About Breast Lifts

New Horizons Plastic Surgery, Dr. H. James Webb, FACS

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a cosmetic procedure that raises and firms sagging breasts. A breast lift makes the shape of your breast more attractive.

Over time, many factors can impact a woman's body contour. Weight fluctuations, decreased exercise regimens, pregnancy and breast-feeding are some of the major contributing factors, not to mention the force of gravity. The loss of skin elasticity causes the shape and firmness to be affected, which in turn causes breasts to sag and the areola to become enlarged. On many occasions, breast implants are inserted during the breast lift procedure on patients who have small breasts or who have lost volume over the years. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and firm sagging breasts and/or reduce the size of the areola (dark-colored skin surrounding the nipple).

In an initial consultation, Dr. Webb will discuss the breast lift procedure with you, which will include all your options, risks, expectations, costs and benefits. You will also be given specific instructions about surgical preparation and your recovery. To achieve and maintain the best results from this procedure, it is best to postpone it until after any future pregnancies you may be planning, even though there are no hindrances to breast feeding. The breast lift/mastopexy procedure takes about an hour and a half to three hours to perform under general anesthesia with incisions outlining the area of skin to be removed and where the new nipple is to be positioned. If you are having breast implants in conjunction with your breast lift, they will be placed in a pocket under the breast tissue or under the muscle of the chest wall.

In your recovery after the breast lift/mastopexy surgery, you can expect the breasts to be swollen and sore due to bruising caused by the removal of skin and repositioning of the surrounding tissue. You will wear bandages or a surgical bra for a few days, after which a soft support bra should be worn for three or four weeks around the clock. Stitches are normally removed a week or two after surgery.

Your pain from breast lift surgery will not be severe, and any discomfort can be relieved by prescription medications. If the breast skin becomes dry, you may apply a moisturizer taking care to avoid the incision areas. Swollen breasts after surgery may result in some temporary loss of feeling in the nipples, but will fade along with the swelling over the next few months. Most patients can return to work within a week or so, but wait for instructions from Dr. Webb before resuming normal activities.

Before and After Pictures

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The Healing Process

While the results are immediate, your reshaped breasts will take time to heal. There are certain things you should expect during your recovery.

The First Week after Your Breast Lift

Plan to take at least one week off work and expect to wear gauze bandages with a support bra for the first seven to 14 days. During the first week of your recovery, you can anticipate:

Mild pain and general discomfort: Your movement will be limited and difficult, so it is wise to have someone help you at home for the days following your surgery. Pain can typically be controlled with medication.
Swelling and bruising: Your breasts will be swollen and tender, and may bruise around your incisions. The bruising should subside in seven to 10 days, and the swelling should go down within one or two weeks.
Itching: Itching and redness around the incisions is common. You can help the healing process by applying antibiotic ointment and refraining from scratching.

All the above are normal. During your consultation and again after your surgery, Dr. Webb will tell you the signs of potential complications that you should look for.

A Few Weeks after Your Breast Lift

Once Dr. Webb removes your stitches, after about one or two weeks, you should be able to return to work, depending on the demands of your job. Be sure to limit your physical as well as sexual activities, since arousal can increase postoperative discomfort.

You may feel diminished sensitivity or no feeling at all in your breasts and nipples. Sensation should return after several weeks.

Slow Healing Means Good Results

In the period immediately following your breast lift, you may feel depressed, as your breasts will be swollen and bruised, and will not look as good as you hoped. However, this is part of the healing process and it will pass. The more you know about what to expect, the better attitude you can have, which will speed your recovery. Also remember to allow yourself time to get better. The more time you devote to recovery, the better your results.

Keep in mind that the recovery will be slow and gradual. Although you will be able to see the results of your breast lift immediately, it will take many months until you can enjoy the full outcome.

You should wear a support bra while you are healing, but do not wear a bra with underwire until healing is fully complete because this can damage your tender breast tissue.

The content of this page is for informational purposes only and shouldn't be taken as medical advice. If you need personalized medical advice, please schedule a consultation with New Horizons Plastic Surgeon Dr. Webb.