Breast Lift
What is a Breast Lift?
This procedure raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning nipples and remaining tissue. Breast augmentation utilizing either saline or silicone gel filled implants is commonly used in conjunction with breast lift surgery (mastopexy). The implant restores lost volume to the breast filling out the upper portion of the breast. Generally there is less scarring if an implant is utilized because the implant itself adds “lift” to the breast. Patients generally have several options when considering breast lift surgery depending on their needs and expectations. Dr. Bradley specializes in the “short scar” technique which minimizes visible scarring. Dr. Bradley will discuss all of your options during your consultation and explain why one option may be better suited to your needs.
Am I a candidate for this procedure?
The best candidate for this procedure must have realistic expectations. The procedure works best with women who have moderate-sized, sagging breasts with good skin quality (without excessive amount of stretch marks). For a private consultation, please call Dr. Bradley at (954) 446-6464.
Meet Timothy Bradley, M.D.
Learn more about Dr. Timothy Bradley and why you should choose him for your next aesthetic procedure in the South Florida area!
How long does the procedure take to perform?
The procedure lasts 2 to 3 hours depending on the the amount of surgery required. There are several techniques which Dr. Bradley can offer patients depending on their unique needs.
How do I prepare for surgery?
Dr. Bradley will give you guidelines on drinking and eating and on avoiding certain medications/vitamins, herbal supplements, and smoking. Current smokers are NOT candidates for most mastopexy surgical techniques. Patients must stop smoking for a minimum of three weeks before and after surgery to prevent wound healing complications and possible skin loss. Make sure you have someone to drive you home after the procedure.
What does surgery involve?
Dr. Bradley will make an incision around the nipple. The excess skin will be removed, and the nipple and areola will be moved up. Depending on the patient’s needs, sometimes the incision must extend down the front of the breast. Dr. Bradley avoids the inverted “T” scar on most patients by utilizing short scar mastopexy techniques. If the breast tissue has to be sutured to reshape the breast, the suturing is usually performed inside of the breast thereby avoiding the longer scarring associated with other mastopexy techniques. If breast augmentation is used in conjunction with breast lift surgery, the incision often times is limited to just above the areola and the scarring is limited and generally inconspicuous.
Will I spend the night in your facility or be released after surgery?
No. The procedure will be done outpatient and you will be released shortly after the surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to book your procedure with Dr. Timothy Bradley? Contact us today to set up your consultation and begin your journey towards a new you!
When can I return to my normal lifestyle?
You will be up and around, and able to return to work within a few days. Dr. Bradley will give you specific guidelines for resuming your normal lifestyle.
Will I need a follow-up visit?
With every procedure, Dr. Bradley strives to provide personal follow-up visits to monitor your progress and answer any post-operative questions.
Breast Lift FAQs
Can a Breast Lift be combined with Breast Augmentation?
Yes. Many of our Coconut Creek patients choose to combine a breast lift with a breast augmentation to increase volume and eliminate excess fat, skin, and elevate their breasts. We can discuss this option in detail during your consultation.
How Long Do Breast Lift Results Last?
The results of breast lift surgery are long-lasting. Although the procedure does not stop the effects of aging, the benefits can be enjoyed for many years. To maintain the best results, a healthy lifestyle and staying at your optimal weight will allow your breasts to look their best even longer.
What can I expect after a breast lift?
Most women find that a breast lift resolves excess skin and fat tissues on the side of the chest and under the arms. This allows more comfort when wearing tight outfits, and your bra will fit better as well. Many patients love their new breasts, saying they look more lifted, youthful, and shapelier.
What about scarring?
As with all surgeries, cosmetic or otherwise, a breast lift includes the risk of scarring. The different types of incision techniques will determine where and how long the scar will be. For example, a periareolar incision will camouflage any visible scaring withing the dark pigment surrounding the nipple (the areola). Other techniques will hide the scars as well either under the breast crease or within the folds of the armpit.
Explain the recovery process?
We ask that you bring a responsible adult with you to drive you home after surgery, so plan to miss two to three days of work. The pain is very tolerable, and we will prescribe medications to manage any discomfort.
Wearing a compression garment after surgery will support your incisions and breasts during recovery. We ask that you refrain from exercise for six weeks. During your recovery, it is essential to sleep on your side or back. Unlike some breast surgeries, drain tubes are not necessary after a mastopexy.