Overview
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to reshape and elevate your breasts by removing excess skin and reshaping breast tissue.
If your breasts sag or your nipples point downward, a breast lift can enhance your breast shape and boost your self-image.
A breast lift does not significantly change the size of your breasts, though it can be combined with breast augmentation or reduction.
Why it’s done
As you age, factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and gravity can cause your breasts to lose elasticity and firmness. A breast lift can address these issues by:
- Reducing sagging and raising the position of the nipples and areolae.
- Reshaping breast tissue to restore a more youthful contour.
- Decreasing the size of enlarged areolae to better match the new breast shape.
Consider a breast lift if:
- Your breasts have lost volume and shape, appearing flatter and longer.
- Your nipples fall below the breast creases when unsupported.
- Your nipples and areolae point downward.
- Your areolae have stretched out of proportion to your breasts.
- One breast sits lower than the other.
However, if you plan future pregnancies, it might be wise to delay a breast lift, as pregnancy can affect the results. Breastfeeding is generally possible post-lift, but milk production may be reduced.
Risks
A breast lift carries potential risks, including:
- Scarring, which will fade but remain permanent. Most scars can be concealed by bras and swimsuits.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which usually improve but may be permanent.
- Irregularities or asymmetry in breast shape or size, which can occur during healing.
- Partial or total loss of nipples or areolae due to blood supply issues during surgery.
- Difficulty breastfeeding, though many women can still breastfeed after a breast lift.
Like any surgery, a breast lift poses risks of bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Allergic reactions to surgical materials are also possible.
How you prepare
Before a breast lift, you’ll meet with a plastic surgeon who will:
- Review your medical history, including past surgeries and family history of breast cancer.
- Conduct a physical exam to assess breast shape, nipple position, and skin quality.
- Discuss your expectations and goals, ensuring you understand potential outcomes and risks.
Additional preparations may include:
- Undergoing a baseline mammogram before surgery, with follow-up tests recommended post-procedure.
- Quitting smoking to optimize healing.
- Avoiding medications like aspirin and herbal supplements that increase bleeding risk.
- Arranging for post-surgery support at home, including help with daily activities.
What to expect
A breast lift is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient facility under either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
During the procedure
Your surgeon will use various techniques to remove excess skin and reshape breast tissue. Incisions are commonly made:
- Around the areolae.
- Extending downward from the areolae to the breast creases.
- Horizontally along the breast creases.
Deep stitches will reshape breast tissue and adjust areola size if necessary. Excess skin is removed, and nipples are repositioned higher. The incisions are then closed with stitches, surgical tape, or skin adhesives.
The procedure takes about two to three hours, and you can usually return home the same day.
After the procedure
Expect swelling and bruising for approximately two weeks, with discomfort around the incisions. Nipple, areola, and breast skin numbness may last up to six weeks.
Manage pain with prescribed medications and avoid strenuous activities. Sleep on your back or side to minimize breast pressure.
Follow-up appointments will involve removing drainage tubes and monitoring healing progress. Stitches may dissolve on their own or require removal in the office.
Continue wearing a surgical support bra initially and switch to a softer bra as advised. Use silicone tape or gel on incisions to aid healing and protect scars from sun exposure.
Results
You’ll notice immediate improvements in breast shape, though final results develop as swelling subsides over several months.
While scars are permanent, they typically fade and become less noticeable within one to two years. Most scars can be concealed under clothing.
A breast lift doesn’t prevent natural aging or changes due to weight fluctuations. Maintaining a stable weight can help preserve your results.
Ultimately, a breast lift can enhance breast appearance and self-confidence, though individual outcomes vary.