A breast lift allows patients to surgically improve the position and shape of their breasts. For most patients, breast shape can be impacted by either genetics, weight gain or loss, pregnancy, or the effects of aging on breast tissue. Whatever the cause, the impact remains the same, with patients reporting a decrease in body confidence due to sagging breasts. A breast lift uses surgical techniques to remove excess skin and tighten the breast, lifting it into a perkier position. After removing excess skin and tightening the tissues, you can see a livelier, more youthful breast position.

Initial Consultation

Every successful breast lift starts with the foundation of a comprehensive consultation. During this one-on-one meeting with Dr. Chiu, patients can have an in-depth conversation with an experienced surgeon about their goals. You are encouraged to openly discuss your concerns, questions, hopes, and anything else that comes to mind. The more open the communication, the more we can personalize your procedure plan. A consultation typically includes:

• A review of your medical history
• A physical exam
• A discussion of your goals and available options

Preparing for the Procedure

If a breast lift proves the right path for you, the next step is to book your surgery day and start preparing. Preparation steps can vary but usually involve a few key things, such as:

• Exams and bloodwork: Having bloodwork and a mammogram may be needed to ensure you are in ideal health for the procedure.
• Pausing medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, will need to be avoided for a while leading up to surgery.
• Weight adjustments: If you plan to lose weight, it is best to be close to your target weight before surgery. Future weight fluctuations can impact your results.
• Arranging a ride and more: It is best to plan ahead of time for someone to drive you home and then for someone to help you during recovery.

Day of the Procedure

Each breast lift surgery involves a personalized approach. From incision placement to the final position of the breasts, techniques are adjusted to deliver results in line with your preferences. Though procedures vary, some key steps remain the same. A typical breast lift will involve the following:

• Duration: Expect about 2–4 hours on average for the surgery. This may be longer if combined with breast augmentation.
• Anesthesia: We use general anesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the surgery and can take the time we need to deliver outstanding results.
• Incisions: Techniques vary, but the main incisions can be in one of three positions. Around the areola, horizontally along the breast crease, or extending down from the areola to the breast crease. One or more of these options may be used. Common incisions include the lollipop lift technique and the anchor lift technique.
• Wrapping Up: As this is an outpatient procedure, you can return home the same day (with someone driving you).

Your breasts will be in their new position right away after surgery, but it takes time for full results to appear. As you wait for the swelling and bruising to fade, you should see continued improvements. Any scarring may seem visible at first but should gradually fade. Aftercare is crucial to having effective scar improvements. After a couple of months, your breasts should be in their final position and appearance. Your results should last for years, but keeping a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle should help prolong them.

Patients may sometimes feel like their breasts are smaller after a breast lift if much skin was removed. So many patients elect to combine a lift with augmentation, using implants to enhance breast volume. A breast lift and augmentation can be performed during a single surgery to optimize your experience. Additionally, a breast lift is often part of a mommy makeover, which helps mothers reclaim an alluring body after childbirth. It may also be done with a breast reduction, to maintain breast shape despite decreasing the volume.