While breast size can play a role in overall appearance, the position and shape of the breasts are often just as important. Over time, factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, and the natural aging process can cause the breasts to lose elasticity and begin to sag. Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, is an operation designed to lift and contour breasts that have begun to lose shape and projection due to breast ptosis (sagging/drooping). The treatment can address these concerns by elevating the breasts to a more youthful position while enhancing overall contour and proportion. Breast lift surgery focuses on reshaping existing breast tissue rather than significantly altering size, although it can be combined with other procedures when additional volume or reduction is desired.
Dr. Stephen A. Schantz and Dr. J. Brad Turner are skilled plastic surgeons here at Waldman Schantz Turner Plastic Surgery and Skin Care who are experienced with advanced breast lift techniques capable of rejuvenating the breasts with results that look both beautiful and natural. If you would like to speak with one of our doctors to determine whether this popular procedure is right for your needs and goals, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a firmer, more youthful contour and improved breast symmetry.
CANDIDATES: Typically ideal for women experiencing breast ptosis due to aging, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or genetics who want a lifted, more proportional appearance.
PROCEDURE: A highly customized surgical approach that removes excess skin, repositions the nipple-areolar complex, and reshapes the breast tissue for natural-looking results.
RECOVERY: Most patients return to light activities within about a week, with continued improvement as swelling subsides over the following weeks.
SURGEONS: Procedures are performed by one of our experienced plastic surgeons at Waldman Schantz Turner Plastic Surgery and Skin Care in Lexington, Dr. Stephen A. Schantz or Dr. J. Brad Turner. Our doctors emphasize precision, safety, and aesthetically balanced, natural-looking outcomes.
Breast lift surgery offers a range of aesthetic and confidence-related benefits for women seeking to restore a more youthful breast appearance.
Key benefits may include:
For many patients, the results of a breast lift extend beyond physical changes, contributing to increased self-confidence and comfort in their appearance.
Women who have sagging breasts due to past pregnancies, weight loss, genetics or aging and desire significant improvement in the shape and contour of the breasts are often good candidates for a breast lift. In addition to experiencing sagging or loss of breast shape, ideal candidates are typically those who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of surgery. Many women seek a breast lift when they notice that their nipples have begun to point downward or sit below the natural breast crease. Others may feel that their breasts appear deflated or uneven. A consultation allows our plastic surgeon to evaluate skin quality, breast structure, and aesthetic goals to determine whether a breast lift is the best option to achieve the desired result.
Yes, we use both saline and silicone implants when necessary to provide more breast volume and fullness in the upper aspect of the breast. A breast lift surgery alone may not achieve the desired look, so a breast lift with implants may be recommended when appropriate. In some cases, women seeking to address excess breast skin may require a breast reduction and lift. Our plastic surgeon will advise you on the most ideal treatment plan based on your needs and goals.
Each breast lift procedure is carefully tailored to the patient’s anatomy and degree of sagging. In addition to removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple-areolar complex, underlying breast tissue is often reshaped and supported internally to help maintain long-term results. The choice of incision pattern depends on the extent of correction needed. The design of the incisions can vary, but usually include incisions around the nipple-areolar complex and in the crease under the breast. Other incision techniques may include a vertical lift “lollipop” or a full lift “anchor type.” The nipple-areolar complex is repositioned higher, the excess skin is removed, and the breast is reshaped. Advanced surgical techniques are used to create a natural breast slope and projection while preserving overall breast integrity.
“Dr. Turner and his entire staff have been fantastic throughout my surgery process. I am 6 months post-op and beyond pleased with my results. ”
While many patients feel well enough to resume light daily activities within 7–10 days, it is important to allow the body adequate time to heal. Swelling, bruising, and mild tightness are common in the early stages and gradually improve over several weeks. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks to support proper healing. Wearing a supportive surgical bra as directed (typically about four weeks) helps maintain breast shape and comfort during recovery. Sutures should dissolve within a few weeks after surgery. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Follow-up visits are an important part of the process to monitor healing and to help ensure optimal results.
Our plastic surgeons perform most mastopexy operations as outpatient procedures in our fully-accredited in-office surgical facility using local anesthesia and intravenous sedation.
“Everyone at Waldman Schantz is very professional and friendly. I have been very pleased with every office visit and with my procedure and the results. I Highly recommend Dr. Schantz to everyone that I speak to about any cosmetic procedures and the entire team is so wonderful! Thank you for making it a great experience!”
All surgery involves risk and potential complications. A thorough discussion of the risks and potential benefits of any procedure is an essential part of the pre-operative consultative process. Our plastic surgeon will go over all aspects of this procedure with you and will be happy to address any concerns you may have.
To learn more about breast lift surgery, or to schedule a consultation at our practice, please contact us today.