Breast Lift (Mastopexy) in Chicago, IL

Breast lift is not a procedure done in a cookie-cutter fashion. It is tailored each time to the anatomy of the patient and their wishes for size.

There are a number of variations in incision style depending on the amount of excess skin, whether an implant is going to be used and how significant is the stretching of the skin envelope.

Sometimes, an incision around the areola is all that is needed. Sometimes, a vertical incision from the areola done in a "lollipop design" is needed and rarely an "anchor" shaped incision similar to what is done in breast reduction will result.

Assessment of the patient involves:
1. Evaluation of the inframammary fold.
2. The distance between the nipple and the inframammary fold.
3. The distance between the clavicle and the nipple.
4. The amount of overall stretching, skin quality and whether the patient wishes augmentation or not.

Based on all of these factors, a recommended plan of treatment is formulated.

Frequently, a drain is placed to decrease the amount of bruising and swelling and it is removed at 24 or 48 hours. Nipple sensation is preserved and the breast reaches its final shape at about two months from the surgery.

Gynecomastia in Chicago, Illinois

Enlargement of the male breast is common in boys around the time of puberty. Breast enlargement regresses in most, but remains to a degree in 30% of males.

There are also some rare medical conditions and some common medications that are implicated in the development of gynecomastia. If the enlargement is significant, the patient is distressed. The breast enlargement is mainly fat and therefore liposuction can be successfully performed. However, when the fibrous component is significant, we resort to sharp excision. An incision around the areola is made to allow access to the involved tissue so it can be removed. If the areola is significantly enlarged, it can be reduced as well. With technical refinement over the last few years we have limited our incision to the area of the areola.

The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The sutures are self-dissolving and if any drains are required, they will be removed once drainage has ceased.