Dr. Bernier performs Mastopexy, also known as Breast Lift. It is a surgical procedure that consists in reducing ptosis (sagging of the breast caused by stretched skin). The surgery may be coupled with breast augmentation in cases where the ptosis is due to a massive loss of breast tissue. Mastopexy elevates the nipple and areola, giving back the breast its former shape and firmness.
There are several methods of performing a mastopexy (see the various classifications of ptosis in figure 1) |
- Amount of breast and fat tissue
- Amount of skin to be removed
- Position of breasts in relation to chest and arms
- Symmetry in volume of breasts and size of areolas
- Choice and taste of patient
The type of incisions determines the amount of skin to be removed (Figure 2). Once the excess skin has been removed, it is detached from the mammary gland. The gland is then attached to the pectoral muscle with permanent sutures. The nipple and areola are then repositioned (Figure 3).
The example below (see Figures 2 and 3) is a demonstration of the anchor-shaped incision
Depending on the technique used, the shape of the scar will be:
- An “anchor” (Figure 4)
- An “I” (no horizontal scar underneath breast fold (Figure 5)
- A periareolar incision (only around areola) (Figure 6)
technique | Ptosis | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
Periareolar (around areola) (Not recommended) | I ½ | Short scar |
|
Forme I (around the areola and vertical) (Not recommended) | II |
|
|
Anchor-shaped (around the areola, vertical and horizontal) (Recommended) | II III-a III-b |
|
|
Anchor-shaped (around the areola, vertical and horizontal) With fixation of the breast gland (Recommended) | II III-a III-b |
|
|
Usually, after one year the scars will hardly be visible. Mastopexy is performed under general or local anaesthesia and the surgery lasts approximately three hours
Convalescence takes 10 to 14 days.
For better results and to reduce the risks of skin necrosis, the patients must be non-smoker for at least 6 months to 1 year before the surgery (including vaping and marijuana use).
Here are some before and after pictures of patients who had a breast lift at Dr. Mario F Bernier’s clinic.
With vertical and horizontal periareolar incisions
(1 week post-op)
Photo for illustrative purposes only. No guarantee of results.
With periareolar incisions
vertical and horizontal
Photo for illustrative purposes only. No guarantee of results.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would! From the very first appointment, Dr. Bernier answered all my questions clearly and perfectly! Sometimes he even anticipated them! I loved my follow-ups, the staff and of course Dr.Bernier! I had surgery in February and it was the best decision of my life! My breasts are perfect thanks to you! Thank you 1000 times! Professionalism like we rarely see 🙂
M-E-G
06/07/2017
It has been 2 months since my surgery... The result is exactly as Dr Bernier said! I am completely satisfied with the reflection in my mirror!!! Me too... I should have done it much earlier! I have regained my confidence. I would like to thank Dr. Bernier again for his great availability during the most anxious moments during the whole healing process. It is reassuring to know that he can be reached directly. A special thanks to Jacinthe, who answered all my questions with the patience of an angel and a beautiful smile in her voice. See you soon...you make us feel important!
CR
04/25/2017
Breast augmentation
Clinical and surgical fees (breast augmentation without scar on breast) anesthesia fees, postoperative bra, and postoperative follow-ups. Sale taxes non-included. *Only a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier can determine if you are an ideal candidate for the surgery. **Price may vary, a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier is required.
Price upon request
Mastopexy (breast lift)
Clinical and surgical fees (3 to 4 hours surgery), anesthesia fees, postoperative bra, postoperative follow-ups. Sale taxes non-included. *Only a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier can determine if you are an ideal candidate for the surgery. **Price may vary, a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier is required.
Price upon request
Breast reduction
Clinical and surgical fees (4 to 5 hours surgery), anesthesia fees, postoperative bra, postoperative follow-ups. Sale taxe non-included. *Only a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier can determine if you are an ideal candidate for the surgery. **Price may vary, a medical evaluation with Dr Bernier is required. ***250g and less per breast (breast reduction for breasts over 250g is covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) and performed by a plastic surgeon in a hospital setting).
Upon request
Inverted nipple(s)
This surgery is only available in conjunction with a breast augmentation.
ULTIMATE GUIDE
Breast
ENLARGEMENT
ENLARGEMENT
A breast lift mainly corrects sagging and improves the position of the breasts, while breast augmentation aims to increase their volume using implants. In some cases, both procedures can be combined to achieve an optimal result.
A good candidate generally presents breast sagging caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging. A consultation allows the surgeon to evaluate skin quality, nipple position, and your aesthetic goals. For this surgery, it is important to be a non-smoker for at least 6 months to 1 year, not to be in the process of losing or gaining weight, and ideally to have completed your pregnancies.
A mastopexy mainly aims to correct the shape and position of the breasts. The natural volume is preserved, but the breasts may appear fuller due to the repositioning. If additional volume is desired, a breast augmentation can be considered about one year later.
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but light activities can generally be resumed after a few days. Returning to work (depending on the type of job) often occurs after one to two weeks.
The results are long-lasting, but natural aging, weight fluctuations, or a future pregnancy may influence the long-term outcome.
Yes, a breast lift is generally performed under general anesthesia in a medical setting that meets established safety standards.
Are you thinking of having
breast surgery for breast lift? Do not hesitate to contact us for more information or make an appointment for a consultation at our clinic in Laval!