Breast Lift

A breast lift is different from a breast augmentation, but the two procedures can be combined. A breast augmentation can provide volume to the breasts and increase cup size. A breast lift does not increase the size of the breasts but rather repositions and lifts them.

Woman in a bikini with her hands behind her head, standing on the beach

As a woman begins to age, her breasts can begin to sag or droop. This can be caused by simple gravity, childbirth, weight loss, genetics, or just the natural aging process. A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that can help lift and reposition the breasts. This allows them to be higher on the chest and look more proportionate to the rest of your shape.

The Breast Lift Procedure

A mastopexy surgery takes one to three hours to perform but can vary by patient. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the extensiveness of the surgery. During the breast lift surgery, the nipples can be repositioned and excess skin removed. This can help create more proportional breasts to the rest of your figure. Some patients may also wish to add an implant during their surgery to add volume to the breasts.

About the Breast Lift Procedure

Incision Placement

There are several options for incision placement, which will be discussed with Dr. Espinoza at the time of your consultation. He can help recommend the best type of incision based on your needs and the degree of work required.

Keyhole (lollipop) incision:

These incisions are placed around the edge of the areola and from the areola to the breast crease. This method can help lift and reposition the nipple.

Inferior horizontal lift:

This incision is concealed beneath the breasts and can be used when a greater volume of sagging skin is present.

Inverted T (anchor) incision:

This incision is best for those requiring greater skin excision and reshaping. It will be made using three incisions. First, an incision is made from the base of the areola to the breast crease, then a second one is made along the breast crease, and finally one around the areola.

Why Do Breasts Begin to Sag?

A breast lift can rejuvenate your figure with a more youthful and uplifted breast profile. A woman’s breasts often change over time, losing their youthful shape and firmness. These changes and loss of skin elasticity can result from:

Pregnancy
Breastfeeding
Weight fluctuations
Aging
Gravity
Heredity

Breast Lift Recovery

Breast lift procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Patients will be able to return home to rest and recover at home following their surgery. The recovery timeline will vary, but most patients can expect their recovery to last two to four weeks. After the surgery, most patients only experience mild to moderate pain levels and often feel good after the first week of recovery. You will be prescribed medication by Dr. Espinoza to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process. Most patients will experience some swelling, bruising, or numbness in the area after their procedure. This is only temporary and should ease over time. Bandages and a surgical support bra will also be used to help the healing process. You can expect to return to work or school after a few days, although more strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?

You may be a candidate for breast lift surgery if:

You are physically healthy and maintain a stable weight
You do not smoke
Your breasts have a flatter, elongated shape or are pendulous
You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts sag or have lost shape and volume
When unsupported, your nipples fall below the breast crease
Your nipples and areolas point downward
You have stretched skin and enlarged areolas
One breast is lower than the other

Meet Dr. Espinoza

If you are unsatisfied with your breasts or noticing sagging, contact Dr. Espinoza. He offers breast lift surgery to patients in Manhattan and those traveling in from out of state. Dr. Espinoza is an experienced plastic surgeon who will work with you to understand your goals for the procedure and craft a personalized plan to help achieve them. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.