Breast Lift Surgery

Factors That Should Be Present When a Breast Lift:

As with any cosmetic surgery, each breast lift procedure is tailored to the needs of the patient. The degree of lifting required to restore breasts to their most aesthetically attractive position can vary quite a bit from patient to patient.  Many factors come into play, including existing tissue, skin elasticity and the amount of breast tissue remaining. Also, the size and position of the areolas can be a significant factor.  For patients minimal sagging, a small removal in skin will provide the desired results. In other cases, more significant tailoring of the breast skin and underlying breast tissue is necessary to produce the desired results.

View various before and after images in our gallery.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?

You may be a suitable candidate for a breast lift if you have sagging breasts, usually due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, excessive large size, weight change, or aging. You may also want to consider it if you notice your nipples sitting below the breast crease or pointing downward.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not get a breast lift. If you are a smoker, you will need to quit before the date of your surgery, since smoking can lead to recovery complications.

Your Breast Lift Consultation

At the initial consultation, we will take your breasts’ measurements while you are standing or seated. We will inquire about your goals for your breasts’ appearance and ask you about your medical history. We will discuss if the breast lift can be combined with a breast augmentation and what you will need to do before and after your surgery.

What Is a Breast Lift Like?

At the start of a breast lift, either general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation will be administered. This will prevent any pain or discomfort during the surgery.

Next, incisions will be created. Standard, donut, and vertical breast lifts involve different incision patterns. The technique selected will primarily depend on the amount of tissue to be removed. Incisions may be made around the areola, down from the areola to the breast crease, and/or along the breast crease.

Excess breast skin will then be removed. Deep stitches may be placed within the breasts to change their shape or reduce areola size. The nipples will be relocated to a higher position and may be resized. The remaining breast skin will be tightened. The incisions will be closed using stitches, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.

What Is Breast Lift Recovery Like?

After the surgery, you must wear a surgical support bra, and the breasts will be protected with gauze. Drainage tubes may be placed at the incision sites to remove excess fluid or blood.

You may have bruised or swollen breasts for two weeks after the procedure. You may feel soreness and pain around the incision sites, and your areolae, nipples, and breast skin may feel numb.

During recovery, avoid bending, straining, lifting, and engaging in sexual activity for one to two weeks. Sleep on your side or back to avoid putting pressure on your breasts. Stitches may be removed one to two weeks after the breast lift.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?

The total price of a breast lift varies based on a number of factors. The cost of the anesthesia, surgeon fees, prescriptions, post-surgical procedures, and hospital costs can all play a role in the overall price.

Schedule Your Consultation

Do you need a breast lift in Orange County? Come to the Plastic Surgery Institute of California for an informative consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. Contact us today to book your appointment.