Mastopexy with implants is a plastic surgery procedure that combines lifting of sagging breasts with the insertion of breast implants, simultaneously achieving a higher, fuller breast with a harmonious shape. This procedure is the ideal solution for women who, in addition to ptosis (sagging), also present significant volume loss — a very common condition after pregnancies and breastfeeding, when the breasts deflate and lose their original shape. By combining both procedures in a single operation, the patient avoids the need for two separate surgeries.
The procedure simultaneously addresses two issues: ptosis and volume loss. The surgeon removes excess skin, repositions the nipple-areola complex to a higher position, and inserts breast implants to restore or increase the desired volume. Implants are generally placed in a dual plane position (partially under the pectoral muscle) to ensure optimal coverage and a natural appearance. The choice of implant type and size is personalized during the pre-operative consultation, considering the degree of ptosis, the amount of residual breast tissue, and the patient's expectations.
The procedure can be performed in different ways, chosen based on the patient's anatomical situation: • In a single surgical session: lifting and implants are performed in the same operation. This is the most common and preferred approach, offering a single recovery and immediate results • In two surgical stages: first the mastopexy is performed to lift and reshape the breast, then, after several months of stabilization, the implants are inserted. This approach is reserved for cases of very severe ptosis or very thin skin, where simultaneous combination could compromise tissue vascularization The choice between the two approaches is thoroughly discussed during the pre-operative consultation.
Mastopexy with implants is recommended for women who simultaneously present breast ptosis and volume loss: • Sagging and deflated breasts after one or more pregnancies and prolonged breastfeeding, with evident loss of fullness in the upper portion • Significant ptosis accompanied by reduced breast volume due to weight loss or aging • Desire for a higher, fuller breast with a more youthful and toned shape • Breast asymmetry in position and volume requiring both differentiated lifting and filling • Dissatisfaction with breasts that appear "deflated" in the upper half and drooping in the lower half
The procedure is not recommended in the following cases: • Ongoing pregnancy or breastfeeding, as hormonal changes and breast volume increase may compromise the result • Uninvestigated breast conditions requiring adequate diagnostic investigation first • Very severe ptosis with extremely thin and atrophic skin, where vascularization may be insufficient to simultaneously support lifting and implant placement (a two-stage approach is preferred in these cases) • Active smoking, which significantly compromises healing and tissue vascularization • Short-term planned pregnancies, which would alter the achieved result
The procedure takes 2-3 hours, as it combines mastopexy techniques with breast augmentation techniques. It is generally performed with an overnight stay to monitor post-operative recovery. Recovery requires approximately 2 weeks: swelling, chest tightness, and bruising are normal in the first days and gradually subside. A special support bra must be worn for 4-6 weeks. Sutures are progressively removed between the first and second week. Light daily activities can resume after 7-10 days, while sports should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Yes, mastopexy with implants is performed under general anesthesia, given the complexity of the procedure requiring both breast tissue reshaping and implant insertion. General anesthesia ensures maximum patient comfort and optimal operating conditions for the surgeon, allowing for the precision needed to achieve a symmetrical and natural result. A pre-operative anesthesiology consultation with complete preoperative tests is performed before surgery.
Results are visible immediately after surgery: the breasts appear higher, fuller, and with an improved shape right away. In the first weeks, swelling and the still-high position of the implants give a different appearance from the final result. Final results are appreciated after 4-6 months, when swelling has completely resolved, implants have settled into their natural position, tissues have stabilized, and scars have matured. The final result is harmonious, full breasts in a natural position.
Combining mastopexy with implant insertion is a technically more complex procedure than breast augmentation or mastopexy alone, and requires greater surgical experience to correctly balance the lifting with the implant volume. However, in the hands of an experienced surgeon, it does not significantly increase the overall risks. Careful pre-operative planning and choosing the most appropriate technique for the specific case are fundamental to achieving an optimal and safe result.
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