A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Factors such as gravity, aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight changes can cause breasts to lose their youthful shape and firmness. Mastopexy addresses these concerns by removing excess skin, tightening breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful height.

What Causes Breast Sagging?

Breast ptosis (sagging) can occur due to several factors:

  • Natural aging and loss of skin elasticity
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Significant weight fluctuations
  • Gravitational effects over time
  • Genetics and hereditary factors

The Procedure

Dr. Howley uses various mastopexy techniques depending on the degree of sagging and your desired outcome:

Anchor Lift (Inverted T)

Ideal for significant sagging, this technique involves incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the crease itself. It provides the most dramatic lifting results.

Lollipop Lift (Vertical)

For moderate sagging, incisions are made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. This technique offers excellent lifting with less scarring than the anchor lift.

Donut Lift (Periareolar)

Best for mild sagging, this technique uses a single incision around the areola, resulting in minimal visible scarring.

Breast Lift with Augmentation

Many patients choose to combine their breast lift with breast augmentation to restore lost volume while achieving a lifted appearance. This combination procedure addresses both position and size concerns in a single surgery.

Recovery

Most patients return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. A supportive surgical bra should be worn for several weeks. Final results become apparent as swelling subsides over 3-6 months, revealing firmer, more youthful-looking breasts.

Long-Lasting Results

While a breast lift cannot stop the natural aging process, results are long-lasting. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive bras can help preserve your results for many years.

Breast Lift FAQ

Will a breast lift change my breast size?

A breast lift primarily addresses position and shape rather than size. Your breasts may appear slightly smaller after surgery due to the removal of excess skin and the more compact shape. If you desire larger breasts, we can combine the lift with augmentation.

Will I have visible scars?

Scarring is inevitable with any breast lift, but Dr. Howley uses techniques to minimize visibility. Scars typically fade significantly over 12-18 months and can often be concealed by bras and swimwear.

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?

Many women can breastfeed after a breast lift, though this depends on the technique used. Dr. Howley takes care to preserve the milk ducts and nerve supply to the nipple whenever possible.

How long do results last?

Results are long-lasting, though natural aging continues. Factors like significant weight changes, pregnancy, and gravity will affect your breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals with Dr. Howley.

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