Restore a perkier, more youthful breast position.
A breast lift raises the breast and nipple to a more youthful position. This procedure is ideal for correcting sagging caused by pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or aging, often restoring the breast profile you had years ago.
InquireMastopexy technique is selected based on the degree of ptosis. Minor ptosis is addressed with a periareolar (donut) technique, while moderate ptosis requires a vertical (lollipop) incision. Significant ptosis requires a full Wise pattern (anchor) approach. Regardless of technique, the nipple-areolar complex is elevated on a well-vascularized pedicle, most commonly a medial or superomedial pedicle, to preserve sensation and lactation potential. Breast parenchyma is reshaped and secured internally with absorbable sutures to create a durable internal brassiere effect. Excess skin is resected and the remaining envelope is redraped to complete the lift.
A breast lift is a good fit for women who like their breast volume but want the breast and nipple sitting higher. This is common in women whose breast shape and position have been altered by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuation, or natural aging-related loss of skin elasticity. Stable weight, non-smoking status, and overall good health are important criteria. Women desiring additional volume should discuss augmentation with lift.
Following mastopexy, patients wear a supportive surgical bra continuously for three to four weeks. Significant swelling and bruising typically resolve within two weeks. Most patients comfortably return to desk work within ten to fourteen days. Overhead activities, lifting more than ten pounds, and high-impact exercise are restricted for six weeks. Scars begin to fade over six to eighteen months; silicone sheeting and sun protection are strongly recommended during scar maturation.
Surgical bra worn at all times. Drains managed if placed. Significant swelling and bruising expected; managed with medication and light activity.
Most patients return to desk work. Swelling diminishes substantially. Sutures dissolve or are removed.
Light lower body exercise permitted. Lifting and overhead movements still restricted.
Full activity resumed. Scars continue maturing over 12–18 months. Final breast shape fully evident.
Mastopexy carries inherent risks including permanent visible scarring in periareolar, vertical, and sometimes inframammary locations. Temporary or permanent changes in nipple-areolar sensation are possible. Asymmetry, delayed wound healing, and rare cases of partial or complete nipple-areolar complex compromise may occur. Pregnancy or significant weight changes after mastopexy can alter results. These risks are carefully discussed during preoperative consultation.
Women who also desire more fullness should consider augmentation with lift, as a mastopexy alone will not increase breast volume. Patients with borderline ptosis and adequate volume may be candidates for an implant alone which can create the appearance of mild lifting. Non-surgical skin-tightening devices offer no meaningful correction of true breast ptosis.
Performed by Dr. Ruben Castro in Newport Beach, California