A breast lift is a highly personal decision and at MercyOne, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our experienced plastic surgeons can help you address concerns such as deflation, asymmetry or changes after pregnancy or weight loss, all with your comfort and confidence in mind.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, lifts and reshapes deflated breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue. The purpose of a breast lift is to restore contour and adjust nipple position. (Note: A breast lift doesn’t change the size of your breasts).
Every woman’s body and goals are unique. Your MercyOne plastic surgeon will discuss the best options to work with your anatomy and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will answer any questions and give you a better understanding of what to expect. The consultation will include:
- Full medical history evaluation
- A physical examination by the surgeon
- A discussion of your goals and options, incisions and potential scarring
- A review of previous patients before and after pictures (patients have given prior consent to share their images)
- Pricing for recommended procedures and explanation of next steps for scheduling your surgery including recovery timeline and support you may need at home for recovery.
Before Surgery
Breast lift surgery is done under general anesthesia. Imaging and any necessary medical clearances are obtained prior to scheduling and lab work is done prior to surgery. This is always to ensure that the patient is in good health. There is a zero tolerance for nicotine for a minimum of 2 months before and after surgery as it has serious consequences for the healing of any large incisions and raises risk of infection.
Recovery after Surgery
You will need a driver to and from your surgery and someone to stay with you that first night after surgery. Your surgeon will see you for a post op visit 1-2 days after surgery.
- While there is no minimum amount of time needed to take off work, you will need to plan to abide by a 20-pound weightlifting restriction for 2 weeks. If your work can accommodate this, then you can go back to work almost immediately; if your work cannot accommodate this, you will need to take 2 weeks off.
- Expect some swelling, bruising and soreness (typically well managed with prescribed pain medication or recommended over the counter options).
- Light activity can be resumed as you feel able. Gentle walks help circulation.
- Patients can shower after surgery but any submerging in bath, pool, lakes or sea should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon. Detailed care instructions are provided to patients at pre and post op appointments to enable a smooth recovery.
- Results are long-lasting, but gravity, aging, pregnancy or significant weight loss can affect breast position.
- Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon will be scheduled as needed after your surgery to aid a smooth recovery.
Does insurance cover breast lifts?
A breast lift is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered under insurance. Our team can help you understand the potential costs and financing options before scheduling your procedure.
Discover tips on how to prepare for plastic surgery
Ready to take the first step?
Begin by booking a consultation with a MercyOne board certified plastic surgeon. During your appointment, your surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your aesthetic and surgical goals and address all questions or concerns.
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