Breast Lift
As the skin loses its elasticity and other factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and the force of gravity take their toll, a woman’s breast can start to lose its shape, firmness, and can begin to sag. The breast lift, or mastopexy, operation is a procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple.

before the breast lift surgery
During your consultation, it is important that you fully understand the breast lift procedure and get all of your questions answered. Discuss with your doctor your expectations and desired outcome of the breast lift. The doctor should give you his or her opinion as to what would be best in terms of size and shape. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have, especially those regarding your expectations and concerns about the results.

Prior to the breast lift surgery, the physician should provide a list of guidelines in preparation for your surgery.

the breast lift surgery
The surgery itself can take anywhere from an hour and a half to three hours. Breast lift techniques may vary based on the amount of sagging in the breast, but the most common procedure involves an anchor-shaped incision following the natural contour of the breast. The surgeon will relocate the nipple and areola to a higher position, reposition the breast tissue to a higher level, remove any remaining excess skin from the breast and reshape all remaining skin. Closing of the remaining skin will help to reshape and lift the breast to the higher position.

Often, if a patient desires, breast augmentation accompanies the surgery to bring more shape back to the breasts. If you're having an implant inserted along with your breast lift, it will be placed in a pocket directly under the breast tissue, or deeper, under the muscle of the chest wall.

after the breast lift surgery
A key question often asked is, how quickly will I get back to normal? Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on care and timing to resume normal activities. In general, the healing process after breast lift surgery is a gradual process which depends on your individual progression after the surgery. If you have any discomfort or unusual sensations, feel free to call your doctor.

The breasts will typically be placed in a gauze dressing or placed in a surgical bra after surgery. Swelling and discoloration will occur around your incisions but will subside gradually. You may experience decreased sensation, which is usually temporary, in your nipples or breast skin. Remember, even the best breast lift can’t fight the effects of gravity over time. Discuss these expectations with your surgeon.

As with any surgery, a breast lift does carry some uncertainty but is normally safe as long as it is performed by a Board-Certified plastic surgeon. But as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. Make sure to discuss this with your physician. Remember, you can help to reduce any post-op complications by closely following your surgeon’s instructions.

The information presented on this site is intended to be used for informational use only, it is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. If you are planning on having a procedure performed or if there is anything you don't understand about your procedure, please consult one of our physicians.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our board certified plastic surgeons click here or call (800) 505-3627.