Breast Lift

The mature-yet-youthful feminine form is a powerfully iconic image in cultures all over the world, having inspired art and religious worship throughout history. The image, though eternal in the mind, loses its suppleness all too quickly in the flesh. Time and gravity make breasts sag, robbing the skin of its elasticity and mammary tissue of its internal support. The result is often discomfort and a physical appearance that many women find less appealing.

Our Bethesda plastic surgeon, Mark E. Richards, MD, can use breast lift surgery to combat ptosis (sagging) and restore a more supported bustline. His clients who have sought breast enhancement through breast lift can attest to the power of this surgery. Dr. Richards has years of experience performing breast lift surgery, which he also often recommends for post-bariatric patients. His status as one of the most progressive cosmetic surgeons in the country makes him especially well suited to perform this procedure, as newer techniques allow it to be performed with better results and less scarring.

At Ageless Impressions – Plastic Surgery Institute, we can help you rediscover a more youthful and feminine look with breast lift surgery. To learn more about this procedure or schedule a consultation with Dr. Richards, please contact us today.

*Individual Results May Vary

Breast Lift Surgery at a Glance

  • Sedation: General anesthesia
  • Potential Benefits: More supported, symmetrical, and youthful-looking breasts; reduction in breast sag (ptosis); improved self-confidence when wearing certain clothing, bathing suits, or bras
  • Potential Risks: Swelling, bruising, soreness, discoloration; (less commonly) bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia*
  • Procedure Length: Approximately two to four hours
  • Recovery Time: Patients can typically return to work after a week; intense exercise can usually be resumed within a month
  • Cost: Variable

What Is a Breast Lift?

Mastopexy (the medical term for a breast lift) comes in a variety of styles and techniques. All of them aim to adjust one or more of the three factors that determine the shape of the breast: the excess skin of the breast area, the shape of the tissue inside the breasts, and the volume of the breast tissue.

Breast enhancement is often possible by removing the structures and/or securely repositioning the tissue. In cases where there is insufficient breast volume, breast implants can often be used in combination with a lift to add volume and achieve a more ideal shape.

Breast Lift Surgery vs. Breast Reduction

Although a breast lift and a breast reduction are sometimes mentioned together, they are distinct procedures designed to achieve different goals. A breast lift (mastopexy) is performed to raise and reshape the breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple-areola complex to a more youthful height. The procedure does not significantly change breast size, but it can restore a firmer, more lifted contour.

By contrast, a breast reduction aims to reduce both volume and weight while also commonly providing a “lifting” effect. Beyond its potential aesthetic benefits, breast reduction surgery is often recommended for women who experience physical discomfort, back or shoulder pain, or lifestyle limitations due to overly large breasts.

No matter your unique case, Dr. Richards can help determine whether a breast lift, a breast reduction, or a combination of both procedures may best suit your goals.

Complementary Procedures to Breast Lift Surgery

A breast lift can improve the shape, fullness, and volume of the breasts when age, pregnancy, or genetic predisposition lead to drooping or sagging (known as “ptosis”). These same factors can affect additional areas of the body, as well, namely the abdomen, arms, and lower body.

Dr. Richards offers a range of cosmetic treatments that can help restore a more youthful figure. In addition to breast reduction or breast augmentation, these procedures can include tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, and even a variety of facial enhancement or non-surgical options.

When multiple cosmetic treatments are combined into one (especially with the intent of addressing age- or hormone-related concerns), we usually refer to the process as a “Mommy Makeover.” If you would like to comprehensively enhance your post-childbirth appearance, we would be happy to help you meet your goals!

What Does the Breast Lift Procedure Involve?

When you arrive for your initial consultation, Dr. Richards will discuss your cosmetic goals and perform a thorough examination. He will then customize a treatment plan that utilizes the optimal technique for your needs and desired outcome. Some patients prefer breast implants, which can enhance volume as well as shape, while others favor a more natural approach with internal suturing of the existing breast tissue into a more beautiful shape. Dr. Richards will attentively listen to your concerns and guide you in your decision to achieve the best results possible.

A full breast lift involves making an incision around part of the areola, another at the bottom of the breast, and a third in between those two. This method, sometimes called the anchor incision, allows Dr. Richards the most freedom to sculpt the final breast shape. In addition to the anchor technique, there are options known as the “donut” and the “lollipop” breast lift methods. The anchor technique generally offers the best aesthetics for breasts that have too much vertical and horizontal skin excess. A modified breast lift can produce less scarring since it uses fewer incisions; however, this approach is ideally suited for smaller breasts with only a vertical excess of skin. Either way, breast lift incisions usually fade to be unnoticeable over time, though this varies among individuals. Recognizing that your needs and goals are unique, your plan will be tailored to give you the best possible outcome.

What Does Recovery from a Breast Lift Entail?

General anesthesia is used during breast lift surgery, and the procedure can take between two and four hours depending on the technique used and whether you receive breast implants. After the surgery, you should be able to return home the same day. Most patients take one week off from work to recover. Dr. Richards will let you know when you’re ready to resume vigorous activities. You will be prescribed medication to help you manage discomfort during the healing process, although pain should be minimal. We will also provide specific instructions on how to care for your new breasts and when and how to shower. You should also avoid high impact exercise for the first month.

Everyone’s healing rate is unique, and you should listen to your body when participating in activities. If something feels wrong, you may need a little more time before you can do it. Dr. Richards will provide advice and guidance throughout recovery to ensure your experience is as pleasant and effective as possible. Although you should begin to see the results of your procedure almost immediately, swelling can take up to a year to completely subside.

How Long Do Breast Lift Results Last?

The results of breast lift surgery are designed to be long-lasting. Dr. Richards employs advanced techniques to maximize longevity by tightening the supportive tissues beneath the skin, not just removing excess skin alone. With this in mind, natural aging, gravity, and changes in skin elasticity will continue over time and may gradually alter the results. For this reason, Dr. Richards advises patients to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle following the procedure.

Is a Non-Surgical Breast Lift Possible?

While certain non-surgical treatments may be marketed as alternatives to a breast lift, there is currently no known procedure that can replicate the results of this major surgery. Rather, patients seeking a significant and lasting improvement in breast shape, position, and firmness will typically achieve their best outcome with mastopexy. Dr. Richards will be happy to review all appropriate options so you can make an informed decision about the treatment that best aligns with your goals.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?

The cost of breast lift surgery will depend on a number of factors, such as surgeon’s fees, anesthesia expenses, facility usage, any specialized equipment that may be needed, and more.

During your first consultation, our medical team will carefully outline your specific treatment plan and provide a comprehensive estimate of the total cost for your breast lift procedure. We aim to equip you with all necessary information so you can make an informed decision that suits your needs.

Additionally, eligible patients can choose from various payment methods to accommodate their financial situation, including a partnership with a financing company that specializes in plastic surgery loans. We are more than willing to discuss these options and any other questions you may have during your initial visit.

To learn more or schedule your breast lift consultation with Dr. Richards, please contact us today.

Medical References*

Mayo Clinic