What is the definition of a “breast lift”?
Breast lifting is a procedure to lift the breast when it sags. This is a result of loss of elasticity of the skin and supporting ligaments. These supporting ligaments are called Cooper’s ligaments. They are anchored in a layer known called the deep fascia which lies over the pectoralis major muscle behind the breast. The ligaments branch through the breast tissue all the way to the dermis which envelopes the breast. Pregnancy, breast feeding, large breasts, weight loss, involutional changes with menopause and aging, cause stretching and loss of the youthful elasticity of Cooper’s ligaments. Sagging breasts can also be developmental and may be associated with features such as a tubular breast. Dr. Kirwan has published several scientific articles on his classification and techniques of breast lifting.