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Breast Lift (mastopexy): What is it?

A breast lift (mastopexy surgery) is a surgical procedure designed to raise the position of the breasts. The procedure generally involves removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue to restore the rounded look of healthy, attractive breasts, but your surgery will be fully personalized to match your specific desires. If your nipples need recentering or you wish they were smaller and more delicate, a breast lift in Houston with Dr. Courtney may be a great option for you. A breast lift can give you back a youthful, perky position and restore fullness and shape, creating proportionate, firmly rounded breasts.

Breast Lift Overview

    What Happens During a Breast Lift Procedure

    In your breast lift, the tissues are altered to reduce fullness in the lower portion of the breasts and the upper breast is re-contoured. Once the new shape and position are created, any excess skin is removed so the remaining tissue can be lifted and tightened.

    If your areolas are overly large, Dr. Courtney will also reshape and reduce them to be better proportioned. He can also reposition them into a forward-facing, centered position when needed. Finally, he will close the incisions using dissolvable sutures and use a compression garment to help reduce swelling and aid with comfort. No matter which surgical technique he chooses, Dr. Courtney does everything he can to minimize the visibility of scars, ensure healthy blood flow, and create a more youthful breast shape and position.

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    What Are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?

    For patients who are experiencing sagging breasts and/or breast deflation, a breast lift procedure helps renew the youthful shape and bounce. Depending on the unique needs and aesthetic goals of the patient, a breast lift can help provide the following benefits:

    • Youthful breast projection
    • Lifted, perky breasts
    • Reduced areolae 
    • Firmer, rounder breasts
    • Better breast proportion and symmetry 
    • An attractively upward tilt of the nipples 
    • A tighter contour
    • Better cleavage
    • Eliminated excess skin 
    • A better fit in clothing and a wider selection of bras
    • Renews the breasts after nursing and pregnancy or weight loss
    • Improves self-confidence 

    Breast Lift: Your Custom Procedure

    Practicing in Houston, TX, at one of the largest plastic surgery practices in the country, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Courtney, a breast plastic surgeon in Houston, is dedicated to achieving results that improve your self-image and boost your confidence.

    To have your breast lift questions answered, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Courtney today.

    Breast Lift with Dr. Courtney

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    Who is a Breast Lift Candidate?

    Your breasts are a beautiful aspect of the feminine figure, but they can change over time due to age, pregnancy, childbirth, or changes in weight. If you would like to restore the firm, round, perky look of youthful breasts, you may be a good candidate for a custom breast lift.

    Even younger women may feel a lack of confidence due to the appearance of their breasts. Some breast qualities are inherited and may inhibit feelings of self-worth. Whether you have any of the following concerns, a breast lift could be the ideal procedure for you:

    • Uneven breasts
    • Feel your nipples are too large or too low on the breast mound
    • Believe your breasts look saggy
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    Breast Lift Consultation

    Dr. Courtney will ensure that you thoroughly understand the procedure, any risks, the predicted recovery time, activity limitations, and what to expect. He welcomes any questions you have and will answer them honestly and thoroughly. Dr. Courtney focuses on patient safety and will speak with you about every aspect of the procedure, so we ask that you please allow an hour to an hour and a half for your initial consultation. Some of the subjects that will be covered include:

    • Your overall health: You must be in overall good health and ready to discuss any medical conditions and medications you take, including over-the-counter medicines. Before surgery, you must avoid aspirins and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for at least one week prior and one week after surgery. Some supplements that have blood-thinning properties must be stopped during that time.
    • Alcohol and tobacco use: We want your surgery to be safe and produce the look you want. For added safety, we ask that you avoid smoking and consuming alcohol for four weeks leading up to and after surgery.
    • Weight: You should be close to your goal weight before undergoing a breast lift.
    • Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes from pregnancy can affect the size and shape of your breasts. Dr. Courtney will ask how recently you had children and whether you plan for more. Breast lift surgery can be performed six months after ending breastfeeding your baby.
    • Your expectations: A breast lift does not replace lost volume or increase the size of your breasts. Many women choose to combine a breast lift with breast augmentation — either with breast implants or via a fat transfer — to achieve the ultimate in feminine appeal.
    Real Patient

    I got a breast lift with implants and I will say I couldn’t be happier, I love my results. My experience was amazing. I was nervous of getting the procedure done because I didn’t want to have the scars but I’m 6 weeks out and my scars are barley noticeable. Definitely recommend dr. Courtney!

