What is a Breast Lift?

Many women that come into our office are unhappy with the shape and size of their breasts after pregnancy, nursing, or menopause, or just from the natural changes that occur with age. If you’re like most, deciphering which procedure is right for you can be complicated. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that’s designed to change the shape of your breasts. This breast enhancement procedure can address a variety of concerns ranging from skin laxity to loss of firmness.

What Can A Breast Lift Accomplish?

No two breast lifts are performed exactly the same for every woman. The procedure is highly individualized based on your concerns and goals. Once we’ve determined what you’d like to accomplish, I’ll create a custom treatment plan that can restore a youthful appearance that will give you the best breasts of your life.

As a board-certified surgeon, I routinely perform breasts lifts to;

• Reduce sagging
• Remove excess skin
• Minimize the appearance of stretch marks
• Re-size or reposition the nipple
• Provide symmetry if the two breasts are different

The improved outward appearance of your new breasts is just one benefit of breast lift surgery. Many women find themselves enjoying an improved self-image and a boost in self-confidence after breast enhancement procedures.

Breast Lift: Recovery and Results

A breast lift is generally done on an outpatient basis. I typically recommend taking at least 7 days for rest and relaxation before slowly resuming a normal activity schedule. Afterward, you can start to incorporate non-strenuous activities as you see fit. More strenuous tasks like exercise should be put on hold for at least 2-3 weeks. Although you’ll generally feel pretty good around this time, full recovery can take 6 weeks.

While the improvement is immediately apparent following surgery, the breasts need to settle and the swelling needs to disappear.  Finally, the scars from the surgery will fade. There are changes for up to 2 years following the surgery.

Am I A Candidate for a Breast Lift?

If you would like to restore a perkier, more youthful appearance to your breasts, you may be a suitable candidate for the procedure. Women considering breast lift surgery should be in otherwise good general health with realistic expectations.

I generally recommend putting any breast enhancement procedures on hold until after you’ve had completed having children since pregnancy following a breast lift can significantly impact the results of your procedure. It’s important to note, a breast lift cannot dramatically change the size of your breasts.

For the best possible outcome, I almost always suggest pairing breast implants, even a very small implant, with your lift.  Doing so can address pregnancy and/or age-related volume loss. At the time of your initial consultation, we’ll discuss all of your options more in-depth so you can make an informed decision about what’s right for you.

Take the Next Step

Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 362-1221. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have!

*Individual results may vary.