Breast Lift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Pasadena, CA

Breast Lift Dr. Caroline Min commitment

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is performed to return a youthful shape to breasts that have sagged as a result of weight loss, pregnancy, or the effects of aging and gravity. The breast lift procedure involves removing excess skin, reshaping breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to create a more pleasing contour. Dr. Min will reshape your own tissue to create a rounder, perkier breast shape. The breast tissue at the bottom of the breast can be used to increase fullness in the center and upper pole of the breast, where it is needed the most. The procedure can be done alone or combined with breast augmentation or fat grafting for added firmness and volume. (1)

Dr. Caroline Min employs her skill and expertise to provide beautiful, natural-looking breasts, tailoring the procedure to meet the unique goals of each patient. If you are considering a breast lift, Dr. Min’s commitment to achieving optimal outcomes makes her a trusted choice. Schedule a consultation today by completing our online inquiry form. If you have any further questions, call or text (626) 214-5727 to reach our Pasadena office.

Before and After Photos

Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1708
Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1708
Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1709
Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1709
Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1710
Breast Lift Before & After Patient #1710
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About Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery focuses on enhancing the position and appearance of the breasts by removing excess skin and elevating the breasts. Over time, factors like gravity, aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, genetic predisposition, and hormonal changes can impact the position of the breasts, leading to sagging breasts and droopy nipples. (1)

This procedure can restore youthful contours and improve the position of the breasts on the chest wall. If you have noticed that your breasts have begun to sag, a breast lift may be an ideal solution.

Patients who undergo breast lifts often emerge feeling more confident and comfortable in their bodies. Whether used in combination with breast augmentation or performed independently, a breast lift can significantly enhance one’s self-esteem and body image.

Benefits

Undergoing a breast lift offers numerous aesthetic and emotional benefits. When patients receive personalized treatment from Dr. Min, they typically see results through:

  • Improved breast position: A breast lift elevates the breasts to a higher level on the chest wall.
  • Enhanced shape: The procedure reshapes sagging breasts, restoring a rounder, more youthful contour.
  • Reduction in the size of the areola: For patients with larger areolas, the size can be reduced during the procedure to achieve a more proportionate and balanced appearance.
  • Nipple repositioning: The surgery can move nipples that sit too low on the breast mound to a higher, natural position that aligns with the new breast shape.
  • Better symmetry: Many patients experience improved balance between the size and shape of their breasts after surgery. Differences in breast size or position, such as one breast hanging lower than the other, can often be corrected during the procedure.
  • Ability to go braless: After a breast lift, many patients feel comfortable and confident without always needing a bra.
  • Better clothing fit: Bras, swimsuits, and clothing will fit more comfortably and flatteringly.
  • Increased confidence: Patients often report higher self-esteem and satisfaction with their overall appearance after the procedure.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a breast lift are women whose breasts are sagging due to age, weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or other reasons. Candidates need to be in good physical health, have realistic goals, and refrain from smoking, which can impede healing. If you are over the age of 40 or have a strong family history of breast cancer, a screening mammogram is required. During a consultation, Dr. Min will assess your medical history, physical condition, and desired outcomes to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a breast lift.

Personal Consultation

During your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Min, who will assess your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. The consultation includes a thorough medical history review, a physical examination of the breasts, and a discussion of any concerns you may have. You will explore different lift techniques together based on your preferences and body type.

Dr. Min will explain the benefits and limitations of each option and recommend a personalized treatment plan that meets your aesthetic objectives. This meeting is crucial for ensuring all your questions are answered before proceeding with surgery.

Preparation

Once you decide to proceed with breast lift surgery, thorough preparation is key to achieving optimal results. Preparation guidelines may include:

  • Ceasing smoking for an adequate period before and after surgery (if applicable).
  • Following any provided dietary guidelines to ensure proper nutrition.
  • Discontinuing blood thinners and certain supplements as directed.
  • Arranging transportation home after the procedure.
  • Clearing your schedule for adequate recovery time, taking into consideration possible time off work and social engagements.

Procedure

Breast lifts are typically performed with the patient under general anesthesia. A breast lift involves removing excess skin, enhancing support, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a higher position. To access the underlying tissues, Dr. Min will make the necessary incisions. (2) The type of incisions she uses will depend on your unique anatomy. Typically, one of three is used:

  • Periareolar (donut), which is around the nipple-areolar complex;
  • Lollipop (vertical), which is around the nipple-areola and extends vertically down to the breast fold.
  • Wise pattern (anchor) incision, which combines the vertical incision with a horizontal incision along the lower fold underneath the breast.

Through these incisions, Dr. Min will remove excess skin and create a stronger foundation for the breasts. In most cases, the nipples will be repositioned to a higher level. (2) The breast tissue itself is also reshaped and shifted higher with the use of specialized techniques and suturing. In some cases, a bioabsorbable mesh such as a P4HB scaffold may be recommended to provide extra support to the breast tissue. The procedure generally takes about three hours, but this can vary depending on the complexity and techniques used.

