This procedure is designed to lift smaller breasts that possess less than severe ptosis, or sagging, through the removal of a doughnut-shaped piece of tissue around the areola. The Benelli Lift is less invasive than full mastopexy (breast lift) and is not intended for patients seeking more drastic enhancement, such as a breast augmentation with lift.
What is a Benelli Lift and how is it generally performed?
The Benelli lift was designed to lift smaller breasts in women with less obtrusive ptosis, better known as the loss of elasticity, through the removal of a doughnut-shaped piece of tissue around the areola.
Benelli mastopexy usually results in only a scar around the areola. In cases where the nipple must be moved a long distance, or when the skin has lost much of its elasticity, an additional vertical incision or crease incision will be made. Over time the scars fade and flatten, causing no aesthetic issues for the patient.
This surgery is considered to be less invasive than other forms of breast lift alteration. When the piece of tissue around the areola border is excised, the surrounding remaining tissue is carefully sutured to the areola. Those incisions are closed with purse string sutures and at times a little more tissue may be removed above the areola to allow for a lifting effect when it is sutured. This results in a flatter, rounder breast shape, with minimal scarring. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with sedation.
What is recovery like and what risks may be involved?
Patients are able to return to work within one week and have reported that it may take up to one year for the full effect to be seen.
With all breast alteration surgery, there is a small risk of decreased sensation, slow healing, and loss of nipple/areolar tissue. With aging and weight fluctuations, results over time may vary. It is important for each patient to have a thorough discussion with a cosmetic surgeon to gain a clear understanding of all risks involved.
It is recommended to take at least one week off from work or normal routine after having the Benelli Lift procedure. Common side effects include temporary bruising and swelling, numbness and breast discoloration. The patient should be able to return to her regular activities 1 week post surgery. However, strenuous physical activities should be avoided until 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure, to ensure that the wounds have already healed.
After the Benelli Lift surgery, patients need to wear the dressings and a light gauze bandage for several days. Patients can go home several hours after the surgery, and can take a shower the next day. The pain is usually minimal and can be controlled by medication, and the stitches can be removed on the 7th day.
Post Benelli Lift Living
Normal routines can be resumed in less than a month after getting a Benelli Lift. The result can give a beautiful and well-proportioned contour to the breasts, nipples and the areola. The effect will be noticeable after a few months to 1 year, and should last a lifetime. While surgical procedures and cosmetic treatments can claim long lasting effects, you have to maintain your new look to enjoy the maximum benefits of a Benelli Lift.
The most successful approach to retain the breasts' enhanced appearances is to maintain good health.
Doctors of post-operative patients advise them to follow a nutrition plan, regular exercise program and skincare management for a well-balanced lifestyle. Studies show that women recovering from breast lift surgery tend to gain more weight because of their inability to do strenuous activities in the weeks after the operation. Depression during recovery also tends to make women seek comfort from food. Awareness of this condition is the first step to help a patient overcome the post-operative trauma.
Living Healthy after Surgery
The only maintenance a patient needs to do after having a Benelli Lift is to stay healthy. It is important to jump back into normal physical routine once the healing is complete. Post-surgical patients should be aware of the need to incorporate exercise and healthy eating habits for the rest of their lives. There are multiple programs that can help in achieving a new lifestyle. It may take at least 6 months for patients to adjust to the new lifestyle and changes, but the effects can be enjoyed throughout their lifetime.
Sources:
http://www.plasticsurgery.com/benelli-lift/info.aspx
http://www.onlinesurgery.com/plasticsurgery/benelli-lift.asp
http://www.onlinesurgery.com/article/postbenelli-lift-lifestyle-maintenance.html