    A.P.

    Breast Lift and Breastfeeding

    Women who would like to be able to breastfeed after having a breast lift or breast augmentation may have a concern about whether they should wait to have breast surgery until they are done having children. However, a breast lift or breast augmentation should not affect the ability to breastfeed. 

    During a breast lift, the skin and tissues lifted are not the breast ducts and mammary glands–these parts of the breast are not impacted. As it is the breast ducts and mammary glands that are required for breastfeeding, the ability to breastfeed is preserved. 

    However, a breast lift may have an effect on milk secretion, as the surgery can decrease the sensitivity in the nipple and breast. This may dampen the amount of milk secreted during nursing, as milk secretion is stimulated by the sucking sensation of the newborn child.

    Breast Lift: Types of Incision Techniques

    There are several different approaches to a breast lift, with varying incision techniques. After your consultation, Dr. Courtney will be able to determine the ideal incision method for you based on your breast tissue and the amount of excess skin. The goal is to achieve the most attractive look with the least amount of scarring.

    Crescent Lift

    This technique corrects minimal sagging involving a small incision running halfway around the top edge of the areola. This technique is often combined with a breast augmentation.

    Periareolar or Donut Lift

    Ideal for women with limited excess skin, this breast lift technique consists of a circular incision around the edge of the areola. This incision is commonly performed in conjunction with breast augmentation, with any scars virtually undetectable. This incision technique can also reduce the size of your areola.

    Vertical or Lollipop Lift

    The lollipop lift corrects moderate sagging and provides more extensive reshaping. This type of lift involves two incisions: one around the edge of the areola, and another running vertically from the bottom of the areola to the crease under the breast, known as the “inframammary fold” (IMF). The circle around the nipple and the vertical incision make a lollipop shape, hence the name. This incision placement allows for thorough recontouring of the breast and removal of excess skin, with scars that are invisible when wearing low-cut tops, bathing suits, or bras.

    Inverted T or Anchor Lift

    This is the most commonly used technique. An anchor lift typically achieves the most attractive outcome. This method involves three incisions: one around the edge of the areola; one vertically from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold, and then horizontally along the fold. This technique is excellent for women who want a breast reduction with a lift. The scars fade to being barely visible, and are invisible when wearing a bra, plunging neckline, or a bikini top. This lift is most often performed by Dr. Courtney.

    Breast Lift Recovery Tips

    • Make sure your living space is well-prepared: When you come home from surgery, you want to make sure you have everything you need at your fingertips, including medications, food and water, reading materials and movies, towels, and other household items. Preparing your space ahead of time can help make your healing journey stress-free.
    • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: To optimize your healing process, it's essential to avoid smoking and alcohol. Smoking can make it much harder for your incisions to heal, and alcohol can thin the blood. Instead, hydrate with water and include many healthy fruits and veggies as you heal.
    • Wear your compression garment: Compression garments can reduce swelling and keep your new breasts in pristine shape. You may need to wear one continuously for the first few weeks. Then, a soft, comfortable bra will replace it.
    • Stay in contact with your surgeon: Aftercare is essential for proper healing. Don't be afraid to call your surgeon and ask questions if you have any concerns or are experiencing complications. Make sure to attend all your scheduled visits so your medical team can assess your progress and ensure your recovery remains on track.
    • Be careful with your incisions: To protect your incisions after surgery, you must keep them clean, dry, and covered. Abstain from showering for the first few days and do a light sponge bath. When you resume showers, point the water stream away from your chest. Pat your incisions dry and do not disturb any scabs that may form in the treatment area. The scabs are there to shield your wounds, so leave them alone.
    • Take gentle walks: While you may have to postpone vigorous exercise for 4-6 weeks, you can still be active in the early stages of your recovery. Take gentle walks to boost circulation, prevent complications, and elevate mood.
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    Breast Lift: Combining With Other Procedures

