Breasts change shape over time due to weight fluctuation, breastfeeding, loss of density with aging, and the effects of gravity. A breast lift procedure, also known as a mastopexy, can surgically elevate and firm sagging breasts to restore a more youthful contour and projection of the breasts. The result of breast lift surgery is a more pleasing silhouette that can boost confidence and self-esteem.

At North Charlotte Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, our patients generally seek breast lifts to achieve firmer, better positioned breasts that will restore a shapely appearance. We offer patients in the Huntersville, Lake Norman, and Charlotte area a variety of breast lift options. Sometimes the breasts are reduced in size and sometime the procedure is done with an implant to enlarge the overall size. Many patients are happy with their current size and simply desire a more lifted or “perky” appearance. The procedure can also correct asymmetries with size or nipple position.

What is a breast lift procedure like?

There are a variety of surgical techniques used to lift the breasts. The method used will depend on many factors, including the position of the nipple, the existing breast volume, the skin laxity, skin quality, and the patient’s individual goals. The incision locations will vary depending on the technique used.

When skin laxity is excessive or the nipple position is very low, most patients will require a procedure that utilizes incisions around the areola, along the underneath crease of the breast, and in a vertical line extending from the bottom of the areola to the inframammary fold. Some people refer to this procedure as a traditional mastopexy, or full breast lift. This technique will fully lift and reshape the breasts because it offers the maximum versatility to manipulate breast tissue, remove excess skin, and support the breast.

A vertical breast lift aims to reduce scarring by utilizing fewer incisions to achieve the desired result. This procedure is very effective for many patients who do not have significant drooping of their breasts and need a more moderate lift. This procedure, also called a circumvertical lift, has an incision that goes around the areola and extends down to the inframammary fold. This gives a “lollipop” shaped incision. In a circumareolar lift the incision is made in a circular fashion around the areola. This technique is reserved for patients who have only mild breast ptosis (sagging) and is most commonly used with a small implant. A periareolar lift is a crescent shaped incision at the areola that allows for slight nipple reposition. This is mainly used to correct slight nipple position asymmetry by repositioning of the lower areola to a higher position. This technique does not reposition drooping breast tissue. All of these techniques can have pleasing results with scarring that typically heals very well and is minimally perceptible after the scars fade.

While a breast lift offers the appearance of increased volume by repositioning existing breast tissue, many patients choose to undergo a breast augmentation in addition to their breast lift procedure to further enhance their size. The addition of breast implants helps to increase the firmness and fullness of the natural breast with aesthetically pleasing results. There are some limitations on how large of an implant can be placed, however this limit is usually much larger than the typical patient desires.

If you are interested in improving the firmness and position of your breasts with a breast lift or a breast lift in conjunction with a breast augmentation, call our office to discuss the procedure and to set-up a consultation. We are eager to answer any questions you may have about your surgical options to help prepare you for your consultation appointment.

If you are in the Charlotte, Cornelius, Huntersville or the Davidson area set-up a consultation by calling us at (704) 896-5556.