Breast Lift

(Mastopexy)

Mastopexy surgery, also known as breast lift surgery, is designed to reverse changes in the breast normally associated with childbearing, weight fluctuations or aging. Breast lift surgery is most often performed to restore breasts that are sagging or drooping. During a breast lift procedure, loose skin is removed to create a more youthful look. In some cases, a breast implant is used to help restore lost fullness. After the procedure, the breasts sit higher on the chest, are more firm and full and have a centrally located nipple.

Breast lift surgery is performed under a general anesthesia and takes about 2-3 hours. The length and location of the incisions depends on each patient’s needs. Incisions are located around the nipple-areolar complex and may include a vertical line from the nipple to the crease and along the crease under the breast itself. The breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a pre-sagging height. If desired, enlarged areolas may be reduced by excising skin at the perimeter.

After the breasts are reshaped and excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is tightened as the incisions are closed. Minor incision lines from breast lift surgery are concealed in the natural breast contours; however, others are visible on the breast surface. Incisional scars are permanent, but in most cases will fade and significantly improve over time. When surgery is complete, bruising and swelling will resolve over 3-4 weeks and breast shape and contour will improve over 3 months. Post-surgery scars will take a full year to blend and fade. Breast lift patients should plan on taking one to two weeks off from work to recover and avoid any strenuous lifting or exercise for about four weeks after surgery.

Breast Lift Incision -> Post Surgery Scar

Around the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease.

Around the areola and vertically down from the breast crease and horizontally along the crease.

Around the areola.

BREAST LIFT QUICK FACTS

• Surgery time: 2 - 3 hours
• Minimum recovery time: 3 - 4 weeks, but 4 weeks before lifting or exercising again
• Type of procedure: Cosmetic, Body Contouring
• Insurance coverage: Not typically covered

Dr. Valerie Lemaine provide breast lift consultations and look forward to meeting with you. For additional breast lift information, or to learn more about the risks, benefits, costs and other details about plastic surgery, please contact us to schedule an appointment.