A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, will lift the breasts to a perkier, more compact and higher position on the chest, as well as reshape the breasts for a more youthful overall form. The ideal candidate for a breast lift alone (without an implant) is a woman who is truly “happy in a bra” without any padding and who wishes to have the effect of wearing a mildly supportive bra, without needing to wear one!

What does a breast lift do to the breasts?

Mastopexy surgery reshapes the breasts, lifts the nipples to a higher position, corrects drooping, and creates a less saggy breast shape. In addition, it often reduces the diameter of the areolar circle. The results can be natural-looking and more youthful appearing breasts that remain proportional to a woman’s frame while also fitting her body’s curves.

Will a breast lift make my breasts fuller or just lifted?

While a breast lift will elevate the breasts for a rejuvenated aesthetic, it will not add volume or size to the breasts. In fact, after a mastopexy, women often say their breasts feel somewhat smaller, although the volume has not actually changed. This is likely due to the removal of excess skin and a higher, more compact positioning of their breasts on the chest. However, unlike a breast reduction (which also lifts the breasts), a mastopexy does not actually remove any breast tissue.

What is actually done in a breast lift?

During a mastopexy, the breast substance itself is actually rearranged (like origami) so that the breast assumes a more pleasing shape that is perkier and more youthful. Vital connections between the breast glands and the milk ducts, blood vessels, and sensory nerves that travel to the nipple are maintained so that the two functions of the breast – ability to breastfeed a baby and erogenous sensation to the nipple – are still possible following a mastopexy. The outcome after a breast lift will generally still be a teardrop profile that looks and feels completely natural.

– Dr. Karen Horton, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

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For more information about breast lift surgery, or if you are interested in scheduling a consultation with Dr. Horton, please call 415-923-3067 or complete our online contact us form today.