The Skinny
Average Recovery
4 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$3500 - $6000
The Specifics
What is a mastopexy (a.k.a. breast lift)?
A mastopexy (a.k.a. breast lift) is a plastic surgery procedure to enhance breast shape, breast contour, and breast volume through one of four different techniques. The names of the surgical procedures refer to the type of incision made, and include: crescent, vertical, periareolar, and inverted T.The Anatomy of the Female Breast
The crescent lift is for minimal sagging and creates a very small scar. The vertical lift corrects moderate sagging and breast shape. The periareolar lift is also for mild breast sagging with a scar well hidden along the areolar edge. The inverted T method is for severe sagging and typically used in conjunction with a breast reduction.
All of these breast lift surgeries can be performed with or without implants as part of a breast augmentation or breast reduction. The most appropriate breast lift surgery can be determined through consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.
What cosmetic concerns does a breast lift procedure treat?
1. Breast Shape & Size: Incisions in breast tissue with excision of excess skin, and repositioning of the areola and nipple allow for enhancement of breast size, a more youthful shape, and better breast contour and body contouring. 2. Mommy Makeover: A breast lift can be used to tone and tighten breast skin to improve the appearance of the breast tissue.Who is the ideal candidate for a breast lift procedure?
The ideal candidate for a breast lift procedure is a woman no longer planning to have children with sagging, asymmetric breasts, downward pointing nipples, or those with shape or volume loss. A Breast Lift is not recommended for those who are under 18 years of age, pregnant, or breastfeeding.What is the average recovery associated with a breast lift procedure?
Complete recovery from a breast lift typically takes six weeks. Most candidates return to work after one week once the drains have been removed. Strenuous activities, especially weight bearing and chest exercises, are to be avoided for two to six weeks. To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to breast lift recovery.What are the potential side effects of a breast lift procedure?
Possible side effects following a breast lift include changes in nipple or breast sensation, breast shape and contour irregularities, asymmetry, seroma, fat necrosis, and partial or total loss of the nipple and areola.What can someone expect from the results of a breast lift procedure?
The results of a breast lift procedure are immediately noticeable and permanent enhancements to appearance of the breasts. The results will finalize over a few months during the healing process. Significant weight loss, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy will affect the results.What is the average cost of a breast lift procedure?
A breast lift can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000. The actual cost of a breast lift is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of a breast lift.Pros
- Immediate Results
- Improved Shape
- Improved Volume
Cons
- Feeling Loss
- Sensation Loss
- Asymmetry
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
A breast lift, also referred to as a mastopexy, helps to restore shape and volume to the breasts. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a breast lift procedure.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 1 week before surgery
- Stop using self tanning products
During Treatment: Crescent Lift
- Incision is made on the upper portion of the nipple, running halfway around the edge of the areola
- Excess skin is removed and a slight lift is achieved
- Typically performed in conjunction with augmentation
During Treatment: Peri-Areolar Lift
- Circular incision around the entire edge of the areola
- Excess skin removed in shape of a donut
- Typically performed alongside an augmentation
- Creates a mild lift while also decreasing areola size
During Treatment: Vertical Lift
- First incision made around the perimeter of the areola
- Second incision runs vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast fold
- Excess skin is removed
- Corrects moderate sagging and can reshape the breast
During Treatment: Inverted T
- First incision is made around the perimeter of the areola
- Second incision runs vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast fold
- Third incision is made in the breast crease
- Excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped
- Typically performed during a breast reduction
Immediately After Treatment
- Soreness and swelling
- Changes in sensation
1-2 Weeks After Treatment
- Drains removed
- Return to work after 1 week
- Cardio exercise allowed after 2 weeks
- Continue to wear postoperate garments constantly
3-4 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- Lifting not allowed until after 3-4 weeks
- Chest exercises not allowed for 4-6 weeks
- Full recovery after 6 weeks
- Final results after several months
Result Notes
- Noticeable immediately
- Can be affected by significant weight loss or pregnancy
The Takeaway
A breast lift is a cosmetic surgery to enhance breast contour, shape, size, and volume of the breasts. Typically performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation or breast reduction, a breast lift can be performed with or without breast implants.
