Breast

Breast Lift

Appropriate candidates for this procedure are non-smoking women in good general health with sagging breasts due to past pregnancies, genetics, aging, or massive weight loss.

Patients are seen in consultation and their goals are discussed. Dr. Casso suggests deferring surgery, if possible, until patients have decided on not having more children, as future pregnancies typically result in further enlargement and subsequent shrinking of the breasts, and recurrent sagging. Patients who are losing weight are also advised to defer surgery until their weight is stable, for the same reasons.

In the breast lift, or mastopexy procedure, Dr. Casso strives to make maximum use of the patient’s own tissue to provide fullness in the right places, and, if necessary, remove areas of laxity extending from the breast towards the underarm area.

Some patients desire an increase in size of the breast, or to achieve rounding of the upper aspect of the breast. In these patients, a breast implant is recommended in addition to the breast lift in order to achieve the desired result (mastopexy/augmentation).

Women who smoke are advised to avoid any contact with nicotine for several weeks prior to considering breast lift surgery, in order to minimize risks of complications.

Dr. Casso discusses the planned incisions in the consultation, so as to result in scars which may be concealed in the patient’s clothing.

Breast Lift Process

Dr. Casso performs this procedure under general anesthesia at Houston Methodist St. John Hospital on an outpatient basis. While this procedure is sometimes performed under local anesthesia in outpatient facilities, Dr. Casso recommends general anesthesia at Houston Methodist St. John Hospital, which provides the patient with a comfortable surgical experience, and close, expert nursing attention, treatment of postoperative nausea, if present, and immediate medical attention in the event of any unforeseen emergency. The option for surgery in a full-service, state-of-the-art facility such as Houston Methodist St. John provides patients with a measure of safety and security which is unmatched.

Although design of incisions varies, incisions are usually made around the nipple-areolar complex, extending down to the crease, and within the crease under the breast. The nipple-areola complex is usually made smaller and repositioned higher on the breast and excess skin is removed on the undersurface of the breast. Usually, complete removal of the nipple is not needed, as it may be kept attached to underlying breast tissue while repositioned higher. This allows most women to retain sensation. The breast is also reshaped for a more pleasing contour. If necessary, a breast implant if inserted under the pectoralis major muscle for augmentation or reshaping purposes (mastopexy/augmentation).

The breast lift procedure normally takes about two and a half hours.

Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery

After the procedure, bulky dressings are placed over the incision lines. Patients are typically discharged in the afternoon after surgery. Initial discomfort is alleviated with oral medication. Patients are generally seen at Dr. Casso’s office the day after surgery. Patients may shower beginning about three days after surgery. Sutures are completely removed within 10 days in most cases. A light cami bra will be provided and may be worn beginning the day after surgery and light activity may be resumed in seven to 10 days. Vigorous exercise is discouraged for about a month.

Obtain Financial Information

Patient Reviews

Find Out Why Our Patients Love Us