Over time, a woman’s breasts can lose firmness and begin to droop and sag. A breast lift can rejuvenate your figure by lifting and reshaping your breast tissue, creating a more youthful, uplifted, and attractive figure.
If you are considering a breast lift in Huntington Beach, Orange County, Newport Beach, or other California communities, call Orange County Cosmetic Surgery today at 714-379-9777 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Issues Can a Breast Lift Address?
Understanding exactly what a breast lift can accomplish is one of the first steps toward making an educated decision. At Orange County Cosmetic Surgery, patient education is a priority, and Dr. Miller will take time to answer your questions, address your concerns, and explain all your treatment options.
Women typically seek breast lift surgery to correct the following:
- Sagging or uneven breasts
- Drooping nipples
- Stretched areolas
- Asymmetrical breasts
During your free initial consultation, Dr. Miller will help you determine if a breast lift is right for you. In some cases, your breast lift may yield the best results if performed along with another procedure, such as breast augmentation. Dr. Miller will take time to understand your unique goals and recommend a customized treatment plan to best achieve your desired outcome.
Breast Lift Benefits
Breast lift surgery offers several cosmetic and personal benefits. In addition to cosmetic benefits, mastopexy also offers functional advantages. The benefits of breast lifts include:
- Elevated breast profile
- Youthful look
- Pain relief in the neck and back
- Reduced chafing
- Improved confidence
As with other types of cosmetic surgery, breast lifts can provide significant psychological and physical benefits, including a more positive self-image. Mastopexy may also provide expanded wardrobe options for women who feel as if their choices for clothing, bras, and swimsuits are limited by breasts that have started to stretch or sag.
Understanding Different Incision Types
Dr. Miller adapts each breast lift procedure to the unique needs of every patient. Different incisions are used depending on the degree of sagging and excess skin involved. At Orange County Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Miller and his team are dedicated to providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your cosmetic journey.
There are three incision options:
The Anchor Incision
The anchor incision is ideal if you have severe sagging or if you want a breast reduction alongside the breast lift. This technique involves an incision around the areola that extends vertically down to the breast crease and horizontally along the crease. Despite its larger incision pattern, this technique offers the most significant lift.
The Lollipop Incision (Keyhole Lift)
The keyhole incision, also known as the "lollipop" lift, is a great option for moderate sagging and if you don’t plan on having implants. This technique involves an incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease, resulting in moderate scarring.
The Areolar Incision (Donut Lift)
The donut incision, also known as the "periareolar" incision, is recommended if you have mild-to-moderate sagging. This technique involves an incision around the perimeter of the areola only, causing the least scarring. Dr. Miller can also use this technique combined with breast implants for patients with more pronounced sagging.
Once the incision has been made, Dr. Miller lifts and reshapes the breast tissue to reverse the effects of sagging and stretching. In the lollipop and anchor incisions, the nipples and areolae will be relocated to a higher position on the breasts to match the new profile. Dr. Miller often also reduces the size of the areolae. The final step is to trim away excess sagging skin.
If you’ve opted to add augmentation to your breast lift, the surgeon will add the implants at this point. Dr. Miller creates a pocket for the implants and then places them. Because incisions are already made, augmentation with a breast lift doesn’t require any additional incisions.
How Breast Lift Differs from Breast Reduction
While a breast lift focuses on reshaping and lifting the breasts, a breast reduction primarily aims to reduce the size and weight of the breasts, although there are also significant cosmetic benefits that accompany breast reduction surgery. You may benefit from a breast reduction if you experience:
- Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain due to the weight of your breasts
- Difficulty finding clothing that fits comfortably
- Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
- Restricted physical activity due to breast size
When Breast Reduction May Be More Suitable
For individuals experiencing significant physical discomfort or limitations due to the size of their breasts, a breast reduction may be more suitable than a breast lift. It can alleviate the physical strain caused by large, heavy breasts and improve overall quality of life. If you are considering breast surgery but are unsure about the best approach, it is time to consult with an expert. Dr. Miller and his team prioritize patient education and empowerment, ensuring that you have the knowledge to make well-informed decisions about your cosmetic journey.
Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation
A breast lift elevates and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple and areola for a more youthful contour. In contrast, breast augmentation increases the size and enhances the shape of the breasts using implants or fat transfer, ideal for those seeking fuller, more symmetrical breasts. While a breast lift focuses on lifting and firming, augmentation aims to add volume. In some cases, combining both procedures can achieve both lifting and volume enhancement for great results.
Will I Have Significant Scarring After My Surgery?
The visibility of breast lift scars varies based on the type of incision used. While incision lines are permanent, they typically fade and improve over time. Dr. Miller strives to place incisions as inconspicuously as possible while maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.
Your incision healing will depend on the specific technique used, preventive measures against infection, and factors such as nutrition, smoking, hydration, and underlying medical conditions. During your consultation, Dr. Miller will provide complete information about what to expect regarding your incision and scars.
