Breast Lift

Breast lift (mastopexy) is a breast-enhancing procedure that may be performed alone or in combination with other cosmetic surgeries like breast augmentation.  By itself, breast lift does not involve the addition of saline or silicone gel implants.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Lift?

Any healthy woman (non-smoker) who is seeking to reduce sagging and improve shape and firmness of the breasts that may have changed as a result of weight loss or gain, pregnancy, nursing, the natural aging process, hereditary, or gravity.

What Happens During Breast Lift Surgery?

Administration of Anesthesia

Your surgeon will advise either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation after reviewing your medical history and current state of health.

The Incision

The three incision patterns that are used most often are as follows: (a) a circular pattern around the areola; (b) a circular pattern around the areola plus a line that runs from the bottom edge of the circle down to the crease in the breast; (c) the same pattern as described in (b) plus an additional horizontal incision along the crease of the breast.

The Breast(s) Are Reshaped

Following the incision(s), the surgeon manipulates the breast tissue to enhance the shape and firmness of one or both breasts. As part of this process, the areola and nipple are raised to a height that would be more consistent with a youthful look.  Depending on the surgeon’s discretion and the patient’s preferences as discussed in advance, extra skin around the areola may be removed to shrink the areola’s overall size.  All excess skin would be removed to recreate the compromised elasticity that comes with aging or changes after pregnancy.

(Optionally, Implants Are Added if Breast Augmentation is Part of the Surgery)

The Incisions Are Closed

The skin that remains will tighten when the incisions are closed, creating a much firmer breast.  The scarring from the incisions around the areola will likely blend in with the areola’s natural coloring; the other incisions will leave visible scarring that should subside (yet will always be present) over time.  The final step is sutures and adhesives or tape to seal the skin.

Recovery

The doctor will leave a thin tube under the skin for a short time after surgery to assist with fluid drainage.  Medications for pain or to prevent infection may be necessary.  Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with the surgeon before undergoing the surgery.

What Are the Risks of Getting a Breast Lift?

Because it is a type of surgery, a breast lift – like any other surgery – comes with the risk of infection, pain, reactions to anesthesia, pulmonary or cardiac problems, blood clots, bleeding, and scarring.  Risks specific to breast lift surgery include potentially damaging the nerves or ducts in the breast (which could interfere with breastfeeding),  changing the sensation of the nipple or breast, discoloration of the skin, fat necrosis, abnormalities in breast contour and shape, asymmetry between breasts, loss of all or part of the nipple/areola, and extreme firmness of the breast.  If you are unsatisfied with the results or if complications arise, you may need additional surgeries.

How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Breast Lift?

The 2010 average cost was about $4,400.