Effect
A breast lift surgically raises sagging breasts—a condition called ptosis—resulting in a more youthful breast shape and a higher position for the areola and nipple. Implants are sometimes part of a breast lift because they assist in forming the breast’s new contours and firmness.

Process
A breast lift—Mastopexy—can be an outpatient surgery procedure, under local sedation or general anesthesia, lasting from ninety minutes to three hours. In the Minimal Scar Lift—Doughnut Mastopexy—the surgeon makes only circular incisions around the areola, removes excess tissue and inserts implants to help achieve lifted, fuller breasts. In a Partial Lift—Keyhole or Vertical or Lollipop Mastopexy—the plastic surgeon makes two incisions. There is a circular incision around the areola, with a second incision extending vertically from the areola to the base of the breast. No incision is made under the breast. Implants may, or may not, be part of a Partial Lift.  For the Full Lift—Anchor or Wise Mastopexy—the plastic surgeon makes incisions around the areola, vertically from the areola to the base, and along the fold of the breast. The lift gives the greatest amount of change, and may be completed with or without implants. When implants are used, the plastic surgeon will create a pocket for the implant either directly behind the breast tissue or under the pectoralis muscle, and then position the implant within this pocket. Read more about implants under Breast Enlargement.

After Surgery
Some temporary bruising, swelling and numbness of the breasts can be expected. Medication prescribed by the plastic surgeon will control discomfort, if needed. Expect to be up and about the day after surgery, but not back to work for a week or so. Consider arranging for a friend or family member to drive you home after surgery, to stay with you for the first 24 hours following surgery, and possibly a day or so longer. Risks for breast lifts include infection, skin loss, thickening of the scar, change or loss in nipple sensation or uneven positioning of the nipples. The risks, and what to do if symptoms appear, are discussed in detail before surgery.

Recheck
You will have a follow-up appointment approximately 3-6 days after surgery.

Recovery
Recovery instructions tailored to each woman’s surgery procedure and experience will be provided by the plastic surgeon. These instructions will be very detailed, including everything from the type of bra to be worn to when to return to work and how soon normal activities can be resumed. Avoid lifting anything over your head for three to four weeks. Recovery time is one to two weeks, with strenuous activity limited for one month or more. Fading of scarring occurs within several months to a year.

Often Asked
Q. How long will my “new look” last?
A. The results of a breast lift are apparent for years. This may be affected by conditions that include effects of aging, pregnancy and weight changes. Results may be prolonged by the placement of implants during the procedures.

Q. Is there a non-surgical way to accomplish the look I’d have after a breast lift?
A. Generally, surgery is the only lasting way to more youthfully shaped contours to the breasts. Neither exercise nor breast firming creams have ever been known to create similar results.

Q. Is breastfeeding affected by a breast lift?
A. Information published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that Mastopexy usually does not interfere with breast-feeding, adding there are no special risks to future pregnancies. However, stretching of the breasts is likely during pregnancy and could offset the results of the breast lift procedure.

Which Lift Method
for Me?
In the initial consultation with your plastic surgeon, he will discuss the approaches that best suit your desired result and your anatomy. You can ask about similar cases, see before/after photos and talk about whether to add implants. When you are comfortable with your decision, surgery can be scheduled.