Breast Lift Procedure
Overview
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a cosmetic breast procedure performed by a plastic surgeon. The surgeon removes extra skin and reshapes the breast tissue to lift and support the breasts. People usually consider a breast lift if their breasts sag or if their nipples point downward.
Key Facts:
- Procedure: Extra skin is removed, and breast tissue is tightened.
- Purpose: Lifts and reshapes sagging breasts.
- Performed by: Board-certified plastic surgeons.
A breast lift does not change breast size, though it may be combined with augmentation or reduction for additional changes.
Why It’s Done
People usually consider a breast lift when their breasts begin to sag or lose shape and firmness over time. Aging, weight changes, pregnancy, genetics, and gravity are common causes. As people age, skin naturally loses elasticity, making the breasts appear flatter or longer.
Similarly, during pregnancy or weight fluctuations, the skin and supporting tissues can stretch, which often leads to sagging—a condition known as ptosis. Some individuals seek a breast lift for stretched areolae or when one breast sits lower than the other.
In general, smaller breasts tend to maintain lift longer, while larger breasts may sag again sooner due to their weight. Those planning to become pregnant or breastfeed may choose to wait, since future changes can affect the surgical outcome or impact breastfeeding.
| Cause | Effect on Breasts |
|---|---|
| Aging | Reduced firmness and skin elasticity |
| Pregnancy | Stretched ligaments, sagging |
| Weight Fluctuations | Stretched skin, loss of elasticity |
| Genetics | Natural tendency for sagging |
| Gravity | Gradual stretching over time |
Possible Issues
A breast lift carries risks patients should be aware of. Scarring is common, though scars often fade over 1–2 years. Some may notice thick or wide scars. Most incision lines are easily covered by bras or swimwear.
Changes in sensation around the nipples or breasts are usually temporary, but permanent loss is possible. Loss of sensation that affects pleasure is rare. Uneven breast shape or size may persist, especially if differences existed before surgery.
In rare cases, loss of the nipple or areola may occur due to disrupted blood flow. Breastfeeding is usually still possible, though some may have a reduced milk supply. Other risks include infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions to surgical materials. Anesthesia side effects, while uncommon, can also happen.
| Possible Risk | Details |
|---|---|
| Scarring | May fade over time; may be thick/wide |
| Nipple/areola sensation | Usually temporary; sometimes permanent |
| Uneven breast shape/size | May persist, especially if present before |
| Loss of nipple/areola | Rare; due to blood flow problems |
| Breastfeeding problems | Usually still possible; sometimes milk is low |
| Infection or bleeding | As with any surgery |
| Allergic reaction | Possible from surgical tape or other materials |
How You Prepare
Before surgery, patients meet with a plastic surgeon to review medical history and surgery goals. Bring details about health conditions, medications, prior surgeries, and any breast exams or biopsies.
The surgeon performs a physical exam, checking nipple position, skin condition, and taking photos for medical records. Good skin tone often leads to better outcomes. Patients should describe their desired results and discuss risks like scarring or sensation changes.
Safe preparation includes stopping certain medications. Doctors typically advise avoiding aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements that increase bleeding risk. Smoking cessation is also critical, as smoking slows healing. Patients needing help to quit should speak with their doctor.
Preparation Tips
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay overnight.
- Get help with tasks like bathing or dressing.
- Eat well and maintain a steady, healthy weight.
- If overweight, losing a few pounds may improve long-term results.
- Stay physically active as advised by your doctor.
Doctors usually recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery. Another mammogram may be done several months later for comparison.
Table: Main Steps for Preparation
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Medical review | Share health history and current medications. |
| Physical exam | Physical check and photos. |
| Set goals | Discuss expected results and possible side effects. |
| Stop certain drugs | Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatories, and herbals. |
| Quit smoking | Stop before surgery for better healing. |
| Arrange home help | Plan for support during recovery. |
| Healthy habits | Eat well, stay active, keep a steady weight. |
| Mammograms | Get tests before and after surgery. |
What You Can Expect
While the Surgery is Happening
Breast lift surgery usually takes place at a hospital or an outpatient surgery center. Depending on the plan, the patient may receive either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
With general anesthesia, the patient will be fully asleep during the operation. The plastic surgeon selects a surgical method based on each patient’s needs. The surgeon may make incisions in several possible locations:
- Circling the areola (the darker skin around the nipple).
- Downward from the areola toward the crease of the breast.
- Along the natural breast crease in a horizontal line.
The surgeon then removes excess skin and shifts the nipple and areola to a higher, more natural position. If the areola needs to be made smaller, the surgeon does this during the same procedure.
The surgeon places deep stitches inside the breast to provide support and reshape the tissue. The skin is closed using sutures, medical adhesive, or surgical tape. Most breast lift procedures last about two to three hours. In most cases, patients can return home that same day.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | Local with sedation or general anesthesia; patient is comfortable and pain-free. |
| Incision Sites | Around the areola, vertically down to breast crease, possibly along the breast fold. |
| Tissue Change | Nipple and areola are moved up, excess skin taken away, deep stitches reshape the breast. |
| Closure | Stitches, skin glue, or tape used to close the skin. |
After the Surgery is Complete
After the surgeon finishes the procedure, the team wraps the chest in gauze and puts on a special support bra to help reduce swelling. In some cases, the surgeon places thin tubes at the incision spots to drain extra blood or fluid for the first few days. These drains are usually removed before the end of the first week.
Swelling and bruising of the breasts are common in the first two weeks. It is also normal to have pain or discomfort near the cuts. The incisions may look red or pink for several months. Numbness around the nipple, areola, or breast skin may last up to six weeks. Here are some things to expect right after the breast lift procedure:
- Pain Relief: The doctor will recommend pain medicine to help with any soreness.
- Activity Limits: For the first few days, avoid heavy lifting, bending, or straining. It is also best to sleep on the back or side.
- Incision Care: Surgical tape or silicone gel may be used on the incisions to support healing.
- Support Garments: Wear the surgical support bra for three to four days, then use a soft support bra for the next three to four weeks.
Doctors often tell patients to avoid sexual activity for at least one to two weeks and to ask before starting regular daily tasks like showering or washing hair. Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others are removed by the doctor in one to two weeks.
Tip: Protect healing skin by keeping breasts out of direct sunlight and always shield the incisions when outside.
What to Expect After Surgery
Most people see changes in how their breasts look right after surgery. Over the next few months, the breasts gradually settle into their new shape and position. Scars appear and look red or raised at first, but they usually become softer and thinner within one to two years. Many find that these scars are easy to cover with regular clothing or swimwear.
Some people notice a smaller bra size after surgery, even if they have not had breast reduction or implants. This happens because the breasts often become more firm and rounded. For anyone undergoing a breast lift, fat transfer, or breast augmentation, these changes can improve confidence.
| Factor | Change Noticed |
|---|---|
| Shape & Position | Higher, firmer, rounder |
| Bra Size | Sometimes smaller |
| Scars | Fade over time |
| Longevity | May decrease with age |
Aging and changes in weight can still affect results, especially for those with larger or heavier breasts. Maintaining a steady, healthy weight helps preserve outcomes from these procedures.
