Techniques I commonly perform include the 'peri-areolar or donut mastopexy', 'vertical scar or lollipop' and 'inverted 't'' mastopexy's.

Peri-areolar / donut mastopexy / Benelli mastopexy

The incision is around the areola, removing a ring of skin from around the areola. Sutures are then placed around the areola and the skin is tightened like a purse string to lift the breast.

This technique is indicated for mild cases of breast ptosis.

Vertical mastopexy or lollipop

The incision is made around the areola and then down the centre of the breast to the inframammary fold.

This technique is used for mild to moderate breast ptosis.

Inverted 'T' mastopexy

The incisions are made around the areola, down the centre of the lower portion of the breast and then transversely in the inframammary fold.

The length of the transverse incision in the inframammary fold is determined by the amount of skin excess to be removed. The scar remains hidden completely below the lower half of the breast in the fold.

The technique is used for those with moderate to severe breast ptosis.

With all these techniques the areola can and usually is reduced to create the desired proportions.

In addition to lifting and reshaping sagging breasts their volume can also be modified to create the optimal size. In cases of mild sagging, a breast augmentation with implants may be used alone, to elevate the breast and create the optimal shape with minimal scarring.

In more severe degrees of breast sagging, especially when breast are small, breast implants can be used in conjunction with a breast lift to achieve the desired result.

Length of procedure

Approximately two hours.

Anaesthesia

A certified anaesthetist will be responsible for your well-being.

The procedure is usually performed under deep intravenous sedation with local anaesthetic. This ensures complete comfort without awareness during the procedure, rapid recovery and good post-operative analgesia.

Alternatively general anaesthesia may be used.

Inpatient/Outpatient

The operation is generally performed as a day case procedure at the Renaissance Surgical Clinic (i.e. you will go home the same day).

It is possible however to perform the procedure as an 'in-patient', admitted overnight at the Cape Town Medi-Clinic.