What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a common breast enhancement procedure where Dr. Sweat is able to improve the position of the breasts by removing any excess skin or tissue that may have stretched out due to conditions such as weight gain, pregnancy, or the natural aging process. A breast lift can be done alone or in combination with a breast augmentation or breast reduction.

Who is a Candidate for a Breast Lift?

Women who are experiencing sagging or drooping breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, fluctuations in weight, or heredity can often benefit from a breast lift. This procedure can improve the shape of the breasts as well as raise them to a perkier position.

Droopiness of the breasts is determined mostly by the position of the nipple, with a grading system that determines how droopy the breast tissue might be for any given person’s anatomy. In general, once the nipple reaches the level of the fold under the breast, a breast lift may be necessary to improve the shape and appearance of sagging breasts. Dr. Sweat always encourages a personal consultation to understand which breast lift procedure is right for each person’s expectations.

Breast Lift Techniques

Breast lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and breast implants can also be inserted at the time of the surgery if desired. Through the incision pattern that is right for you, excess breast skin and fat can be removed, helping to elevate the breasts. The remaining skin and fat can also be reshaped to create a more youthful breast contour. Incisions will then be closed with sutures.

The Vertical (Lollipop) Incision

This incision is created around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease, and is ideal for those with a mild to moderate amount of breast ptosis. When performed in combination with a breast implant, this is the most common type of lift pattern that Dr. Sweat performs.

While many women are understandably concerned about the associated scarring with a breast lift, the improvement in breast shape often outweighs this concern and the vertical incision tends to heal and fade extremely well with time.

The Inverted-T (Anchor) Incision

This incision is created around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and then horizontally underneath the breast crease. It is best for those with a significant amount of breast sagging. While more commonly used for breast reduction in selected circumstances, this extensive scar pattern is rarely necessary for breast lift procedures performed at J. Sweat Plastic Surgery in Sacramento.

The Peri-Areolar (Donut) Incision

This incision is created just around the areola, and is ideal for those with a mild amount of breast sag. Although these breast lifts are associated with minimal breast lift results, so is the associated scarring. However, this technique tends to flatten the projection of the breast and can stretch the nipple significantly.

The Results

Following a breast lift, patients will need to wear a supportive soft cotton sports bra to diminish swelling and support the breasts as they heal. Patients should avoid straining, bending, and lifting, as well as strenuous activity that might cause dislocation or undue stress to the breasts for upwards of 6 weeks.

Many patients are able to return to work within a week or two, depending on their job. Incisions will be red or pink and fade over the many months following surgery. Remember to follow Dr. Sweat’s aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results.

Learn More About Your Potential Breast Lift Surgery

Interested in learning more about breast lift surgery? Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation. For more information, visit our blog!