A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Over time, factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and aging can cause breasts to lose elasticity, leading to drooping. A breast lift addresses this by removing excess skin, tightening surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex for a more youthful contour.
Unlike breast augmentation (which focuses on increasing size with implants), a breast lift primarily enhances shape and firmness. Many women choose this procedure to restore confidence in their appearance, especially after significant body changes. The results are long-lasting, provided patients maintain a stable weight and follow post-op care guidelines.
If you're considering a breast lift, it’s essential to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, assess candidacy, and understand the best surgical approach for your body type.
Ideal candidates for a breast lift are women who experience breast sagging (ptosis) but are otherwise in good health. Common signs that you may benefit from mastopexy include:
Good candidates should:
A consultation with a plastic surgeon will include a physical exam, medical history review, and discussion of desired outcomes to determine if mastopexy is right for you.
Surgeons use various breast lift techniques depending on the degree of sagging and patient anatomy. The most common methods include:
Your surgeon will recommend the best technique based on your breast size, skin quality, and desired lift. Some patients combine mastopexy with implants for added volume or fat grafting for subtle enhancement.
While both procedures enhance breast appearance, they serve different purposes:
| Factor | Breast Lift | Breast Augmentation |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Reshape and raise sagging breasts | Increase breast size with implants/fat |
| Incision | Around areola, vertical/horizontal cuts | Under breast, armpit, or areola |
| Recovery | 2–4 weeks (longer for anchor lift) | 1–2 weeks |
Some women opt for a combined procedure (lift + implants) to address sagging and volume loss simultaneously.
Here’s what to expect during a typical mastopexy:
The surgery takes 2–3 hours, and patients go home the same day with a surgical bra. Swelling and bruising are normal but subside within weeks.
Proper aftercare ensures optimal healing:
Most patients return to work in 1–2 weeks, but full recovery takes 6 weeks. Attend follow-ups to monitor progress.
While rare, risks include:
Choosing an experienced surgeon minimizes these risks.
Results are visible immediately but settle over 3–6 months. With a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, outcomes can last 10+ years. Aging and gravity may cause gradual sagging over time.
Q: Will a breast lift leave visible scars?
A: Yes, but scars fade significantly over 1–2 years and are strategically placed to be less noticeable.
Q: Can I breastfeed after a mastopexy?
A: Many women can, but some techniques may affect milk ducts. Discuss this with your surgeon.
Q: How much does a breast lift cost?
A: Costs vary ($4,000–$10,000) based on technique, surgeon expertise, and location.