From the Guidelines
The correct answer is mastopexy, which is the medical term for a surgical breast lift procedure. Mastopexy is a procedure that surgically raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to create a more youthful breast contour. This procedure specifically addresses breast ptosis (sagging) without necessarily changing the breast volume. In contrast, breast reduction involves removing breast tissue to decrease size, breast augmentation increases breast size typically using implants, and mammoplasty is a general term for any plastic surgery performed on the breasts, which could include reduction, augmentation, or lifting procedures. Mastopexy is indicated for patients who are satisfied with their breast size but unhappy with the position or shape due to factors like aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations, as mentioned in 1.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the need for a mastopexy include:
- The likely cosmetic outcome of lumpectomy or other breast surgeries should be evaluated before surgery, as mentioned in 1 and 1.
- Oncoplastic techniques for breast conservation can extend breast-conserving surgical options in situations where the resection itself would likely yield an unacceptable cosmetic outcome, as mentioned in 1 and 1.
- Mastopexy techniques can be used in conjunction with other breast surgeries to improve the cosmetic outcome, as mentioned in 1 and 1.
- The goal of mastopexy is to create a more youthful breast contour, which can improve the patient's quality of life and self-esteem, as implied in 1 and 1.
It's worth noting that while the provided evidence primarily discusses breast reconstruction in the context of breast cancer treatment, the principles of mastopexy and its indications can be applied more broadly to any patient seeking to improve the shape and position of their breasts. As stated in 1, mastopexy techniques can be used to fill the resulting surgical defect and avoid the creation of significant breast deformity.
In terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, mastopexy is generally considered a safe procedure with low risks of serious complications, as implied in 1 and 1. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and benefits that should be carefully considered and discussed with a qualified healthcare provider. Mastopexy is a viable option for patients seeking to improve the appearance of their breasts, and its benefits can have a positive impact on a patient's quality of life, as mentioned in 1 and 1.
From the Research
Surgical Breast Lift Term
Description of Mastopexy
- Mastopexy is a surgical procedure that aims to create youthful, beautiful appearing breasts by addressing the skin envelope and breast parenchyma 3
- It involves the manipulation of the breast parenchyma to improve the longevity of breast ptosis correction 3
- Mastopexy can be performed using various techniques, including periareolar, vertical, and Wise pattern techniques 3, 5, 6