    Breast Lift with Augmentation

    While a breast lift will significantly improve the shape and position of sagging breasts, it does not treat loss of volume. Many women combine a breast lift with an augmentation to achieve the desired fullness for a more appealing, sexy figure. The breast augmentation can be performed with saline or silicone implants, or with natural fat transfer. Dr. Courtney listens closely to your concerns and helps you determine the implant type (if needed) and most appropriate size given your personal aesthetic goals. With the help of the Vectra XT 3D Imaging technology, you will have a real-world concept about the final look of your breasts.

    Learn About Breast Lift with Implants

    Breast Reduction with Lift

    On the other hand, women looking for a slimmer figure may want a breast reduction while undergoing their breast lift. Some may find that their breasts are too heavy and dense, causing discomfort in their upper back. During this combined procedure, Dr. Courtney will remove additional tissue to establish the desired size while lifting and reshaping the breast tissue and areola, using the same incisions.

    Learn about breast reduction with lift

    Mommy Makeover

    Finally, your breast lift could be a part of your comprehensive mommy makeover, a combination of procedures designed to create a youthful, slim, trim figure with lovely breasts. The goal is to restore your pre-baby body and may include a breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, vaginal rejuvenation, and various non-surgical treatments for the ultimate result.

    Learn about mommy makeover

    Breast Lift Cost

    Breast lift surgery in Houston usually runs between $10,000 and $13,500, depending on the extent of the work performed and on whether any other treatments (such as breast augmentation) are undergone in tandem. Pricing will include surgeon’s fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and others. We can provide you with a detailed quote for services at the time of your confidential consultation. Financing is also available.

    Dr. Courtney: Board-Certified Experience

    With his aesthetic eye, meticulous attention to detail, and years of training, Dr. Courtney’s surgical precision and technical skills offer patients newfound confidence in their appearance. Serving the greater Houston area as Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Courtney is dedicated to understanding and attaining the personal cosmetic goals of his patients. With his warm, caring nature, he particularly enjoys being part of each patient’s journey and is honored to be a partner in boosting self-confidence.

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    Breast Lift FAQs:

    How long do breast lifts last?

    Mastopexy results can last up to 10 years on average if the surgery is performed in one’s younger years. As the body ages, the skin loses its elasticity, which can affect the longevity of your outcome. If you undergo a breast lift in your 60’s for instance, the results may last for more like 5-7 years.

    Will I experience any discomfort? If so, how long would the pain last?

    You may experience some discomfort after a breast lift, which is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients find that the pain significantly decreases within the first few days and continues to improve over the next week or two, with any residual soreness resolving within a few weeks.

    When can I go back to work?

    Most clients can return to work within a few weeks, provided their job is not physically demanding in any way. It’s important to wait 4-6 weeks before resuming strenuous activities that might put pressure on the chest and compromise your aesthetic outcome

    What about scarring from breast lift surgery?

    Scarring can be minimized through a conservative, meticulous surgical approach, but anytime you have incisions, there will be scars to contend with. Incisions can be placed in areas where they are inconspicuous, such as within the breast creases, within the armpits, or around the areolas. Scars typically fade with time, and they can be further minimized with medical-grade scar creams provided by Dr. Courtney.

    Will I experience nipple sensitivity changes?

    Loss of sensation in the nipples is usually a temporary side effect of breast surgery, caused by disruption of the nerves encircling the areolas. Patients typically find that full feeling returns within a few months after their mastopexy.

    Will a breast lift reduce my breast size?

    A breast lift primarily reshapes and lifts the breasts, but some volume may appear reduced due to removal of excess skin and repositioning.

    Can a breast lift fix stretched areolas?

    Yes, areolas can be reduced in size and repositioned during a breast lift to better match the new breast shape.

    Is breastfeeding still possible after a breast lift?

    While many women can still breastfeed after a lift, it depends on the surgical technique used. Discuss this with your surgeon if future breastfeeding is a priority.

    Real People. Real Results.

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