A woman’s breasts may droop as a result of the natural effects of aging, heredity, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss. A breast lift, or mastopexy, corrects sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple higher. This operation is a trade-off of improved shape for permanent scars. This scar is hidden in all close and typically heals very well with minimal visibility.

Breast lifts rejuvenate the breasts by trimming excess skin and tightening supporting tissues to achieve an lifted, youthful contour. After a mastopexy, the breasts are higher on the chest and firmer to the touch. Breast lifts can also reposition and reduce the size of the areola, the dark skin surrounding the nipple, which may have stretched or drooped. Breast size does not change after a breast lift, nor does the fullness or roundness in the upper part of the breasts. Women who desire larger or more rounded breasts may want to consider a breast augmentation with a breast lift.

There are multiple approaches to the breast lift. The three most common incision types are two rings around the areola in a doughnut shape, around the areola and down to the breast crease in a lollipop shape, and the lollipop with an additional half-moon incision along the breast crease, in an anchor shape. Dr. Haddock will discuss the incision pattern with you during the consultation. The choice will be dictated by your goals and anatomy.

After breast lift surgery a surgical bra is often placed. This soft support bra is worn 24 hours a day for about a month. The breasts are often bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable after surgery, but this will pass in a few days. Any numbness in the breasts and nipples should lessen as swelling subsides.

The possible risks include bleeding, infection, temporary or permanent numbness in the nipple or areola, uneven positioning or shape of breasts or nipples, widening of scars, poor incision healing, fluid buildup, breast hardening, damage or necrosis of breast tissues, and need for revision surgery.