Many women find that after having children, breastfeeding or losing a significant amount of weight, their breasts have begun to develop laxity and lose volume. This is known as ptosis (pronounced toe-sis). This condition is very common and completely natural. For women who desire a more elevated appearance without losing breast size and without using breast implants, an auto-augmentation (auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy) can be an option. In the evolving landscape of cosmetic surgery, innovative techniques continually emerge to provide patients with more surgical options.
So what is auto-augmentation mammoplasty mastopexy? How does it work? Why is it becoming an increasingly popular choice?
Understanding Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy: Alternative to Implants
Often, patients have enough breast volume but desire the tissue in a different location. Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy utilises the patient’s existing breast tissues and redistributes it to reshape the breast. For patients, this usually involves increasing the upper pole volume and retaining the patient’s current breast size without the need for breast implants. It may be combined with autologous fat grafting (Injecting the patient’s own fat) into the breasts if a small amount of additional volume is desired, particularly in the upper pole.
The Procedure
Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy involves a careful reshaping and repositioning of the existing breast tissue to increase volume and projection. The procedure starts with a T or anchor shaped incision in the lower part of the breast (Wise pattern skin excision). The surgeon then sculpts and repositions the patient’s natural breast tissue according to the desired shape and fullness. Unlike traditional augmentation mammoplasty with implants, auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy aims to achieve a softer feel and movement of the breasts. This can be preferable for some patients.
Candidates for Auto-augmentation Mammoplasty and Mastopexy
Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its suitability depends on various factors. Candidates for this procedure are those who have sufficient existing breast tissue but desire additional elevation and reshaping. Women looking for a change to their breasts without the use of implants may find auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy combined with autologous fat grafting to be a suitable option. Individuals seeking correction for mild ptosis or asymmetry can benefit from the reshaping capabilities of auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy. Consulting with a qualified specialist Plastic Surgeon is essential to determine whether the procedure aligns with a patient’s goals and anatomy.
Auto augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy may be suitable if:
- You have loss of volume in the upper breast pole with nipples that are low, downturned or pointing sideways and
- You have sufficient overall breast volume but have excess volume in the lower poles and
- You have no desire to go down in cup size where breast reduction mammoplasty is a better alternative.
If you desire more breast volume, then either breast implants will be required (sometimes as a second procedure after auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy) or for more subtle results, autologous fat grafting can be combined with auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy in a single procedure.
Advantages and Risks of Auto-augmentation Mammoplasty and Mastopexy
Possible advantages of the procedure:
- Utilises the patient’s own breast tissue
- Eliminates certain risks associated with the use of implants
- Using the patient’s own tissue means the procedure doesn’t require the eventual removal or replacement of implants
There are risks, however, and every patient should appropriately consider these before getting their surgery. The risk of unwanted results or poor healing is present, as well as risks such as infection, poor scarring, reactions to anaesthesia, asymmetry, and other healing issues.
The Surgical Process
Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy is a surgical procedure that requires a surgeon with advanced skills and a comprehensive understanding of breast anatomy. The process typically involves the following key steps:
- Incision: Carefully planned incisions are made in specific locations.
- Tissue Reshaping: The existing breast tissue is sculpted and repositioned.
- Closure: Once reshaping is complete, the incisions are meticulously closed.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
The initial recovery period following this surgery is a critical phase that requires patients to follow the postoperative care instructions provided by the surgeon and his team along with getting plenty of rest. Patients can expect some early swelling and discomfort. These symptoms gradually subside but it may take six to twelve months to see the full effects of the surgery. It is essential to attend after-care appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns promptly.
Consultation: The First Step Towards Surgery
Embarking on the journey of auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy begins with a thorough consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. During this meeting, the surgeon evaluates several factors, including the degree of ptosis, the patient’s anatomy, their goals and expectations and their suitability for an auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy.
Conclusion: Reshaping Breasts
Auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy offers an alternative to traditional breast augmentation mammoplasty with implants. As technology and techniques advance, individuals seeking breast enhancement have more options available.
If you are considering auto-augmentation mammoplasty and mastopexy or any other cosmetic procedure, consult with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon to explore the possibilities available. Learn more about this breast lift (mastopexy) technique.
