Breast Lift

Breast lift (or mastopexy) is a surgical procedure that is performed to lift and reshape sagging breasts. Over the years, breasts lose their shape and firmness from natural aging, pregnancies, and nursing.

This procedure is the only way elevate sagging breasts. By tightening loose skin and repositioning the nipple, the breast lift creates a more youthful appearance. In some cases, Dr. Dry may recommend breast implants (in a separate or combined procedure) to restore breast fullness.

When to Consider Breast Lift Surgery

Plastic surgeons will recommend a breast lift if the patient presents a condition called breast ptosis. This condition can be measured on a scale commonly called the Regnault classification. A simplified version of this scale is below:

Mild Ptosis: If you exhibit mild breast ptosis, your breasts would appear to be level with the breast crease. Surgery to correct this may be less extensive, often requiring an incision around the nipple followed by removal of a circle-shaped area of skin.

Moderate Ptosis: If you exhibit moderate breast ptosis, the nipple would reside below the breast crease. A breast lift in this case may involve one incision around the areola and possibly the inverted T incision, which travels down toward the breast crease.

Severe Ptosis: In cases of severe breast ptosis, the nipple would reside at the lowest point on the breast, pointing downward. This condition is common among patients who experience massive weight loss. A breast lift in these cases will typically require the most extensive surgical approach.

Breast Lift Procedure Details

A breast lift will take about 1 – 3 hours, usually as an outpatient procedure. The surgery can sometimes be done under local anesthesia, but general anesthesia is the most common choice for plastic surgeons performing a breast lift.  After incisions are made, skin and glandular tissue is removed to tighten the breast, while the nipple and areola is repositioned. Incisions are then closed with sutures.

How will I look and feel after a breast lift?

After surgery, you will be sore and tired, and you may experience some swelling and discomfort. The doctor will prescribe a medication to help you manage pain during this period. Some changes in nipple and breast sensation should be expected as well. Numbness and dry skin are possible side effects that frequently occur.

The incisions will be covered with gauze and tape, and a special post-operative bra will be provided, which should be worn as instructed by Dr. Dry. Your activities will be limited during recovery, so plan to get plenty of rest and follow the doctor’s instructions.

How long will is the recovery after breast lift surgery?

Typical recovery time is 1 – 2 weeks, but you may need to refrain from vigorous activities for as long as 6 weeks. The scars from breast lift surgery will be noticeable at first, but over time (mainly the first year) they will fade and flatten out.

Would you like more information about plastic surgery and the breast lift procedure? Contact the office of Kirkland/Seattle area plastic surgeon Dr. Gavin Dry to schedule a consultation.