Breast Lift Surgery

Breast Lift or mastopexy is a procedure that elevates and reshapes the breast into a more youthful appearance.  Many patients seeking breast lift surgery have developed ptosis (sagging) of breast tissue as the result of pregnancy, nursing, aging, or significant weight loss.  However, some patients develop ptosis (sagging) when they are younger during their breast development.  In all of these cases, a breast lift may provide significant improvement to the shape and position of the breasts.

A breast lift may be performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation.  During breast augmentation, breast implants are placed to add volume to the breasts.  Breast augmentation does not lift the breasts, however breast augmentation can help fill in excess and loose skin for some patients seeking a breast lift.  Patients with smaller breasts with excess skin are the best candidates for breast augmentation and breast lift performed at the same time.

Breast Lift Consultation:

The breast lift consultation involves a thorough history and physical exam.  Information about the patient’s cup size, desired cup size, history of pregnancy, history of breast cancer will be gathered.  Other important and relevant questions will be asked in order to understand the patient’s desires and goals.  The exam will involve numerous measurements to assess the shape, size, and position of the breast compared to the body and the other breast.  Asymmetries and the amount of ptosis will be documented.  These measurements are critical in determining the surgical plan.

After the exam, Dr. Bray, Jr. will make recommendations regarding breast lift.  Depending on your anatomy, he may recommend a lift with or without an implant.  The type of incision used to perform the lift will also be discussed.  Your anatomy will influence the type of incision which will provide the best result.  Patients who have more ptosis and sagging skin will likely require a longer incision, while patients with less ptosis may achieve their goals with a smaller incision.

Breast Lift Procedure:

The breast lift procedure involves removal of excess skin and shaping of the breast tissue.  The procedure is usually performed in an accredited outpatient surgical facility in the South Bay of Los Angeles.  The incision may be placed around the areola only or around the areola and extending vertically toward the fold under the breast.  Occasionally the incision may be placed in the fold underneath the breast. The incision selected will be based on your anatomy and the amount of ptosis present.

After skin incision, the breast tissue will be shaped. The breast tissue will be placed in a more elevated position. For women with larger breasts the breast shaping may involve removal of a small amount of breast tissue. This small resection may result in a longer lasting result after breast lift in patients with larger breasts.  Patients who wish to increase the volume of their breasts will have an implant placed at this time.  The implant will reduce the amount of excess skin which must be removed.

Dr. Bray, Jr. will perform careful and meticulous closure of your incisions in order to optimize healing. A breast dressing will be placed, and you will be able to go home the same day.

After the Breast Lift Procedure:

Dr. Bray, Jr. will see you in the office on the following day.  He will remove all dressing and change you into a comfortable sports bra.  You will follow-up again one week after surgery.  At this time the breasts will be evaluated for healing. The sutures(stitches) that Dr. Bray, Jr. places will dissolve and are all placed underneath the skin. He will not need to remove these sutures. You will then return one month, three months, six months, and one year after surgery.

Images of breast lift results are available in the image gallery and may not be appropriate for minors or the workplace.

Benefits of Breast Lift

In many cases a breast lift will elevate the position of the nipple and tighten and lift the lower pole of the breast.

Complementary Procedures

When patients consult with Dr. Bray, they may have an idea of the results they want without knowing specifically which procedures can help them achieve the desired look. Sometimes, patients benefit from more than one procedure at a time. For example, by combining breast lift surgery with a tummy tuck, you can improve the shape and position of your breasts and achieve a flatter abdomen for a fully rejuvenated appearance.

FAQ

Will a breast lift make my breasts smaller?

In many cases, a breast lift will result in smaller breasts. The breast lift procedure involves the removal of excess skin and in many cases breast tissue in order to reshape and lift the breast. In an effort to maintain breast volume, the amount of tissue removed may be limited. In addition, if you would like a more elevated breast appearance but are also interested in enhancing your breast size, a breast augmentation with a breast lift may be right for you. On the other hand, if you are uncomfortable with a larger breast appearance and wish to restore a smaller size, a breast lift with reduction can help meet your needs. Dr. Bray can guide you in determining the best procedure or combination of procedures to address all of your cosmetic concerns.

What should I expect during breast lift recovery?

You will receive aftercare instructions from the Beach Cities Plastic Surgery team. Your strict adherence to these instructions will help you experience a smooth and quick recovery while helping you avoid complications. After your surgery, you can expect to have some swelling and discomfort or tightness at the treatment site. These effects will improve over time. During this time, you should avoid straining and lifting. Dr. Bray will let you know when you can resume your regular activities.

What results can I expect?

You may notice a lifted appearance of your breasts immediately, but you will be able to observe your true results after the swelling has fully dissipated.

How long will my results last?

As you continue to age, the skin naturally loses elasticity. Because of this and gravity, sagging may occur with time; this is particularly true if your breasts are large. Maintaining a stable weight may be beneficial.

What is the cost of breast lift surgery?

Breast lift surgery at Beach Cities Plastic Surgery is a personalized procedure. The total cost of surgery may include factors such as the extent of correction required, pre- and post-operative appointments, and surgical materials. For an accurate quote, contact our office today.