A breast lift, also called mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises breasts. The procedure, performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, lifts the breasts by removing excess skin, tightening the tissue and moving the nipples up. 

Why might I get a breast lift?

The procedure may also be desirable simply for aesthetic purposes. A breast lift is an option if your breasts sag due to pregnancy, weight changes or the effects of gravity. A breast lift can rejuvenate your self-image and self-confidence.

Breast lift procedures are often outpatient, and can be done the same day as a breast reduction or breast implants.

Medical reasons to pursue a breast lift include:

• Breast ptosis (sagging): This happens when most of the breast tissue is below the crease under the breast and can be painful.
• Skin infections and rashes: Large breasts can cause friction and moisture, leading to skin problems like soreness, rashes and damage.
• Extra skin after major weight loss: A breast lift can help reshape breasts after losing a lot of weight.

A breast lift alone will not change the size of your breasts. If you desire a change in breast size, talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon about your options.

Breast Lift Risks

As with any major surgery, a breast lift procedure poses various risks, including scarring, sensation changes, and uneven shape and size of the breasts. While the breasts heal, their shape and size may change. Sensation tends to return within several weeks, although some loss of feeling may be permanent. 

Other surgical risks include:

• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Fluid accumulation
• Unevenness or asymmetry

You might consider delaying getting a breast lift if you are breastfeeding or considering getting pregnant.

Breast lift results will last for many years. Still, pregnancy and weight changes may impact your results over time. Additionally, aging and the effects of gravity will have an impact too. 

What happens during a breast lift?

Preparing for Surgery

You may be advised to schedule a baseline mammogram before and a few months after the procedure. This is so that any changes in breast tissue can be seen and documented. Your medical team may also encourage you to stop smoking and avoid certain medications.

Surgical Procedure

You and your plastic surgeon will decide the technique and incision placement choices that are right for you. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision, lift and reshape the breast tissue, and move the nipple and skin around the nipple (areola) to a natural spot. 

If needed, larger areolas are reduced in size by removing surrounding skin. Excess breast skin is also removed. Then, the remaining skin is tightened, and the incisions are closed. Surgery incisions are often placed in areas that will make the scarring easy to cover. 

Types of Surgery

• “Crescent” Lift
• Peri-Areolar or “Donut” Lift
• Vertical or “Lollipop” Lift
• Inverted T or “Anchor” Lift

Recovery After Breast Lift

The results will be apparent immediately after surgery, however, the shape of your breasts will continue to change and settle over the next few months. Nipple sensation can change and will likely return to normal after nerves heal and regenerate. Scarring is permanent but will fade with time. Scars from a breast lift can usually be hidden with clothing.

Your breast lift will most likely be an outpatient procedure. For best results, arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you at the beginning of recovery. After a breast lift, your breasts will likely be covered with bandages and a surgical support bra. Drain tubes may be placed at the incision areas to drain any excess blood or fluid. These will help minimize swelling and support your breasts as they heal.

You might need someone to help you with daily activities during your initial recovery, such as washing your hair. Be gentle with yourself and your surgical area as you begin healing. Your medical team will give you personalized instructions on how to best take care of yourself. This may include:

• Taking pain medication
• Avoiding strenuous movement, including straining, bending and lifting
• Sleeping on your back
• Keeping your breasts out of the sun

Your surgeon will also advise you on when you can return to certain activities such as bathing and sexual activity. You may need to get your stitches removed if they do not dissolve on their own.

Breast lift patients often notice that their self-confidence increases soon after the procedure is complete, and continues to improve as they heal.