Frequent Questions About Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Below you will find a list of frequent questions about breast lift surgery. Hawaii residents considering plastic surgery often have many questions about their procedure. If your question isn't answered here, contact us with your question, and be sure to include the name of the procedure that interests you.
How is this procedure performed?
There are two types of breast lift procedures—the modified lift (Benelli) and the full lift. Your Hawaii cosmetic surgeon will help you decide upon the appropriate procedure for your specific needs.
Full Lift: The first incision is made around the dark area surrounding the nipple (areola) to allow a repositioning of the nipple to a higher, more attractive level on
the breast. The nipple itself is not removed, however. Then, a second incision is made horizontally under the breast fold (inframammary crease). The third
incision is made vertically from the areola's edge to the crease, creating an inverted t-shaped surgical opening. Excess skin is trimmed to tighten, firm and
recontour the breast for your desired projection. Then, the incisions are closed with small stitches (sutures) placed beneath the skin. Bandages are applied to
the breast for support.
Modified (Benelli) Lift: The Benelli Lift is sometimes called a "Donut Lift." This nickname comes from the circular incision is made around the dark area
surrounding the nipple (areola) used to remove a donut shaped swatch of breast tissue. After the excess skin is removed your Hawaii plastic surgeon will tighten and recontour
the breast. If desired, large areolae can be reduced in size to more proportionate with your new breast size. The incision is closed with small stitches (sutures) and
supportive bandages are applied to the breast. Benelli lifts leave a small scar around the nipple that very often fades into the nipples' natural border.
How do I prepare for my Hawaii breast surgery?
Photographs, which do not include your face, are important aids in planning and performing your breast lift in Hawaii. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure. During your preoperative consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of antibacterial soap. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your Hawaii breast surgery. Do not smoke ten days prior to and two days after surgery. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take prior to your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined again prior to your procedure.
How long does the procedure take?
Operating time is generally two to three hours.
What form of anesthesia is used for Hawaii breast enhancement?
You will require general anesthesia, administered by an expert anesthesiologist M.D. (medical doctor). This will allow you to "sleep" throughout the entire procedure.
Can I return home the same day?
Yes. This Hawaii breast surgery is performed on an ambulatory basis. However, it is necessary that you have someone to pick you up after the procedure, take you home, and stay with
you for at least 24 hours.
How long before I can return to normal activity?
Most Hawaii breast enhancement patients return to their usual activities in one week. However, you must not lift anything for the first two weeks and do no heavy lifting for the first four weeks.
If you're ready to learn more about breast lift, request a Free Breast Lift Consultation with Hawaii cosmetic surgeon Dr. S. Larry Schlesinger at his plastic surgery offices in Honolulu, Maui and Kona.
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