What is a Breast Lift? And Other Breast Lift FAQs6 min read
MELANIE SCHWARZ
Melanie Schwarz is a registered nurse who works closely with each of our patients to provide the quality treatment they deserve for optimal results.
Eventually, our breasts will droop. Whether it’s due to gravity, hormonal changes during pregnancy, or something else, our breasts take a lot throughout life. Would you like your breasts to feel sexy and perky again? Then a breast lift might be for you. Here, we answer some of the most common questions you might have about breast lifts.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a cosmetic surgery that reduces sagging and restores perkiness to the breast. It works by removing excess skin and fat, tightening the skin in the surrounding areas, and occasionally relocating the nipple as needed. A breast lift does not add or take away volume; it simply gives breasts a little more life and reverses the effects of stretching and gravity.
How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?
In ideal conditions, you will be enjoying the benefits of your breast lift surgery for years to come! Time and aging will naturally cause your breasts to lose their perkiness over time. To increase the longevity of your breast lift, we recommend waiting until after you’re finished bearing children to undergo the procedure.
How Does a Breast Lift Work?
There are three different techniques that can be used to lift the breast, and your doctor will help you determine which method is the best for you. Depending on many factors – including your desired outcome, the amount of sagging and or excess skin, and whether or not adding volume is an option you are interested in – your doctor will help you decide between the donut, lollipop, or anchor-style breast lift.
A lollipop-style breast lift is perfect for clients to have moderate to severe sagging in their breasts. An anchor breast lift is designed for patients that are severely affected by extra skin that causes extreme drooping. And a donut-style lift is more of a minor adjustment, ideal for mild cases. You and your doctor will be able to decide together which “style” of breast lift will work best for you.
Can I Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?
It is possible to breastfeed after a breast lift in most cases; however, your doctor will recommend that you wait to have your breast lift done until your biological family is complete. Pregnancy and especially breastfeeding can case the breast to lose its shape and firmness.
What Does Recovery From a Breast Lift Look Like?
What will your breast lift recovery look like? The initial two to three days will be the most difficult, as incisions will be tender and sore. Patients are generally able to return to all their normal (non-strenuous) activities within seven to ten days of the surgery. Once the initial healing period is complete, you can expect to lose nipple sensitivity for up to three to six months post-operation. The final outcome will continue to become more evident for up to one year afterwards as you completely heal.
Will My Breast Lift Leave Scars?
A breast lift, as with any cosmetic surgery, requires artistry. Working with a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon will help ensure minimal scarring.
But, there are several ways you can reduce your chances of severe scarring. 1) Ensure that your doctor is board-certified, professional, and determined to place incisions in an ideal location for you and your body. 2) Be mindful of post-op incision site care instructions, and ensure that you follow them closely. 3) Use any scar creams or other scar treatment your doctor recommends, but prepare yourself to wait up to a year and a half before your scars begin to whiten and fade.
Can You Lift Your Breasts with Exercise?
Can you skip the surgery and sweat it out to perk up your breasts? Short answer: No. The breast is comprised primarily of fat and tissues, not muscle. So while it is possible to do specific exercises to help your posture and your pectoral muscles (the underlying muscle beneath the breast), improving these areas will not lift your breasts themselves. The only true way to lift your breasts is by surgery.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The cost of a breast lift varies from client to client, as it depends heavily on whether or not the lift will be done in conjunction with another aspect of breast augmentation, or any other cosmetic surgery. To determine an accurate idea of what you would pay for a breast lift, schedule an initial consultation with your plastic surgeon, and ask for a quote tailored to you.
Will Insurance Cover My Breast Lift?
Most cosmetic surgeries are not covered by insurance, but some breast lifts or other types of breast augmentations may be covered in the event of a mastectomy reconstruction. Talk to your doctor and insurance company to find out specifics.
NOTE: We don’t take insurance or work with insurance companies. Patients pay for the surgery upfront and we provide them with a superbill, and other documents they may need to apply for reimbursement.
Want to perk-up your breasts?
We invite you to simply come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chang or one of the cosmetic laser and injection nurses to explore whether you would make a good candidate. To find out more whether Aesthetica can help you, contact us online or at 703-729-5553 to arrange an appointment. Dr. Phillip Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Northern Virginia near Leesburg, Virginia and an expert in a wide variety of cosmetic treatments.
Let Us Help You!
Our office can provide you with helpful information, schedule a free consultation, and walk you through the many services and procedures we offer.
Contact Dr. Chang's Office:
More Articles For You
When Do Boobs Stop Growing? Finding the Perfect Time for Breast Surgery
Ever wondered when your boobs finally decide to take a break from growing? Or you’re
Are Silicone Injections in Buttocks Safe?
In today’s world, where the aesthetic appeal of one’s body can often feel as though
Does a Mommy Makeover Include BBL?
Many women look forward to the blessings of motherhood. Having a child is a very
Male Plastic Surgery: Before and After
Women aren’t the only ones who want an aesthetically pleasing body. Men do too. And