ABSTRACT
Introduction Mastopexy, or breast lift, is a surgical procedure that can help restore a more
youthful and natural shape to sagging (ptotic) breasts. Gravity, pregnancy, nurs ing, weight gain and aging can all lead to ptosis and a loss of firmness. Breast implants in conjunction with mastopexy can increase breast firmness and their size. The goals o f surgery are to create improved projection and a more youthful, uplifted appearance while minimizing visible scarring. In addition to reshaping the breast, mastopexy can also reduce the size o f the nipple areola complex (NAC). Mastopexy can be performed in any size breast; however very large breasts may be more suited to a formal breast reduction procedure. Pregnancy and nursing will usually stretch breasts that have been previously lifted; therefore the best out comes are seen in patients who are past their childbearing years. Ideal candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally stable women who are realistic about what the surgery can accomplish. It is important to emphasize that the tradeoff for lifted, youthful breasts are the scars that remain after surgery. Patients with rela tively small breasts and minimal ptosis may be candidates for modified proce dures requiring less extensive incisions.