Recovery

After a breast lift, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Initial recovery time typically spans from one to two weeks. During this phase, patients should avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting, allowing the body time to heal properly. You may be required to wear a special bra during your recovery to reduce swelling and support the new position of the breasts.

Light walking can help to reduce swelling by stimulating blood flow. Dr. Min may prescribe pain management solutions and guide how to care for your incisions to reduce the risk of complications. Most patients find the recovery surprisingly comfortable, with pain being minimal compared to other procedures.

Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor healing progress. Most individuals return to normal daily activities within two weeks, although full recovery may take several months.

Results

Breast Lift Dr. Caroline Min commitment

The results of a breast lift are typically long-lasting, offering restored breast position and firmness. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to the longevity of the results. Patients will enjoy a more youthful contour and improved breast symmetry, which can enhance overall confidence. Healing continues over six months to one year, revealing the full results once swelling dissipates completely and the scars mature..

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

A breast lift can be combined with other procedures, such as breast augmentation or fat grafting, to further enhance results. While a lift repositions and reshapes drooping breasts for a more youthful contour, augmentation adds volume and fullness. With fat grafting, your own body fat is gently harvested from areas with excess and injected into the breasts, creating a natural enhancement while also slimming unwanted fat pockets elsewhere. During the consultation, Dr. Min will carefully assess each patient to determine the most suitable approach, considering factors such as breast shape, size, the extent of sagging, and the patient’s desired outcome.

Breast lifts are also commonly included in personalized mommy makeover treatments. Mommy makeovers are comprehensive procedures that address multiple parts of the body affected by pregnancy and childbirth or weight fluctuations. On average, most women see their breasts grow by at least one cup size during pregnancy and breastfeeding.. Once this weight is lost, the breasts can be left sagging and ptotic, making a breast lift an effective post-pregnancy solution..

Cost of Breast Lifts in Pasadena and Los Angeles

The average cost of a breast lift varies according to individual goals, technique used, facility fees, anesthesia expenses, and surgeon expertise. After you consult with Dr. Min, you will receive a cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan.

To receive your cost estimate and begin planning your breast lift treatment, take a moment to schedule an initial consultation. If you have any further questions, please call our Pasadena office at (626) 214-5727.

FAQ

Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast lift?

Breast lift surgery can affect breastfeeding, as it involves repositioning the nipple-areola complex. While some women can still breastfeed after a lift, others may experience a reduction in milk supply. Discussing your plans for breastfeeding with Dr. Min during the consultation is important.

Will a breast lift leave visible scars?

While breast lift surgery does leave some scars, Dr. Min uses techniques to minimize visibility. Scars typically fade over time, and post-operative scar care instructions are provided to optimize the healing process. Dr. Min will recommend an effective scar cream regimen to help achieve the best scars possible. What is the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction? A breast lift restores the shape and position of the breasts, and typically only breast skin is removed while simultaneously reshaping the breast tissue. A breast reduction decreases the size of the breasts (both skin and breast tissue are removed) while also providing the lifting benefits of a mastopexy.

How long is the recovery period after a breast lift?

Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to return to light activities and work within 1-2 weeks. Strenuous activities such as exercise should be avoided for a longer period, usually up to 4 weeks.

What is a limited scar breast lift, and am I a good candidate?

A limited scar breast lift is a technique that minimizes scarring by utilizing shorter incisions. Dr. Min determines candidacy based on factors such as breast shape, size, and the degree of sagging during the consultation.

Will a breast lift change the size of my breasts?

While a breast lift primarily focuses on lifting and reshaping the breasts, some patients may experience a slight reduction in size due to the removal of excess skin and a more compact shape. If additional volume is desired, it can be addressed by adding a breast implant or fat transfer.

What is an “internal bra” and is it necessary for me?

An internal bra in the context of breast surgery is the use of a bioabsorbable mesh that is used to provide extra internal support to the breast tissue. This technique may be helpful for patients with very sagging breasts, weaker breast tissue, or those who want to maximize the longevity of their lift.  Dr. Min uses poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB), a biocompatible polymer also known as Galaflex mesh, that gradually absorbs over time.  It is important to note that using mesh is not necessary for every patient. Dr. Min will recommend it only if she believes it will significantly enhance the results.

References

  1. Qureshi AA, Myckatyn TM, Tenenbaum MM. Mastopexy and Mastopexy-Augmentation. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2018;38(4):374-384. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjx181
  2. Ramanadham SR, Rose Johnson A. Breast Lift with and without Implant: A Synopsis and Primer for the Plastic Surgeon. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2020;8(10):e3057. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000003057