Breast Lift in Orange County, CA
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, breast implant removal, and genetics can cause breast ptosis—lax, stretched skin that causes breasts to sag and nipples to point downward. To test ptosis: if a pencil placed under the breast against the chest stays in position once the breast rests against it, breast sag has become significant.
Today’s advanced surgical breast lift restores youthful position and fullness, allowing patients to enjoy their results for years to come. In one procedure, the surgeon optimizes size, shape, nipple position, and firmness and can address asymmetrical breasts. The breast lift is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world and one of the highest-rated for patient satisfaction.
To learn more about how a breast lift can improve your profile, contact UCI Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation at one of our primary locations in Orange, Costa Mesa, and Tustin. You can also view a list of our locations and appointment phone numbers here.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, raises the breasts and repositions the nipple by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and reshaping the interior of the breast to create a naturally youthful look. Sagging, flattened breasts are made round and plump, and the nipple is placed higher on the chest. In some cases, the surgery also reduces the size of the areola, which can become enlarged over time.
Breast lift surgery reshapes but cannot increase the size of the breasts significantly. A breast lift may be conducted with or without breast implants. For patients who desire an increase in breast size, a breast lift with implants is an excellent option.
Reasons Women Choose Breast Lift
Many women choose to have a breast lift after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Others choose a breast lift to correct sagging caused by weight fluctuations or tubular breasts caused by genetics.
No matter the reason, you can determine your need for a breast lift by asking yourself these questions:
- Do my nipples point downward?
- Do my nipples sit below the crease under my breast?
- Does the skin on my breasts appear stretched?
- Are my areolas too large?
- Are my breasts asymmetrical or unusually shaped in a way that bothers me?
A breast lift can correct these problems and provide a bustline that better aligns with your desired aesthetic.
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What Are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?
Breast lift surgery can have many benefits, including:
- Enhanced breast shape
- Lifted, youthful breasts
- Improved nipple projection
- Relief from irritation and chafing skin under the breasts
- More wardrobe options
- Increased confidence
Am I a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
You may be a good candidate for a breast lift if you are:
- bothered by sagging, flattened, or elongated breasts or downward-pointing nipples
- in good health
- close to your ideal weight
- doing it for your own benefit
- realistic in your expectations
- a non-smoker
If you smoke or use tobacco, you will need to quit at least three weeks in advance of your surgery and remain tobacco-free for at least three weeks after.
It is best to wait until you are finished having children before pursuing a breast lift. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the shape and size of the breasts. If you plan to have children after your breast lift, tell your surgeon during your consultation.
Start Your Journey Today!
UCI Plastic Surgery is a leader in the field of cosmetic surgery. Each of our specialists is highly knowledgeable, trained, and committed to bringing our patients the latest advancements in the field. Learn how our experts can help you obtain industry-leading results by scheduling a consultation today.
Schedule A ConsultationYour Consultation
The first step in the process is a consultation with one of our highly qualified plastic and reconstructive surgeons. During this consultation, you will discuss:
- Expectations: This is your opportunity to describe your desired aesthetic. You can bring photos to illustrate your goals, so you and your surgeon are on the same page.
- Your medical history: This will include current and previous medical conditions and surgeries, any family history of breast cancer, current medications, and allergies.
- Your lifestyle: This includes vitamins and supplement use, smoking and drinking habits, significant weight loss, and plans for future breastfeeding. All of these are important for your provider to know about so they can make the best recommendations for you.
- Risks: Your surgeon will inform you about the risks associated with the breast lift procedure.
- Options: Your surgeon will make treatment recommendations based on your goals, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
If it is determined that a breast lift is a good option for you, your surgeon will perform a physical examination of your breasts, and “before” photos will be taken. Finally, your surgeon will draw up a surgical plan, discuss costs, and, if appropriate, the surgery date may be scheduled.
Be sure to come prepared with any questions or concerns you have, no matter how big or small. Of course, you are always welcome to call us with additional questions after your consultation.
How Is Breast Lift Surgery Performed?
Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. While you are unconscious, the surgeon will make incisions to remove excess skin, raise the position of the nipple, and reshape the breast into a firmer, rounder form. This procedure can be performed with or without implants, depending on your unique surgical plan. Fine stitches are used when closing the incisions to make scars as invisible as possible.
The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the changes being made. It will take another hour or two to wake up from the anesthesia. You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home.
Incisions
Depending on the corrections to be made, different techniques may be used. These affect the placement of incisions:
Periareolar, Benelli, or “Donut” Lift
- Incision: Circle around the nipple
- Corrects moderate sagging
- Might be a good choice if the nipple is above the breast crease
- Can reduce areola size
Crescent Lift
- Incision: Half circle along the top half of the areola
- Corrects mild sagging
- Might be a good choice if the main problem is downward-facing nipples
- Can be used in combination with breast augmentation
Vertical or “Lollipop” Lift
- Two incisions: One circling the areola and another from the areola to the breast crease (inframammary fold)
- More extensive lifting for moderate sagging
Inverted T or “Anchor” Lift
- Three incisions: in a circle around the areola, vertically from the areola down to the inframammary fold, and along the curve of the inframammary fold
- Most extensive lifting for moderate to severe sagging
In a personal consultation at UCI Plastic Surgery, your surgeon can explain which of these options will be most appropriate for the results you want to achieve.
