Over time, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and gravity can cause breasts to lose their youthful shape and firmness. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a more youthful appearance. This procedure can also reduce the size of the areola and, if desired, enhance breast volume with implants. At Cornerstone Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Coville performs breast lifts using techniques that minimize scarring and maximize aesthetic results.
Mastopexy usually takes from 1.5-3 hours for both breasts. Many techniques are available, but Dr. Coville almost routinely foregoes the traditional anchor-shaped incision that many surgeons still use. He feels very strongly about the need to limit scarring on the breast. His limited scar techniques also provide a better-shaped breast with a stronger and longer-lasting lift. The incision defines the area from which breast tissue and skin will be removed and determines the new location of the nipple. In Dr. Coville’s experience, simply removing the excess skin is a procedure often doomed to failure. Because the skin of the breast has lost its elasticity, it is not suitable to support the breast by itself.
By removing some breast tissue and reshaping the breast “cone,” Dr. Coville can create an “internal brassiere” that supports the breasts more firmly and creates a much more attractive breast shape than traditional procedures. During the mastopexy, Dr. Coville will also move the nipple and areola up to a higher, more youthful position. The skin around the areola is then drawn down to redrape the breast. Stitches go around the areola and in a line extending downwards from the nipple and towards the lower crease of the breast.
Even less extensive incision patterns may be enough for some patients, especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging. One such procedure is the ‘doughnut’ (or concentric) mastopexy, where circular incisions are made around the areola, and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed. If you have an implant inserted along with your breast lift, it will be placed in a pocket directly under the breast tissue or deeper under the muscle of the chest wall.
In your initial Jersey Shore breast lift consultation, Dr. Coville will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques may be the most appropriate for you based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. Every patient and every physician will have a different view of what is a desirable size and shape for breasts. It is very important, therefore, to discuss your expectations fully and frankly with Dr. Coville. He will examine and measure your breasts and discuss the variables that may affect the procedure. Things such as your age, the size and shape of your breasts, the condition of your skin, and whether an implant is advisable will all be fully reviewed. Together, you and Dr. Coville will agree where the nipple and areola will be positioned since the procedure raises them. Dr. Fred will fully describe the procedures he feels will work for you as well as explain any risks or limitations. Be sure you understand the scarring that will result.
Dr. Coville will also ask you about any medical conditions that could cause problems during or after surgery, such as high blood pressure, blood clotting issues, or any tendency to form excessive scars. Be open, particularly about smoking and any drugs, medications, or vitamins you are taking — aspirin, for example, can affect clotting. Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with him and our staff. He will be equally frank with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of your options. Dr. Coville will also explain the type of anesthesia to be used, where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved. Do ask any questions you may have about discomfort, healing time, and so on.
Our staff at Cornerstone Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine in New Jersey will provide detailed instructions to prepare you for your surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain medications. Dr. Coville may require you to have a breast x-ray (mammogram) before he agrees to operate if your age and family history suggest this would be wise. While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. Someone should also be available to help you at home, for a day or two. If you would like, we can arrange a health aide to assist you during this period. If you are visiting from out of town or abroad, we will facilitate all the arrangements to make your recovery as comfortable as possible. Be sure to ask about our Seaside Recovery options.
Dr. Fred Coville is renowned for his exceptional mastopexy results. An early pioneer in short-scar and minimal-scar breast lifts, his surgical techniques deliver better, longer-lasting results with reduced scarring compared to traditional methods. This ensures women can enjoy the benefits of breast enhancement without unnecessary disfigurement.