Will Breast and Nipple Sensitivity Be Affected by a Breast Lift?
Breast lifts involve a good deal of repositioning of breast tissue, and this can affect nipple sensation in the short term. The nipples can be either numb or very sensitive. This is because the surgery usually disturbs some of the nerve pathways, but regular sensation returns in all but a very small percentage of patients.
Still, since the areolae are usually repositioned in a breast lift, there is the possibility that some loss of sensation or sensitivity could occur.
Overall breast sensitivity should not be affected. As with the nipples, there may be some temporary loss of sensation, but these issues should resolve as you heal.
Should I Have a Breast Lift if I Might Have Children After?
The goal of a breast lift is to reverse the deflated breasts, stretched skin, and sagging that occurs due to the changes wrought by pregnancy and breastfeeding. A breast lift will return the breasts to a higher position on the chest, and in most cases, the nipples/areolae will be moved.
So, it’s best to wait until you are finished having children to have a breast lift. If you have the procedure and then have another child, it could negate your results. If you get pregnant after you’ve had a lift, your ability to breastfeed could also be impaired due to the movement of the nipples.
What Is Recovery Like After a Breast Lift?
After your surgery with Dr. Miller, your breasts will be covered with gauze, and you’ll be in a surgical support bra. Your breasts will be swollen and bruised for around two weeks. Your incisions will be sore and will remain pink for a few months. There will likely be numbness in your nipples, areolae, and breast skin that can last for up to six weeks. You’ll need to avoid any straining, bending, or lifting that involves your chest for about one month.
You’ll see Dr. Miller for a post-operative checkup after a few days. You’ll wear your surgical support bra for 24 hours a day for three to four days. Then, you’ll switch to a support bra for up to another month. Wearing a strong bra is one of the most important facets of your recovery, as it keeps all pressure off your incisions. This helps them heal in the quickest, most minimally visible way.
Will a Breast Lift Increase the Size of My Breasts?
No. Breast lifts do not increase breast size; breast lifts simply bring the breasts back to a higher position on the chest, hence the “lift” moniker. Breast lifts bring more of the breast mass back to a higher position on the chest, more akin to where it was before sagging and flattening occurred. Breast lifts can actually make you decrease your bra size by one cup. This isn’t because the breasts are smaller; it’s because the breast mass isn’t accumulating at the bottom of the cup.
If you want to increase the size of your breasts, in addition to elevating them, you need to have Dr. Miller place breast implants during your breast lift procedure. This adds volume, especially in the upper breasts. Adding implants during this procedure is actually quite easy, as Dr. Miller can use the incisions he has made for your breast lift to place the implants. Plus, you only have a single recovery period for what, in effect, are two procedures.
How Soon After Breast Lift Surgery Can I Resume My Exercise Routine?
The key to recovery after a breast lift is to keep any pressure off your incisions and to minimize any movement of the breasts. This allows your incisions to heal the most cleanly, which will mean rapidly decreasing the visibility of your scars moving forward.
So, while you will be able to return to low or no-impact activity, such as riding a stationary bike, in just a couple of weeks, any strenuous exercise or any heavy lifting will need to wait for at least six weeks following your surgery. You don’t want to stress your incisions because this allows your scar tissue to reach its maximum strength.
What Are the Risks and Possible Side Effects of Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lifts are major surgery, so they include the typical risks involved with any surgery: bleeding or the formation of a hematoma, reaction to anesthesia, infection, and poor incision healing.
Risks related to breast lifts include:
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation (these usually resolve within a few months)
- Irregularities in breast contour or shape
- Breast asymmetry
- Fluid accumulation
- Possibility of the need for revision surgery
Read What Our Patients Are Saying
"Amazing Dr. Honestly knew he would be my Dr as soon as I met him."
Can I Combine a Breast Lift With Another Procedure?
Dr. Miller often combines a breast lift with augmentation, as discussed above. This is a natural combination of procedures since the lift itself does not return lost volume, it just brings the breast mass back to a higher position on the chest. Adding implants is an easy extension of the procedure and it adds volume, particularly to the upper breast areas.
If you want to address more of the changes in your body caused by pregnancy and breastfeeding, you could opt to have a mommy makeover. A mommy makeover is simply a moniker for a combination of a breast lift (with or without augmentation), a tummy tuck, and liposuction. This combination of surgeries is done in a single surgical session with Dr. Miller.
Am I a Good Candidate for Mastopexy?
There is no single shape for the perfect breast. At Orange County Cosmetic Surgery, we celebrate the individuality of every breast shape and want to help you achieve your ideal figure. Generally speaking, you may be a good candidate for mastopexy if:
- You are in good general health.
- You are at a stable, healthy weight.
- You do not smoke.
- Your breasts sag or droop.
- Your breasts are pendulous or have a flatter, elongated shape.
- Your nipples point downward.
- Your nipples droop below your breast crease when unsupported.
