While there does seem to be an increase in the number of women undergoing breast lift surgery, the media makes the rise in popularity of this procedure seem more dramatic than it actually is. More baby boomers are choosing to undergo plastic surgery in recent years because it has become more socially acceptable for people to make cosmetic improvements. Surgeons are also providing more data, resulting in what appears to be large waves of surgeries compared to 10 or 20 years ago. Many factors contribute to how people perceive information and statistics, but what matters most is that people only have elective surgery for personal reasons rather than trends. Whatever the number of women undergoing breast lift surgery, this procedure can have a tremendously positive impact on a patient’s quality of life.
Traditional Breast Lift Surgery
Today, many surgeons perform breast lift surgery using one of three different techniques: donut, lollipop, and anchor. The allure of the donut or lollipop incisions usually comes from the promise of creating fewer incisions and resulting in less scarring. However, many patients benefit most from the tried-and-true anchor incision because it addresses the entire breast and allows for optimal improvement. The truth is that, while the anchor method requires an additional incision, the resulting scar is imperceivable under a bikini or bra. Additionally, the outcome can be far more appealing than that of a lollipop or donut lift, except in rare cases where a patient only has a small degree of breast sagging. Patients may gravitate towards the newer approaches to cosmetic procedures, but new does not always mean better.
What Sets the Anchor Breast Lift Apart
According to Dr. Bridges, the bra line incision in an anchor breast lift method is necessary for two reasons. First, it helps prevent the upward displacement of the nipples, which can cause them to become exposed in bathing suits or low-cut tops. Secondly, it reduces the risk of producing a “bottomed out” breast appearance, preserving the results for longer than a lollipop lift would.
Pain Management After Breast Surgery
No matter which type of breast enhancement you decide to undergo or which techniques are used, Dr. Bridges routinely uses long-lasting anesthetics to provide patients with four to six hours of pain relief after surgery. Taking the prescribed medications before the anesthetic wears off helps maintain optimal pain management during this initial stage of recovery. A longer-lasting anesthetic may be injected into the treated areas for pain relief that lasts as long as two days. The details of each patient’s procedure are discussed in full during their consultation appointment.
For more information about breast surgery, please fill out our online contact form. To find out if you are a candidate for breast enhancement, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges by calling our office at 318.219.8555 or 888.305.6693.