Breast Lift

A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and elevates sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple-areola complex to a more youthful position. Breast ptosis (sagging) develops after pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, and natural aging. Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift does not add volume — it corrects position and shape. Many patients combine a breast lift with implants (augmentation mastopexy) to restore both volume and position simultaneously.

Degrees of Breast Ptosis

Grade I (Mild Ptosis)

Nipple is at or just below the level of the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast). A crescent or periareolar lift may be sufficient.

Grade II (Moderate Ptosis)

Nipple is below the inframammary fold but above the lowest point of the breast. A vertical (lollipop) incision lift is typically appropriate.

Grade III (Severe Ptosis)

Nipple is at the lowest point of the breast or below, and points downward. A full anchor (inverted-T) lift is required for complete correction.

Breast Lift Techniques

There are several techniques that Dr. Nahai can utilize during breast lift surgery depending on your personal evaluation.

Crescent lift or nipple lift

This approach is performed for patients suffering from mild ptosis. The procedure entails removal of a crescent-shaped piece of tissue around the areola, followed by the repositioning of the areola to a more aesthetically pleasing location.

Benelli breast lift or donut mastopexy

Patients with mild to moderate breast ptosis will benefit greatly from this approach. A donut-shaped piece of tissue from around the areola is excised followed by re-attachment of the remaining tissue to the areola.

Vertical breast lift or lollipop breast lift

Women that suffer from moderate ptosis, may require a technique similar to the benelli lift, but with an additional incision. The additional incision will run vertically from beneath the areola down to the breast crease.

Full breast lift or anchor lift or inverted-T lift:

Ladies with severe breast ptosis will require an anchor-shaped incision that runs from the base of the areola to the bottom of the breast. A crescent-shaped piece of skin from where the breast meets the rib cage will be removed, and re-positioning to the nipple for a more aesthetically appropriate position.

Dr. Nahai stresses to each patient that the surgery does not significantly change the size of the patient’s breasts or round out the upper part of the breast. For fuller breasts, consider combining a breast lift with breast augmentation. To decrease the size of your breasts consider combining a breast lift with breast reduction surgery.

Breast Lift Candidates

Over time a woman’s breasts undergo change, losing their youthful shape and fullness. These changes and loss of skin elasticity have a variety of causes. If you have experienced any of the events listed you may be a good candidate for the breast lift procedure:

• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Weight fluctuations
• Aging
• Gravity
• Heredity

Aftercare & Recovery

After the procedure, Dr. Nahai will wrap your breasts with bandages and insert a small drain to eliminate any excess fluid or blood buildup. A support bra will be provided to minimize post-surgical swelling, and any scarring will gradually fade from red to an inconspicuous white line.

Patients can usually resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks after surgery; however, heavy lifting and vigorous exercise must be avoided for the first few months after surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, you will most likely experience some pain and swelling. The majority of the swelling will likely subside within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken for discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I combine a breast lift with implants?

A: If you are happy with your current volume but want improved position, a breast lift alone is appropriate. If you want both improved position and additional volume, augmentation mastopexy (combined implant + lift in one surgery) achieves both goals in one recovery. Your MetroDerm plastic surgeon will recommend the optimal approach for your anatomy and goals.

Q: Does a breast lift leave visible scars?

A: All mastopexies involve incisions, and scars are permanent. Scar placement, technique, and patient healing all influence the final appearance. Most breast lift scars fade significantly over 12-18 months and are positioned so they are not visible in most clothing and swimwear.

Q: How long do breast lift results last?

A: Breast lift results typically last 10+ years. Factors that can accelerate re-ptosis include pregnancy, significant weight changes, and gravity over time. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive bras after surgery helps preserve the result.

Procedures & Treatments