Breast lift surgery is done to remove the excess skin around the breast. The procedure also reshapes and raises the nipple to create a more perky and balanced appearance. To achieve natural-looking results, it’s essential to choose a board-certified breast lift surgeon with experience in this procedure. When performed properly, a breast lift can provide long-lasting results that align with your aesthetic goals.
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Overview of Breast Lift Surgery
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape the breasts. This procedure removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding breast tissue. After recovery is complete, you can expect firmer breasts with a lifted appearance, along with an improved breast contour. Women have many reasons for considering breast lift surgery, such as correcting sagging breasts related to aging, weight loss, or pregnancy. Breast lifts can also be done to correct downward pointing nipples or reduce the size of the areola. The breast lift procedure is not designed to change the size of the breast, but the procedure can be combined with other breast augmentation surgeries.
Breast Lift Procedure Details
The breast lift procedure involves removing excess skin and reshaping the underlying breast tissue to improve the position and firmness of the breasts. During breast lift surgery, the plastic surgeon may also reposition the nipple and areola complex to create a more youthful and balanced appearance.
Depending on the degree of breast ptosis (sagging), different types of breast lift incision methods may be used during the procedure. For instance, a lollipop incision may be used to address moderate sagging. In some cases, an anchor incision is chosen when more extensive reshaping is needed. These methods enable the surgeon to lift the breast mound and tighten the surrounding breast skin, resulting in a firmer, more lifted appearance. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. Patients are advised to wear a surgical bra as they recover to support the new breast contour.
A breast lift does not significantly change breast size or restore breast volume lost due to weight loss or aging. However, it can be paired with breast augmentation using saline or silicone implants. It can also be combined with a reduction procedure to address breast asymmetry, improve breast shape, or restore proportion to the body.
Discussing Complementary Procedures, Breast Augmentation, and Breast Lift Results at Your Breast Lift Consultation
At your initial breast lift consultation, your plastic surgeon will assess your breast tissue, skin quality, and overall goals to determine the best approach for your breast lift surgery. If restoring breast volume or improving your breast shape is a priority, you may discuss combining the breast lift procedure with breast augmentation using breast implants. Reducing breast size or removing excess breast skin may be a better option for other patients, particularly when weight gain, fluctuations, or physical discomfort cause sagging.
Your surgeon will also explain how the procedure can reposition downward pointing nipples, improve symmetry, and achieve natural-looking, long-lasting breast lift results.
What Happens at Your Breast Lift Consultation?
During your initial consultation for breast lift surgery, your plastic surgeon will evaluate your breast shape, skin quality, and degree of sagging to determine how to proceed. You’ll discuss your desired outcome, review your medical history, and review any medications or herbal supplements that may affect the healing process.
The surgeon will also assess skin elasticity, nipple position, and the location of your breast crease to create a plan for your upcoming procedure. You can also expect guidance on what to expect before and after the procedure. Your surgeon will discuss instructions for recovery, timelines, and the use of a soft support bra. If you’re considering additional cosmetic procedures such as breast implants or reduction, these options will also be discussed.
How to Select the Right Breast Lift Surgeon for Yourself
Choosing the right plastic surgeon for your breast lift surgery is one of the most important steps in breast surgery. Look for a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast lift procedures and a strong track record of natural-looking breasts.
It’s important to take your time and review the surgeon’s portfolio of before-and-after photos. This will help you assess their ability to reshape the breast, elevate the nipple position, and enhance the overall breast contour. A good surgeon will also take time to understand your goals, explain the available surgical techniques, and customize your plan to suit your body shape and degree of sagging. Pay attention to how thoroughly the surgeon answers your questions and addresses your concerns about scarring, breast sensation, and long-term changes.
Important Questions to Ask at Your Breast Lift Consultation
Asking the right questions during your breast lift consultation helps you understand the overall process. When you’re more informed about the procedure, you can make informed decisions and feel confident about your procedure. Start by asking how the breast lift surgery will address your concerns, such as pointed downward nipples, loss of firmness, or changes in nipple position. Ask your surgeon which incision techniques, such as vertical or horizontal incisions, are recommended for your case and what that means for potential scarring.
You should also ask your plastic surgeon how they will reshape your breast contour. Discuss whether any additional excess skin will be removed, and how your breast crease or breast fold might be affected. You can also ask about how weight fluctuations could impact you, including restrictions on heavy lifting and steps to support a smooth recovery.
Breast Implants vs Breast Reduction to Correct Breast Sagging
Some patients may benefit from adding breast implants to correct sagging in a breast lift, while others may require a breast reduction. Breast implants can restore lost volume, enhance upper fullness, and improve overall breast contour, especially for women who feel their breast shape appears deflated. In contrast, breast reduction is ideal for those experiencing sagging due to overly large, heavy breasts, helping to remove excess tissue and relieve discomfort.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a breast lift?
You may be a good candidate for a breast lift if you are in good health, have a stable weight, and want to correct sagging breasts, downward-facing nipples, loss of breast shape after pregnancy, weight loss, or the effects of aging.
Can I combine a breast lift with implants or a reduction?
Yes, a breast lift can be combined with breast implants to restore lost volume and fullness. It can also be paired with a breast reduction to reduce size and correct sagging, resulting in a more balanced breast contour.
How long is the recovery period after breast lift surgery?
You can expect firmer, more lifted breasts, improved nipple position, and a more youthful breast shape; however, results may vary depending on your skin quality and lifestyle.
Ready for Your Breast Lift Surgery Consultation?
Take the next step toward restoring your confidence and achieving your ideal breast shape. Schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Zahedi at Zahedi Plastic Surgery in Fort Lauderdale to discuss your goals and explore your options. Contact us today to get started.
