Is There a Most Difficult Plastic Surgery Procedure?

Though it’s difficult to single out a gold medal winner of “most difficult plastic surgery procedure,” breast augmentation with a mastopexy is definitely a front-runner.

Also known as a breast lift with implants, this dual procedure is essentially the increasing or restoring of breast size and shape with implants (augmentation) combined with a breast lift (mastopexy).

And it’s an involved process.

What Does a Breast Augmentation With a Mastopexy Entail?

We won’t get too deep into the details on this one.

In the simplest of terms, the procedure starts with incisions that are made according to a specific treatment plan. The plastic surgeon then creates a pocket where a saline or silicone implant will be placed either underneath or on top of the pectoral muscle.

The nipple and areola are placed higher on the breast and, if needed, are resized. The surgeon will then reshape the breast tissue to the desired contour and remove any excess skin to create a firmer and more defined appearance.

Once the procedure is complete, incisions are carefully closed with sutures. Sounds pretty straightforward, right?

So Then What Makes it Such a Difficult Plastic Surgery Procedure?

Multiple procedures that set out to achieve two different outcomes are always going to be more complex.

Breast augmentation with a mastopexy is considered one of the more difficult procedures because the surgeon is required to add volume and downward force from the implant, while simultaneously removing skin and elevating the breast upward. This creates multiple competing factors which make the surgery challenging.

Furthermore, maintaining anatomical blood supply to the areola, nipple, and skin during the procedure is critical in avoiding nipple necrosis, skin necrosis, large wounds, implant exposure, or other complications.

This is why it’s essential that only board-certified plastic surgeons with many cases and years of experience perform such a difficult procedure. In some cases, surgeons may opt to do the two surgeries separately – depending on the patient’s needs that are established in the consultation.

What Can You Expect During the Consultation?

To ensure that you’re getting premium medical care for this involved procedure, any skilled plastic surgery worth his or her salt with ask you to fill out a complete medical history.

They will need to know about past and present medical conditions, previous surgeries or treatments, medications and supplements you take, family history of breast cancer, use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, allergies, and pregnancies. Patients over 40 may also need to provide mammogram results within the past year.

Once you’ve provided your medical history, your board-certified plastic surgeon will sit down with you to discuss your needs and goals – as well as any concerns you might have. Based on all of this information, he or she will be completely frank about your ability to achieve the outcome you desire and assess whether you’re a viable candidate for breast augmentation with mastopexy.

If you find a surgeon unwilling to cover all of these bases, your best bet is to avoid this involved procedure. Because sadly, breast augmentation with a mastopexy is also one of the most highly litigated procedures. So stick with experience.

It definitely matters.

Could You Benefit From a Breast Augmentation with a Mastopexy?

Although considered a difficult plastic surgery procedure, a breast lift with implants has been a godsend for many women.

So if you’re frustrated by breasts that have lost volume and firmness, are different in size or shape, or you have nipples pointing downwards or below the breast crease, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons are highly experienced in performing this procedure and will take the necessary time to assess your situation and offer realistic expectations. Then given that strong foundation, you can decide next steps.