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Our bodies go through a variety of physical changes as we get older. One area of the female body that undergoes some of the most significant changes are the breasts. There are numerous things that can affect the appearance of breast tissue including fluctuations in body weight as well as the incredible ability to carry and nurture a child. Both are perfectly normal but can have considerable influence on the size and even the shape of our breasts.

Many women reach a point during their lifetime where they seek to address some of the changes that have affected their body, particularly with their breasts, and maximize their natural beauty. Breast lift surgery is an extremely safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of the breasts and reignite your confidence. Here is what you need to know about this popular cosmetic surgery procedure.

Candidacy for breast lift surgery

Patients who are typically considered to be good candidates for breast lift surgery include those whose:

- Breasts have lost some of their natural shape

- Breasts lack volume

- Nipples fall below the crease of their breasts

- Nipples/areola point downwards

- Breasts are asymmetrical in their position, with one hanging lower than the other

- Areolas are disproportionate to the shape and size of their breasts

Breast lift surgery is not normally recommended for patients who may want to have children in the future. This is because further pregnancy/nursing would alter the breasts and reverse the positive effects of the initial breast lift procedure.

Before you can be approved for any form of cosmetic surgery, including a breast lift, you will first need to attend a consultation appointment with us. This will be used to discuss your aspirations for the procedure and determine if you are a suitable candidate.

Types of breast lift

There are several types of breast lifts available, and we will advise you on which will be most suitable for enhancing the appearance of your breasts. All breast lift surgeries are carried out using a general anesthetic, ensuring that you are asleep and will not experience any pain whatsoever whilst the surgery is being performed.

The ‘Donut Lift’ - This type of breast lift is often carried out alongside augmentation surgery (where the breast size is increased) and is recommended for patients with mild sagging and drooping. An incision is made around the areola which is used to lift the breast and remove excess skin tissue. The scar from this procedure will blend in well with the areola, making it nearly impossible to see.

The ‘Lollipop Lift’ – This type of breast lift is the most common for standalone lift procedures and is recommended for patients with moderate sagging. A Lollipop Lift involves an incision being made around the areola and down to the inframammary fold in a vertical line– the shape of a lollipop. These incisions mean that the breast can be lifted and reshaped, creating the appearance of more volume without the need for implants, as well as lifting the breasts higher on the chest.

The ‘Anchor Lift’ – This breast lift procedure is recommended for patients with very large, heavy breasts. Three incisions are made – the lollipop incision listed above, as well as an incision along the length of the inframammary fold. This enables us to completely transform the shape and position of your breasts. The Anchor Lift nearly always necessitates the re-positioning of the areola and nipple to higher on the chest.

Recovering following breast lift surgery

Since breast lift surgery is a major procedure, you will need to ensure that you take enough time off of work to recover. Your surgical team will be able to advise you on exactly how long this should be depending on your individual circumstances.

It will take up to 24 hours for the general anesthetic to completely wear off. During this time, you may feel disorientated, confused and nauseous. Your chest will be covered with bandages as well as a compression garment. This compression garment helps to control swelling and keeps your breasts in their new position whilst the incisions heal. You’ll be prescribed pain relief to help with your discomfort which should be taken as directed.

It is crucial that you follow the aftercare and recovery instructions given to you by our surgical team as this will help minimize your risk of experiencing complications and support you in achieving the best possible result from your breast lift surgery.

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To discuss breast lift surgery with our team in more detail, or to schedule a confidential consultation, please contact our plastic surgery offices in Oakland, CA today by calling 510-451-6950.