- You have enlarged areolas and stretched breast skin.
- One breast is lower than the other.
The best way to determine if a breast lift or any breast surgery procedure is right for you is to meet personally with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Anthony Miller in a confidential consultation. This important one-on-one meeting is your opportunity to ask Dr. Miller questions and discuss your concerns and breast lift candidacy. The consultation is free of charge and risk-free.
Why Choose Orange County Cosmetic Surgery?
Orange County Cosmetic Surgery, led by Dr. Anthony Miller, offers a full range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures designed to enhance your appearance.
Dr. Miller is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon dedicated to helping patients achieve their desired outcomes safely and effectively. Our team prioritizes patient education, ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions about your cosmetic journey. With a focus on natural-looking results and patient satisfaction, Orange County Cosmetic Surgery is the trusted choice for cosmetic procedures in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Expect During the Consultation Process?
During your consultation at Orange County Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Anthony Miller will begin by discussing your goals and reviewing your medical history. He will then examine your breasts to assess their size, shape, skin quality, and degree of sagging. Based on this assessment, Dr. Miller will personalize recommendations, explaining the best procedures and incision options to achieve your desired results.
Dr. Miller will provide detailed information about the potential risks and benefits and show before-and-after photos of previous patients to give you an idea of the outcomes. He will answer any questions you may have about the procedure, recovery, and costs. Finally, Dr. Miller will outline the next steps, including scheduling the surgery and pre-operative instructions.
Who Is Not a Good Candidate For a Breast Lift?
Breast lifts can help enhance your appearance, but they are not for everyone. There are specific factors that can disqualify you from being a viable candidate for a breast lift.
Below is what can disqualify you from being an ideal candidate for a breast lift:
- You are pregnant.
- You are breastfeeding.
- You are a smoker.
- You have an increased risk of an allergic reaction to the anesthesia.
- You have unrealistic expectations regarding the procedure.
- You are unwilling to follow the doctor’s orders regarding the recovery process.
- You will know if you can undergo a breast lift during your consultation with Dr. Miller.
What Should I Do to Prepare for My Breast Lift?
Preparing for your breast lift surgery involves several important steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Here’s what you should do:
- Medical Evaluation: Have a thorough medical evaluation and any necessary lab tests as recommended by Dr. Miller to ensure you are in good health for surgery.
- Medication Review: Discuss your current medications, supplements, and any allergies with Dr. Miller. You may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quit at least six weeks before surgery to promote better healing and reduce the risk of complications.
- Arrange Transportation: Plan for someone to drive you to and from the surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours post-operation.
- Prepare Your Recovery Area: Set up a comfortable recovery space at home with essentials like pillows, medications, water, snacks, and entertainment. Ensure you have easy access to everything you need to minimize movement.
- Follow Pre-Operative Instructions: Follow all specific instructions provided by Dr. Miller, including guidelines on eating, drinking, and bathing before surgery.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The cost of a breast lift depends on a few factors. The average cost of the procedure itself can be about $6,000. However, that does not count other expenses, such as anesthesia. You also have to consider the provider's rates. Every cosmetic surgeon charges different rates based on the location and the resources used for the operation. You will get a more definitive estimate during your consultation with Dr. Miller.
How Should I Sleep After My Breast Lift?
You will need to sleep on your back or your side for two weeks after your procedure, as you need to keep pressure off your breasts.
What Should I Avoid During Recovery?
Being a surgical operation, you are going to have a recovery period once your breast lift procedure is complete. It can take up to 12 weeks to make a full recovery, but it depends on the patient. As you recover, there are a few things you need to avoid to minimize the risk of complications.
Do not strain yourself, such as excessive stretching and lifting heavy objects. It is also a good idea to refrain from engaging in sexual activity for at least a week after the operation. Try not to sleep on your side, as it can put unnecessary strain on your breasts. Dr. Miller will let you know when you can resume your normal activities, such as showering and exercising.
How Can I Maintain My Breast Lift Results?
Maintaining the results of your breast lift involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices and proper post-operative care. Here are some tips to help you preserve your new look:
- Invest in high-quality, supportive bras that provide ample support, especially during physical activities.
- Aim to maintain a stable, healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Stay hydrated to support skin elasticity and overall health, which can help maintain the firmness of your breasts.
- Use sunscreen to protect your chest area from harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage and affect the elasticity of your breasts.
- Follow all post-operative care instructions provided by Dr. Miller. This includes attending follow-up appointments and avoiding strenuous activities during the initial recovery period.
- If you smoke, consider quitting to promote overall health and optimal outcomes.
Call Dr. Miller for a Breast Lift in Huntington Beach
To learn more about breast lifts and how we can help you, contact us today online or at 714-379-9777 to schedule your free initial consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Anthony Miller. Our state-of-the-art practice serves Huntington Beach, Orange County, Newport Beach, and nearby areas in California.
