Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures.
Cosmetic plastic surgery is an increasingly popular option for Americans who may be dissatisfied with their appearance, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. More than 10 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures were performed 2008 in the United States, with breast augmentation being the No. 1 surgical procedure. One type of breast augmentation procedure is the breast lift, which may be done with implants.
Function
The female breast may begin to sag as a result of a number of factors including pregnancy and breast-feeding, gravity, weight gain and the normal aging process. A breast lift, also referred to as a mastopexy, is a complex type of breast augmentation procedure that seeks to lift and reshape breasts that sag. Women may choose to have this procedure with or without breast implants.
Features
A breast lift procedure that is performed in conjunction with breast implants is more complex than a breast lift alone. The procedure will typically involve multiple incisions on the breast and around the areola in order to remove excess skin, to tighten the supporting tissue, to reshape the breast and to reposition the nipple, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. An incision also will need to be made to insert the implant.
Types
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two types of breast implants for use in conjunction with breast lift procedures. Saline-filled breast implants are approved for women who are at least 18 years of age. Women who are at least 22 years of age may choose to use silicone gel-filled breast implants during their breast lift procedure.
Benefits
A breast lift may help to restore support and firmness to the breasts. This procedure may reduce the size of the areola, which tends to enlarge with age. Many women choose to undergo a breast lift procedure in order to regain a more youthful appearance, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A breast lift procedure performed in conjunction with breast implants can increase the size, shape and fullness of the breasts.
Considerations
There are a number of complications which may be associated with all types of breast augmentation surgery, including a breast lift procedure with implants. This surgical procedure requires incisions that will leave scars, some of which may be significant. There are risks of infection, bleeding, change in breast sensitivity, changes in skin pigmentation on the breast, persistent pain and breast asymmetry. Patients should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon prior to undergoing this type of procedure in order to fully understand all the risks and benefits, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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