What Is a Breast Lift?

While all breasts have a natural degree of “drooping” (or ptosis) to them, sometimes the effects of gravity bring about unfavourable changes in breast appearance. Breasts can become longer and flatter in contour, gradually losing the round, pert shape that most women prefer. Additionally, sometimes breast sagging becomes so pronounced that the nipples begin to point downwards rather than upwards or straight ahead.

Fortunately, women who face these concerns can often benefit from breast lift surgery. Typically involving the reduction of excess tissue and revision of the areolas, a professional breast lift surgery (or “mastopexy”) can address sagging breasts, asymmetry and other aesthetic concerns that can stem from pregnancy, weight fluctuations, age and additional factors.

At ICLS, Dr. Julie Khanna – our board-certified plastic surgeon – understands the individualistic nature of cosmetic breast surgery. She is passionate about helping patients obtain a bustline or breast silhouette they love.

Do I Need a Breast Lift?

Breast lift surgery is generally ideal for patients who desire firmer, “perkier” breasts or wish to alter their breasts to produce a more flattering position on the chest wall. Most women who have developed ptosis can be eligible for breast lift surgery, as long as they are in reasonably good health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.

In the hands of an experienced surgeon like Dr. Khanna, breast lift surgery is very versatile and can be combined with other surgeries to produce comprehensive aesthetic effects. In addition to alternative breast procedures (e.g. breast augmentation), mastopexy can be combined with our unique skin tightening procedure to improve the remaining breast tissue while reducing skin excision and scarring.

Should I Get a Breast Lift with Implants?

It is very common for patients to undergo breast augmentation with mastopexy. When performed together, these surgeries can simultaneously enhance symmetry, shape, positioning and upper pole fullness. Breast lift surgery can cause the breasts to lose a small degree of volume, but the use of implants or fat transfer can replenish this fullness.

Generally, fat transfer is better suited for patients who desire a more subtle increase in volume, whereas implants are usually more ideal for those who want a more dramatic augmentation. No matter your unique aesthetic goals, Dr. Khanna can work with you to build a customized plan for your breast enhancement surgery.

What Can I Expect in the Breast Lift Procedure?

Mastopexy surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, and can take approximately one to two hours to perform. After measurements are taken, our surgeon will discuss the variables that can affect which technique will be performed. Some of these variables are the size and shape of the breast, the condition of the skin, age and whether or not an implant is being inserted during surgery.

What Kind of Incisions Are Used for Breast Lift Surgery?

There are three different types of breast lift incisions that can be made depending on the severity of the breast laxity:

  • The “benelli” incision, which is made around the areola only. The excess tissue is removed, and in some cases the areola size can also be reduced. The skin is then drawn together and closed; the idea is similar to a drawstring.
  • The “lollipop” incision, made around the areola and down the front of the breast, in one line, to the inframammary crease. Again, the excess tissue is removed, and the areola size can also be reduced at this time if need be. The incision is then closed, and the scarring should take the form of a “lollipop” outline. Approximately 90% of patients will require this technique.
  • The full mastopexy, which involves an incision similar to the lollipop, but an additional incision is made from right to left slightly above the crease of the breast. This incision looks similar to an anchor. This technique is usually used on a patient who has very ptotic or sagging breasts, as there tends to be more tissue to remove in this case.

What Does Breast Lift Recovery Involve?

The full recovery for mastopexy is between four to six weeks, though most patients are able to resume daily activities within one or two weeks. Following surgery, patients will have gauze dressings, and must wear a surgical bra.

In most cases, the breasts may be swollen and bruised, but any discomfort can usually be controlled with pain medications prescribed by our surgeon. The sutures used are dissolvable and therefore do not have to be removed, though they may be trimmed in the days after surgery if necessary. No heavy lifting or strenuous activities are allowed for a minimum of four to six weeks, and patients are advised to closely follow their instructions for aftercare for a safe, speedy recovery.

How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?

Patients should be aware that while mastopexy can provide a significant lift and add firmness that lasts for quite a few years, the results typically do not last forever. The effects of time can, again, take their toll, and concerns like pregnancy, aging and weight fluctuations can cause the breasts to sag and the skin to become lax. Patients who have had an implant inserted along with the mastopexy may have a longer-lasting result; however, to maintain the effects of surgery, Dr. Khanna recommends patients adhere to a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine following the procedure.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?

At ICLS, pricing for a breast lift surgery (or “mastopexy”) begins at $12,300. Please note, however, that the cost often varies based on the techniques being used, whether implants are placed, the addition of other surgeries and other factors.

We always aim to make the financial aspect of care as stress-free as possible for our patients. In addition to accepting all major forms of payment, we work with two third-party companies (iFinance and Beautifi) to help eligible patients finance their care. To learn more about our payment options, please feel free to explore our financial options page or reach out to our team.

Why Choose ICLS for Breast Lift Surgery?

Dr. Khanna and the rest of our dedicated team believe that the decision to undergo breast lift surgery should not be taken lightly. In the interest of our patients’ well-being and happiness, we always advocate that they do thorough research into any prospective surgeon. The physician should have a legitimate educational background, years of training and experience in breast lift surgery and a strong devotion to ethical care.

Our plastic surgeon specializes in all forms of breast reshaping. ICLS is a private facility which is fully accredited with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, and our clinic meets (and, in many aspects, exceeds) the same standards of safety and patient care as those required in a hospital. We view our patients as family and strive to provide not only unmatchable surgical results, but a warm and welcoming experience throughout their visit.

For more information about breast lift surgery, contact ICLS today!

Before and After

Patient A - 1 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

Patient A - 2 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

One year post-mastopexy

Patient B - 1 of 2
5 months post-mastopexy

Patient B - 2 of 2
5 months post-mastopexy

Patient C - 1 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

Patient C - 2 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

One year post-mastopexy

Patient D - 1 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

Patient D - 2 of 2
One year post-mastopexy

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Our Specialist

Our plastic surgeons specialize in all forms of breast reshaping. ICLS is a private facility which is fully accredited with the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Our clinic meets and, in many aspects exceeds, the same standards of safety and patient care as those required in a hospital.

Dr Julie Khanna ICLS Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Female Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Julie Khanna

Our internationally-renowned, double board-certified plastic surgeon is considered a leader in breast reshaping, body contouring and facial anti-aging procedures. Combining well-honed surgical skill with a commitment to ethical care, Dr. Julie Khanna looks beyond the procedure to the patient as a whole, from inner self to outer beauty.

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