Breast Lift

Breast lifts at Brighter Day Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery offer a rejuvenating solution to the effects of natural aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or genetics, which can lead to breast ptosis (“sagging” breasts). Over time, skin may lose elasticity and breasts might appear less perky. By elevating the bustline to a higher position, a breast lift can produce a firmer, more youthful appearance.

Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Kevin Day, MD, customizes all breast lift treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs and goals. Breast lifts can enhance breast contours, reduce signs of breast ptosis, and ultimately create a more youthful breast projection.

What Is Breast Lift Surgery?

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic treatment designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts for a perkier and firmer appearance. This is achieved by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to support the new breast contour. Breast lift surgery is often pursued after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or the natural aging process have led to a loss of breast elasticity. Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift does not significantly change the size of the breasts, but it can be combined with implants or fat grafting for added volume and improved contour.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Lift Surgery?

Mastopexy can reverse many of the effects of time, gravity, changes after breastfeeding, and general aging. As we get older, our skin loses some strength and elasticity, and the connective tissues that resist tissue sagging begin to weaken. This can lead to breast tissue, including the nipple and areola, to hang below the level of the inframammary fold, where the bottom edge of the breast meets the chest wall. A breast lift can elevate the breasts to a more youthful and perky position with incisions and scars placed in an inconspicuous position. Breast lift surgery has high patient satisfaction, helping to boost confidence no matter what clothing one is wearing.

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?

Candidates for mastopexy should be in good general health with any chronic health conditions well-controlled on medication. Patients must be nicotine-free, including from vaping, nicotine gum, and/or patches. An ideal candidate should have only mild to moderate loss of skin elasticity and mild ptosis (drooping breasts). Patients with thinner tissue and severe ptosis may require underlying tissue reinforcement to help refine and maintain results. Dr. Day will provide a personalized plan for surgery based on your specific body and your goals.

What Does the Breast Lift Procedure Involve?

The breast lift procedure involves several key steps. After anesthesia is administered, Dr. Day will make one of several possible incision patterns, typically around the areola, extending downward, and along the breast crease. Through these incisions, excess skin is removed, and breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to achieve a more youthful contour. The nipples and areola may be repositioned to a higher, more natural-looking location. If necessary, the size of the areola can be reduced. The incisions are then closed with sutures, often resulting in an anchor-shaped scar that will fade over time. Usually performed as an outpatient procedure, a breast lift is typically completed in approximately two hours, depending on individual needs.

What Can I Expect in My Breast Lift Recovery?

Many patients experience initial swelling and some degree of discomfort during the recovery process, which prescribed or over-the-counter medication can help manage. A supportive bra will be needed postoperatively, and patients typically take at least a week to rest before returning to their normal, non-strenuous activities. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for about four to six weeks. Dr. Day will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help promote a safe and comfortable healing experience.

How Long Do Breast Lift Results Last?

Mastopexy can “roll back the clock” to a more youthful and lifted position, but aging, time, and gravity will still occur. You can expect your results to last 10 to 15 years, and sometimes longer, depending on your tissues and ability to maintain a healthy weight without significant fluctuations.

Will I Have Scars After Breast Lift Surgery?

Unfortunately, ptosis is the result of skin excess and stretching of tissues, so there is no way to lift the breast without removing some skin and this will result in surgical scars. However, the scars can be positioned in such a way as to be centered around the areola and on the lower half of the breast, and should be well-concealed in any clothing you might wear, including swimwear. Dr. Day will provide detailed scar care instructions for after surgery that can help the scars fade and become as inconspicuous as possible.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?

The cost of a breast lift can vary, ranging from $7,500 to $12,000. Contributing factors include:

Surgeon’s fees
Anesthesia fees
Post-operative garments
Prescribed medication
Whether the breast lift is included in a Mommy Makeover or performed in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery or other treatments

Patients will receive a customized quote once their individualized treatment plan is developed. Treatment plans are tailored to a patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals, and the overall cost will reflect that.

Contact our office for more information on mastopexy or other breast surgeries available from our practice, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Day.