typically required to visualise the breast tissue in front of the implant. However, if you have any concerns regarding implications of augmentation mastopexy surgery on future breast cancer screening it would be prudent to see a Consultant Breast Surgeon or Clinical Oncology Consultant to discuss this in detail. 

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​Risks and implications will be discussed in detail during your consultation. 

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