What Is Breast Lift Recovery Like?
Every recovery process is unique to the individual, so it is hard to say exactly how your recovery will go. Generally, you’ll experience some bruising and swelling in the first days after surgery. You’ll be prescribed pain medication and given a surgical bra or other supportive garments to wear to reduce discomfort. Expect to need a full week of downtime after the procedure. You’ll want to arrange for help in these first few days, as your strength and range of motion will be limited. You’ll need to avoid reaching for things above your head and lifting anything heavier than five pounds. While taking pain medication, you won’t be able to drive.
Exercise
You’ll be asked to refrain from exercise for two weeks after surgery. After that, you can gradually return to your exercise routine, resuming more strenuous activities after four to six weeks.
Return to Work
You should be able to return to office-type work after a week. If your job involves strenuous activity or heavy lifting, you’ll need to take more time off.
Your Recovery Team at UCI
We will provide detailed recovery instructions, including how to contact us with questions or concerns and a plan for follow-up appointments.
What Results Can I Expect From My Breast Lift?
The results of your breast lift will be immediately visible but may be initially obscured by swelling. It may take a few months for your breasts to settle into their new shape and position, so expect your results to continue improving during this time.
Your breasts can still change with age and environmental factors like gravity. For best results, maintain your weight and a healthy lifestyle. However, you can expect to enjoy long-lasting results from your breast lift surgery.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost in Orange County?
The cost of a breast lift in Orange County, CA, can vary from patient to patient. Several factors influence the cost of breast lift surgery, including patient health, body type, breast size, and the details and complexity of your surgical plan, including the selected technique and any combination procedures. Other surgical fees include anesthesia, medical tests, and compression garments.
Our team will provide more pricing details about your breast lift procedure during your consultation.
Breast Lift FAQs
Will a breast lift affect nipple sensation?
Every attempt is made to maintain nipple sensation. However, depending on the technique, breast size, areola size, and other factors, some loss of nipple sensation may occur. Some patients experience a temporary loss of sensation, which returns after several months.
Will a breast lift leave scars?
Scars are inevitable with any surgery, but they will fade over time with proper care. The extent of scarring depends on the type of incision used, your skin type, and how well you heal. Our surgeons aim to place incisions in less visible areas and use fine stitches to minimize their appearance. Following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, such as proper wound care and avoiding sun exposure, can help reduce scar visibility and promote better healing.
Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast lift?
It’s best to have a breast lift after you’re done having children. Another pregnancy and breast-feeding can stretch breast skin. If this is a concern, be sure to discuss it with your surgeon during your consultation.
How does a breast lift impact breast size?
A breast lift on its own does not change the size of the breasts, although changing their shape can give the appearance of a size enhancement. To increase volume and create medial fullness, the procedure can be combined with breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer.
How do I determine if I need a breast lift?
A breast lift is more common in patients over 40, but age is not the ultimate determinant. Many women, especially mothers, may need a breast lift due to body changes or heredity before age 40.
The easiest way to determine you may need a lift is to put a pen or pencil in your natural breast crease. If it stays underneath from the weight of your breast, chances are you need a lift. You can also look in the mirror from a side view. If your nipples fall below your breast crease, you might consider a lift.
Do I need a breast lift or a breast reduction?
A breast lift is the best choice for women who struggle with sagging breasts. A breast reduction is better for women who struggle with overly large breasts that can cause difficulties like back pain. Breast lift surgery removes excess skin only, while breast reduction surgery removes excess skin and breast tissue. To determine which procedure best suits your needs, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us.
What are the risks of breast lift surgery?
As with any surgery, risks associated with breast lift surgery include bleeding, infection, loss of sensation, anesthesia complications, and breast asymmetry. Choosing a highly qualified surgeon and following their preoperative and postoperative instructions greatly minimizes the likelihood of surgical complications. Your surgeon will discuss risks and complications at your consultation, and you will have an opportunity to address any concerns you may have.
Can I combine a breast lift with other procedures?
Combining surgical procedures is possible, but it’s important to note that combining a breast lift with another surgery is subject to your surgeon’s approval. When it is safe and appropriate to do so, many women choose to combine a breast augmentation with their breast lift to add volume and firmness. In addition, mothers often include a breast lift in a Mommy Makeover surgery. Other women combine their breast lift with liposuction for a more dramatic transformation in their silhouette.
Interested in Breast Lift Surgery in Irvine, CA?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and determine whether a breast lift is right for you. We’ll answer your questions and explain what you can expect from the procedure. We have offices in Orange, Costa Mesa, and Tustin and offer our services at six sites throughout Orange County. View a list of our locations and phone numbers here.