Technique |
Short Scar Breast Lift |
Minimal Scar Breast Lift |
Autologous Fat Transfer Breast Lift |
Combination Breast Lift with Ancillary Procedures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incisions | Short vertical or lollipop incision, minimizing scarring | Short incisions around the areola or along the inframammary fold | Small incisions for liposuction and fat injection | Varied depending on specific procedures performed |
| Recovery | Faster recovery with reduced post-operative discomfort | Quicker recovery with minimal scarring | Short recovery period with minimal scarring | Recovery time may be slightly longer due to multiple procedures |
| Concerns Addressed | Addresses mild to moderate breast sagging without extensive scarring | Targets mild sagging and ptosis with minimal visible scarring | Addresses volume loss and mild sagging, providing a natural augmentation | Addresses multiple breast concerns simultaneously for comprehensive enhancement |
| Scars | Minimal scarring usually confined to around the areola and vertical line | Minimal scarring, often confined to around the areola or along natural breast creases | Minimal scarring at liposuction sites, usually hidden in natural creases | Scarring depends on the combination of procedures performed |
| Results | Improved breast shape, lift, and projection with less visible scarring | Enhanced breast contour, elevation, and symmetry with minimal scarring | Enhanced breast volume, shape, and symmetry with natural-looking results | Comprehensive improvement in breast appearance and function based on individual needs |
| Ideal Candidate | Suitable for individuals with mild to moderate breast ptosis and minimal skin laxity | Suitable for patients with mild breast sagging and good skin elasticity | Ideal for patients seeking natural breast augmentation without implants | Suitable for patients with multiple breast concerns requiring comprehensive enhancement |
| Risks | Risks include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, and changes in nipple sensation | Risks may include hematoma, seroma, and changes in nipple sensation | Risks include fat necrosis, uneven fat distribution, and potential need for touch-up procedures | Risks include increased surgical complexity, prolonged recovery, and potential for additional complications |
These types of breast lift procedures offer various options to address different degrees of breast sagging, volume loss, and aesthetic concerns while minimizing scarring and achieving natural-looking results.
Your breasts will be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain should not be severe. If you’ve had a breast implant inserted below the muscles of the chest, you will most likely have a bit more pain. You’re likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you’ll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication, which Dr. Coville will prescribe before surgery.
For protection, you’ll wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. After a few days, you will be able to switch to a soft support bra. You will have to wear this around the clock for 3-4 weeks. All your stitches will slowly dissolve on their own, but moisturizer may need to be applied several times a day if your breast skin is very dry. You can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin that should subside after about 6 weeks. In some patients, however, the numbness may last a year or more and rarely may become permanent.
You will be up and about in a day or two but do not plan on returning to work for a week or more. Healing takes time. Avoid lifting anything over your head for 3-4 weeks and, if you have any unusual symptoms, call us immediately. Detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities may include no sex for a week or more and no strenuous sports for about a month. After that, you can gradually resume these activities. If you become pregnant, the operation should not affect your ability to breastfeed because your milk ducts and nipples will be left intact.
Any scars will be firm and pink or red for at least 6 weeks. Then they may remain the same size for several months before they tighten up. After several months, your scars will fade, although they will never disappear completely. Dr. Coville will want to see you during this period to determine if further treatment of your scars is necessary, so they heal as inconspicuously as possible.
Dr. Coville makes every effort to camouflage scarring and create a pleasing breast shape for you. Nevertheless, you must remember mastopexy scars are more extensive than those created in routine breast augmentation, and they are permanent. With time, they should eventually fade to thin white lines. Fortunately, Dr. Fred will keep them as small as possible and place them so you can wear even low-cut tops and bikinis.
Remember, a breast lift won’t keep you firm forever. Gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight fluctuations will eventually have the inevitable effect again. If you choose to have an implant inserted at the same time, the additional weight may make you sag sooner. You are far more likely to be happy with your mastopexy if you understand the procedure thoroughly and if you approach the surgery with realistic expectations.
For most patients, the results are extremely satisfying. Your decision to have a breast lift is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand. What is important is how you feel about it. If you’ve met your personal goals, then your surgery is a success.
The procedure can enhance your self-confidence and make you look younger and shapelier. However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about the outcome. Ideal candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally stable women seeking to address sagging breasts. While breasts of all sizes can be lifted, the results may vary depending on factors such as breast size and skin elasticity. It’s advisable to postpone a breast lift if you’re planning to have more children, as pregnancy can affect the results.
