As the years pass, it is common for women to experience changes in the size, shape, position and feel of their breasts. Gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight changes can cause the breasts to sag and sit lower on the chest. The nipples may begin to point downward instead of forward, and the breasts may take on an overall old appearance. To restore a more youthful appearance, a breast lift is often a good solution. During a breast lift, the breasts are reshaped and lifted to restore their natural appearance. Just as there are numerous issues that lead a woman to seek out a breast lift, there are numerous types of breast lift procedures to choose from.
Traditional Breast Lift
In a traditional breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, scarring can be prominent, but the procedure is very effective in correcting severe drooping. Incisions are generally made in a anchor pattern with an incision going around the areola then vertically to the breast crease and horizontally along the crease. Of all breast lift techniques, this provides the most dramatic results in patients who would not respond well to less invasive or less aggressive techniques.
“I had a breast lift performed by Dr. Schlechter. He did an amazing job, and I am very pleased. I would highly recommend this physician and the practice to anyone considering cosmetic surgery.” – TB
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Circumareolar Breast Lift
In cases where minor to moderate lifting is needed, a circumareolar breast lift is often a good choice. Also known as a donut lift, this procedure involves only making an incision around the perimeter of the areola. The overall size of the areola is reduced, and it is repositioned to a higher position on the breast. Excess skin is removed, and, in many cases, implants are placed in the breast at the same time. Sutures are placed along the outer edge of the areola, making scarring virtually undetectable.
Crescent Breast Lift
In a crescent breast lift, your surgeon makes a small incision along the upper edge of the areola. A crescent shaped section of skin is carefully removed from above the incision, and the remaining skin is sutured in place at the areola. While this technique is only appropriate for correcting very mild sagging, it is a desirable choice because it causes very minimal scarring.
Vertical Breast Lift
This type of breast lift is the same as a traditional breast lift minus the horizontal scar under the breast. This type of breast lift is beneficial for women who have a mild to moderate degree of sagging.
Which Option is Right For Me?
The best option to meet your particular needs varies depending on several factors including your desired results, the amount of sagging you have and the overall condition of your breasts. Your surgeon will help you decide which procedure is best for you.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The cost of your breast lift will depend on your specific anatomy and surgery. Please see our Plastic Surgery Procedure Pricing Guide for more information.
