If you have ever secretly wished you could pop in for a quick doctor’s visit and have perkier breasts when you leave without having to be put under general anesthesia, your wish is now granted—sort of. Many individuals avoid having the elective surgery they truly desire because they don’t want to be put under general anesthesia for the following reasons:
- Some women respond poorly to general anesthesia (nausea, headaches, etc.)
- The effects of anesthesia can worsen recovery
- Women with certain health conditions run a higher risk of complications with general anesthesia
Dr. Thomas Taylor is a highly esteemed, board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic breast surgeries and offers fully awake, in-office breast lifts with local anesthesia in Pasadena, California.
While you will still have to go through the recovery process, this approach can reduce many of the side effects and complications that accompany traditional surgery requiring general anesthesia.
Why Choose Dr. Taylor for an Awake Breast Lift in Pasadena?
Dr. Thomas Taylor is a highly esteemed, board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic breast surgeries in Pasadena, California, since 1997. He offers fully awake, in-office breast lifts with local anesthesia and the option of sedation.
He performs in-office breast lifts for good candidates, and his techniques provide excellent results. While you will still have to go through a recovery process, Dr. Taylor’s awake breast lifts reduce many of the side effects and complications that accompany traditional surgery with general anesthesia.
To schedule your consultation, call (626) 988-4287.
What Are the Benefits of an In-Office Or Awake Breast Lift?
An in-office or awake breast lift, also known as mastopexy, offers several benefits compared to traditional breast lift procedures that are performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or surgical center:
Avoidance of General Anesthesia
General anesthesia carries risks such as respiratory complications, nausea, and prolonged grogginess. An awake breast lift uses local anesthesia, which minimizes these risks and is generally safer for patients, especially those with certain health conditions.
In-office procedures typically cost less than hospital-based surgeries because they eliminate fees associated with operating room use and anesthesiologist services.
The procedure is considered safer for patients who may be at higher risk under general anesthesia, including older adults or those with certain medical conditions.
Patient Comfort and Communication
Being awake allows patients to speak with and respond to Dr. Taylor during the procedure, which can enhance comfort and reduce anxiety. Some patients feel more at ease and appreciate the ability to be part of the process.
Are You a Good Candidate for an In-Office Breast Lift?
Candidates for this surgery should be at or near their ideal weight. If you smoke, you will need to stop weeks before the procedure.
An in-office or awake breast lift (mastopexy) is appropriate for a large number of women who are experiencing some breast sagging. This is particularly common among women who have recently given birth or lost a significant amount of weight.
However, this procedure isn’t suitable for everyone, and an in-depth consultation is required to determine your candidacy.
How to Prepare for an In-Office Breast Lift in Pasadena, CA
You will prepare for this surgery just as you would for a major procedure like breast augmentation or reduction and avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like aspirin and NSAIDs), smoking, and alcohol. Because a local anesthetic is used, there is no need to go without eating or drinking, so fasting is not required.
It is imperative to follow the doctor’s instructions before and after surgery and prepare for your recovery, which will be similar to recovery from a traditional breast lift but without the added effects of general anesthesia.
How Does an In-Office or Skin-Only Breast Lift Work?
The local anesthetic is injected into the breast. This anesthetic also includes epinephrine to prevent bleeding. You will also be given a sedative to help you relax during the procedure and make the experience as pleasant as possible. Some patients say it is kind of like going to the dentist for a minor procedure.
Dr. Taylor lifts your breasts by removing excess skin under your nipple, tightening the lower part of the breast, reshaping the areola if desired, moving it higher on the breast, and closing the incisions.
If you already have breast implants, Dr. Taylor can typically use the old incision, which will fade over time.
This surgery usually takes about three hours, and the effects of the local anesthetic will continue to work for up to 10 hours to help you get home with any medications you will need for the following few days.
What Is Recovery Like After an In-Office Breast Lift?
Dressings should be removed two to three days after surgery, and you can shower daily. Do not get into a bathtub, pool, or hot tub for at least four weeks after your procedure to avoid infection.
The bruising starts to fade significantly after two weeks, and the swelling around the areola will subside completely in around six weeks. You should be able to resume your regular routine in two weeks or so, but refrain from any strenuous activities, including exercise, for four weeks.
How Much Does an In-Office Breast Lift Cost in Pasadena, CA?
The cost of your procedure will depend on many factors, but it will likely be significantly less expensive than a breast lift with general anesthesia.
Dr. Taylor conducts an in-depth consultation to assess the condition of your breasts, learn about your specific goals, and provide an accurate quote for your in-office and awake breast lift.
In-Office Breast Lift FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the recovery time for an awake breast lift?
The recovery time for an awake breast lift can vary depending on the individual, but generally, patients can expect to return to light activities within a few days to a week. Full recovery, where patients can resume all normal activities, including exercise, may take 4-6 weeks. It’s important to follow Dr. Taylor’s instructions on activity restrictions and care during this time.
How painful is an awake breast lift?
Local anesthesia is used to numb the breasts, so patients typically experience little to no discomfort during the surgery. Any pain following the procedure is usually mild to moderate and alleviated with over-the-counter pain medicine. Some patients report feeling tightness or soreness in the chest area for a few days after the surgery.
What are the risks of an awake or in-office breast lift?
While considered safe, an awake breast lift does carry some risks. As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites, and although rare, there is a possibility of bleeding during or after the surgery. Some scarring is inevitable, but their visibility can vary depending on individual healing abilities and surgical techniques.
How can I reduce swelling after an awake breast lift?
To reduce swelling after an awake breast lift, stay well-hydrated, maintain a healthy diet, and wear a compression bra or garment as instructed to control swelling and support your lifted breasts during healing. Applying cold compresses to the breast area for short intervals in the first 48 hours can also help reduce swelling, and keeping the upper body elevated while resting or sleeping can prevent excess fluid accumulation in the breast area. Above all, follow all post-operative care instructions.