A breast lift is a surgical, cosmetic procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to alter the shape of the breasts. The process involves removing excess skin and reshaping breast tissue to raise the breasts. You may consider a breast lift Fort Worth if your breasts have lost their elasticity, firmness, and fullness due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, heredity, gravity, aging, and breastfeeding. A breast lift helps women attain firmness in and around their breasts; this may also help improve one’s confidence. If you are already thinking about the possibility of a breast lift, understanding the risks involved will help you weigh the pros and cons.
As with any major surgery, a breast lift poses an adverse reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, and infection. You may also be allergic to surgical tape or other items used during or after the procedure. The following are other risks specific to a breast lift.
Loss of nipple or breast sensation
You will likely have decreased sensation in your breasts immediately after surgery. This is normal and is often due to a mixture of anesthetics and your body’s natural healing process. The feeling typically returns within several days, but this is not a guarantee. Sometimes the sensation in your nipples doesn’t return to normal. Talk to your plastic surgeon if loss of sensation is a concern.
Scarring
As with any surgery or procedure where incisions are made, there is some chance that you will have some scars. Scaring is a fickle thing that depends on factors like diet, genetics, incision site, and surgeon’s skill. Although scars are permanent, they usually soften within one to two years. Better still, bathing suits and bras typically hide scars from a breast lift. Additionally, there are scar revision techniques that can help minimize their appearance. It is rare for the scars to become thick and wide due to poor healing.
Trouble breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is usually possible after a breast lift, but some women might not produce enough milk. However, the likelihood of this occurring depends on the extent of your surgery. If your surgeon needs to remove some of the mild ducts and glands as part of the procedure, this causes lower milk production. If this is a concern, discuss it with your surgeon before surgery.
Uneven shape and size of breasts
Some changes during the healing process could result in unevenness in the shape and size of your breasts. Also, the procedure doesn’t alter your initial breast size but only makes the breast sit higher on your chest. Therefore, it is impossible to expect even breasts if you have uneven ones before.
Loss of the nipples or areolae
Some vessels that supply blood to your nipple may get damaged during the procedure. When the blood supply to the nipple or areolae stops, it can cause breast tissue damage, resulting in partial or total loss of the nipple or areola.
The decision to have a breast lift may be solely driven by the ambition to look perfect or societal and peer pressure. Regardless of the motivation, most women are usually happy with the results.
If you have been considering a breast lift, consult your surgeon at Kiran Polavarapu, MD, to know if the procedure is proper for you.