Case #1403
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
34-year-old female 6 months after mastopexy.
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Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- No nicotine for 6 weeks before through 6 weeks after surgery. The vascular impact directly affects skin healing.
- No overhead clothing for 3 weeks. Stock front-zip tops, supportive sports bras (post-clearance), and the drain pouches we provide.
- Day-of transport and an overnight companion (24 hours minimum) are required for discharge.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Short walks every couple of hours, no lifting over 5 lb, and full nights of rest. The worst of the swelling peaks around day 3.
- Week 2
Activity ramps up cautiously: longer walks, no lifting yet. Most patients return to desk work this week.
- Week 4
Light cardio and most desk-work activities cleared. Lifting limit increases to 15 lb. Scar massage typically starts now.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Shape is 80–90 percent of final. Scars are still pink and will continue to lighten through month 12.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Breast Lift (Mastopexy).
- Compression bra continuously for 6 weeks
- Sleep elevated on your back for the first 2 weeks
- No upper-body resistance training for 6 weeks
- Scar management protocol at 3 weeks (anchor or lollipop pattern)
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on the full incision pattern
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for scar healing
- SPF 50+ on incisions for 12 months
- Fractional laser along the vertical and inframammary scars after 3 months
- LED light therapy weekly for the first 8 weeks
- Lymphatic massage starting week 2
- Skincare
Sun avoidance and SPF protocol extended through month 12 to minimize scar hyperpigmentation.
Younger skin pigments scars more reliably under sun exposure.
