Breast Lift

Breast Lift New Jersey

Pregnancy, nursing, and the effects of age and gravity can cause breasts to lose volume, sag, and change shape. Breast lift (or mastopexy) raises and reshapes sagging breasts to make them firmer. Patients undergoing mastopexy also often have the darker skin surrounding the nipple (or areola) reduced.

You may be an excellent candidate for a breast lift if you have small, sagging breasts. If you have large breasts, you might need a breast reduction at the same time as your breast lift to prevent additional sagging. If you have small, sagging breasts that have lost volume over the years, you may choose to have a breast lift with implants to enhance the size and firmness of your breasts.

Because pregnancy typically enlarges the breasts and causes additional sagging, mastopexy is not recommended if you plan to become pregnant.

Your Consultation

During your consultation, your surgeon will examine you and ask you how you would like your breasts to look. He or she will then make recommendations that are appropriate for your age, the size and shape of your breasts, condition of your skin, and overall anatomy. Your surgeon will tell you what you can expect before, during, and after your procedure, including limits and risks.

The Procedure

Mastopexy usually takes 1½ to 3 hours. It can be performed in our office operating suite or as an outpatient procedure at the hospital. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia may be used.

The surgical technique and location of the incisions depends on your anatomy and the amount of lift needed to achieve your desired effect. Any excess skin will be removed and your nipples and breasts will be lifted higher on your chest. Incisions must be made on the top of the breasts to relocate the areola and nipple. As a result, there is visible scarring. Most women find that the scars fade considerably over time, but women with darker or thicker skin are likely to always see the scars somewhat. You will probably receive dissolvable sutures.

If you have relatively small breasts and minimal sagging, you may be a candidate for smaller incisions. If you are having breast augmentation with your breast lift, the implant will be placed in a pocket under the breast tissue or muscle of the chest wall.

Recovery and Results

You will receive thorough written instructions to prepare for and recover from your procedure. The instructions will include ways to prevent infection and when to follow up with your surgeon.

Most patients can go home a few hours after surgery. You will be required to wear an elastic bandage or surgical bra over gauze dressings. You will be told how and when to change the dressings.

Bruising and soreness is usually minimal for a few days, but swelling may last for a few weeks to several months. This will delay your ability to see the final results of your surgery. You can manage any discomfort with oral over-the-counter or prescription medication if necessary.

You should be able to return to work within a week or 2, but you may have to wear a surgical bra and limit your activities for several weeks. You must sleep only on your back and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a few weeks after surgery.

Even after a breast lift, gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight fluctuations can affect the firmness and location of your breasts. Women who have implants with their breast lift may enjoy longer-lasting results. Please review the breast lift with implants page for more information.

Call Summit Medical Group today at 908-277-8759 to make an appointment or for more information about how breast lift surgery can restore sagging breasts to a younger, firmer appearance.