Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Lift
Q: Can you get a breast lift without implants?
A: Yes. This involves removing skin in much the same way as a breast reduction, but without removing any breast tissue to go with it.
Q: Can you get a breast lift just with an implant?
A: Yes. In patients who do not have excessive sagginess, this is done very frequently and will require evaluation by Dr. Wallace to determine if you are a candidate for this. As a general rule if your nipple is not more than 2 centimeters below the fold this is at least a consideration.
Q: What about the scars? Where are they and do they go away?
A: The scars for a mastopexy vary greatly from an inverted T somewhat similar to a breast reduction to just the scars for a breast augmentation to one that just goes only around the nipple. Exactly what kind of scar and how much you can expect it to fade will depend upon your exact situation and will be discussed thoroughly in your consultation with Dr. Wallace. For more information, see the breast augmentation FAQ's.
Q: I have heard of the Button breast lift operation. What is that about?
A: The Button breast lift is an operation that accomplishes the lift, with or without an implant using a scar around the areola and a transverse scar. There is no vertical scar. We have been using this operation for since 1993 and much more commonly for the last 3 years. In my experience it is very good for many patients as the absence of a vertical scar really improves the post op appearance. Also the option of a small breast implant is attractive for many patients. Patients generally qualify for this operation by having enough sag such that the top of the areola is at or below the inframammary fold. We have been VERY happy with the post op results with this operation and recommend it for most breat lift patients. It has also proven very long lasting.
Q: I have heard of the Biggs-Graff operation. What is that about?
A: Dr. Thomas Biggs of Houston, one of my professors during residency, popularized an operation invented by Dr. Graff of Brazil that involves moving some of the bottom pole tissue up behind the nipple and securing it there with a strap of pectoral muscle. A short vertical scar and no transverse scar results. In our experience, this is the best breast lift operation for people who don't need an implant and who have a bulky lower breast that remits itself to being repositioned upward. Also this operation lasts much longer than some other types of breast lifts.
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