While complications are rare, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with mastopexy. These may include bleeding, infection, and scarring. Dr. Coville employs techniques to minimize scarring and reduce the risk of complications. Following post-operative instructions closely is crucial to ensure optimal healing and results. Dr. Coville will discuss potential risks and limitations with you during your consultation and address any concerns you may have.
To further enhance your results, Dr. Coville frequently performs ancillary procedures during a breast lift. With these comprehensive and personalized techniques, Dr. Coville ensures that each patient achieves a rejuvenated, natural look with minimal downtime and optimal results.
The cost of a breast lift can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and geographical location. During your consultation with Dr. Coville, you will receive a personalized quote tailored to your specific needs and goals.
A Vampire Breast Lift is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that involves using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) extracted from your blood to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of the breasts. Unlike traditional lifts, which involve surgery, the Vampire Lift is a minimally invasive procedure that can improve breast shape and firmness.
In most cases, the surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, if the surgery is performed for medical reasons, such as correcting breast asymmetry or addressing physical discomfort caused by sagging breasts, insurance coverage may be possible. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage eligibility.
The longevity of breast lift results can vary depending on factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle, and weight fluctuations. While a mastopexy can provide long-lasting improvement in breast shape and firmness, natural aging processes and gravity may eventually affect the results over time. Maintaining a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle can help prolong the benefits of a breast lift.
Yes, a breast lift can be performed without implants. During the procedure, excess skin and breast tissue are removed, and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped and lifted to achieve a more youthful appearance. Dr. Coville will discuss your options and recommend the most suitable approach based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Pain levels can vary from person to person, but most patients experience some discomfort during the initial stages of recovery. Dr. Coville will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort, and most patients find that pain gradually decreases over the following days and weeks. Following post-operative care instructions, including wearing a supportive bra and avoiding strenuous activities, can help minimize discomfort and promote healing.
While the procedure does not typically interfere with a woman’s ability to breastfeed, it’s essential to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with Dr. Coville during your consultation. In some cases, changes to the nipple and areola position during the procedure may affect milk ducts or sensation. However, many women successfully breastfeed after breast lift surgery.
Incisions typically take several weeks to heal fully. Initially, incisions may appear red or raised, but they should gradually fade and flatten over time. Dr. Coville will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help promote optimal healing of incisions, including proper wound care and avoiding activities that may put stress on the incision sites.
While changes in nipple sensation are possible after surgery, they are usually temporary and resolve over time. Some patients may experience temporary numbness or hypersensitivity in the nipples and surrounding areas, but sensation typically returns to normal as the nerves heal.
The surgical scars are permanent but should fade and become less noticeable over time. Dr. Coville uses techniques to reduce scarring and strategically places incisions to conceal scars within natural breast contours and creases. While scars may initially appear pink or red, they should gradually fade to thin white lines that are less conspicuous, especially when covered by clothing or swimwear.
Written By: Dr. Frederick Coville
Frederick A. Coville, M.D., Cornerstone Plastic Surgery’s Owner and Medical Director
Frederick A. Coville, M.D., Cornerstone Plastic Surgery’s Owner and Medical Director, has been an Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon for over 25 years. He firmly believes each of us possesses an inner “Foundational Beauty.”
As a student of beauty all his life, he calls upon his naturally artistic eye and God-given talents as a surgeon to deliver the results you demand. Dr. Fred likes to say, “It’s my job to help you find Your Beautiful!”
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Dr. Fred Coville, is a renowned Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon. He proudly extends his services to Toms River, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Ocean County, South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. With a distinguished career spanning 25 years, Dr. Coville is a trusted professional delivering personalized and natural-looking results. His expertise caters to clients in locations such as Atlantic City, Trenton, Toms River, Vineland, Bridgeton, Hammonton, Cape May, and Cherry Hill.
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