An anchor breast lift, or a full mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgery that is used to enhance and rejuvenate the breasts. This surgery is one of the most comprehensive techniques for dealing with sagging breasts and is recommended by most doctors.
An anchor breast lift is the most popular breast lift technique. The anchor mastopexy is favored over other techniques, since the plastic surgeon is given maximum access, allowing him to reshape the breasts as required. Other techniques include concentric mastopexy and vertical mastopexy.
The procedure is a relatively permanent one, but some patients do opt for a second surgery after time has passed and some degree of sagging has taken place due to aging and gravity.
Before the Anchor Breast Lift Procedure
The first step for getting a breast lift is to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon. After discussing your goals and doing general medical checks, the doctor will be able to recommend different surgery options. In most cases, an anchor lift is recommended. Doctors will also go into detail regarding expected results so that patients remain realistic.
Patients must make preparations for time off of work, as breast lifts require four to six weeks of recovery time. Other precautionary instructions include not smoking for a few weeks before the surgery and adjusting the intake of certain medications. If the medication leads to swelling or increased bleeding, doctors require you to avoid taking them and may prescribe alternatives. Patients who are pregnant or need to breastfeed are not eligible for this surgery.
The Procedure
An anchor breast lift surgery is performed at an outpatient institute or the doctor’s personal clinic and generally take a few hours. Before the surgery, surgical marks are made on the patient’s breasts, and then the patient receives anesthesia. The surgeon makes an anchor-shaped incision starting from the areola, going down to the point where the breast meets the ribcage, and then stretching in a curved horizontal line on the breast fold. The anchor-shaped incision gives surgeons more access compared to other breast lift surgeries. The surgeon removes extra skin and repositions the tissue. The areolae are also moved up before closing the incision. Dressings are used to cover up the wound, and drains may be placed to get rid of excess fluids.
The Anchor Breast Lift Recovery Process
Patients will have trouble with basic activities like sitting, eating, driving and dressing for 48 hours after the surgery, so it will be necessary to arrange a ride home in advance. It is recommended to arrange for close friends or relatives to help with everyday tasks for a time. Detailed activity instructions will be provided by your doctor and patients are advised to follow them strictly.
The patient may feel a degree of soreness and discomfort after the surgery, but pain medication is provided immediately after the surgery. Stitches from the procedure will be removed during follow-up appointments.
Find Out More
Dr. Morwood has over 20 years’ experience as a plastic surgeon, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and for years he has served as either the chief or vice chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery of Monterey.
For more information about Dr. Morwood or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us here.
