Breast lift surgery (mastopexy) improves the profile and shape of sagging breasts, making breasts look more youthful. Breasts may sag after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss and aging. A breast lift can be combined with breast implant surgery, resulting in more fullness as well as a better shape.

How should I prepare for breast lift surgery?

You will first have a thorough consultation with Dr. Shenker to determine your goals for your breast lift. Dr. Shenker’s Patient Coordinator will guide you through all the details of the planning process for your procedure, including financing, scheduling, and paperwork.

Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery.

You are to have nothing to eat or drink for the twelve hours immediately before your surgery.

What are my options for breast lift surgery?

Breast lift surgery may be as simple as raising the nipple and areola by a few millimeters with a small incision around the areola. However, it may also involve removing excess skin to tighten the whole breast skin envelope. Breast lift surgery can be combined with a breast augmentation (breast implant) or with the removal of some breast tissue to reduce the size of the breast. Liposuction of the breast may also help shape the breast.

How is breast lift surgery performed?

While under a general anesthetic, the shortest possible incisions are used to remove excess skin and raise the nipple into a perkier, youthful position. The incisions are all closed using dissolving stitches that do not have to be removed.

What will the day of surgery be like?

You will arrange for someone to drive you to The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic and to pick you up after the procedure. Our staff will assist you with planning for your ride home.

You will meet our highly qualified and professional operating room staff so you will be assured that you are in excellent hands. Our anesthesiologist will talk to you before you go to sleep for your surgery. After the procedure is completed, you will be taken to our recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. After a brief recovery period you will be permitted to leave with your driver.

How will I look and feel initially?

You may have some light bandages over the breast incisions. Sometimes a special bra is used to minimize swelling and maintain the shape of the breasts. You will feel some tightness in the breasts, but post-operative pain is usually minimal.

You will require oral pain medication for the first few days after your surgery. On the first post-operative day you will be able to shower.
There will be some swelling initially, but this will disappear quickly. Most residual swelling will resolve within one month after the procedure.

Vigorous activities should be restricted for a period of two to three weeks. Care must be taken to be extremely gentle with your breasts for at least one month.

When can I resume normal activities?

It is not unusual for breast augmentation patients to resume normal activities, such as driving, cooking, or shopping, within three to five days after surgery. Exercise and physically demanding jobs may be resumed three to six weeks after surgery.

Within one to two weeks following your surgery you will have a follow-up appointment at the Clinic. A second follow up appointment will be scheduled for three to six months after your surgery. You will then be invited to return yearly for on-going follow up.

Results of your breast lift

After a breast lift, your breasts will be higher, tighter and fuller. The shape will be more youthful and the nipple will point forward instead of downward. Clothes may fit better and most women experience a boost in their self-confidence.

How long will the results last?

The results of breast lift are long lasting. However, gravity and the effects of ageing will eventually alter the size and shape of every woman’s breasts. If, after time, you become dissatisfied with the appearance of your breasts, you may choose to undergo a repeat breast lift to restore their youthful contour.

What if I have more questions?

You may contact The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic at any time if you have questions or concerns: 519.746.1132