What is a breast lift? Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, removes excess and sagging tissue from the breasts. This tissue usually develops as a result of massive weight loss, breastfeeding, or even the effects of gravity over time. As a mother of five, Dr. Cara Downey understands these aesthetic concerns’ impact on the body. Her goal as one of the leading plastic surgeons in Houston is to restore her patient’s breasts and nipple projection for a more youthful, natural-looking profile. Dr. Downey’s and Dr. Bullocks’ attention to detail and exceptional patient care has allowed them to perform more than 100 successful breast lift procedures at Heights Plastic Surgery.
How much does a breast lift cost in Houston? The average cost of a breast lift in Houston typically ranges from $4,000 to $12,000. The total cost for your breast lift will depend on factors such as your surgeon’s fee, the location of your procedure, and other miscellaneous medical expenses. At Heights Plastic Surgery, we accept cash and all major credit cards. We are also happy to offer financing through CareCredit® for patients. Because a breast lift is typically more about the cosmetic appearance of the breast, it is rarely a medical necessity. As a result, it is not covered by insurance.
Am I a good candidate for a breast lift? Good candidates for a breast lift are patients who are in good general health. Women above the age of 40 or those with a significant family history of breast cancer must have a mammogram before surgery. Additionally, women who experience irregularities such as nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or lumps will also need to undergo screening tests to ensure their safety. Ideal candidates for a breast lift experience any of the following concerns: Sagging breast skin Deflated breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and massive weight loss Low-lying nipples Breast asymmetry
How do I prepare for my breast lift? To prepare for your breast lift, Dr. Downey and Dr. Bullocks suggest that a healthy diet is a must in the weeks leading up to surgery. Maintaining a healthy diet will aid in your recovery process post-surgery. It is also essential to refrain from smoking for about four to eight weeks before and after surgery to avoid the risk of complications.
How does a breast lift work? A breast lift is an outpatient procedure typically takes about two to four hours to complete. To begin, your provider will administer general anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout your surgery. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will then raise your breasts and reposition their tissues, skin, nipples, and areolas to a higher position on the chest wall. The nipples will be kept intact and remain connected to the breast. Breast implants may be inserted after Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks has sculpted your breasts to their new shape and contour. After the incisions are closed, they will protect the treatment areas with a supportive bra and surgical dressings. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks may use any of the following techniques to lift and re-contour your breasts during your mastopexy: Classic Anchor Lift (WISE Pattern). We recommend this technique for women with a large amount of excess skin. We will make an incision around the nipple, and a vertical line will then extend downwards to the breast fold across the underside of the breast. Lollipop Lift. This technique is ideal for women with minimal excess skin. A smaller incision will be made around the nipple, extending downwards towards the base of the breast. Peri-Areolar Lift. If the breast mound is already in a good position, we will reposition the nipple with minimal tightening. In most cases, the incision is only limited to the areola’s circumference.
What does recovery after breast lift look like? For the first 24 hours following your breast lift, it is normal to experience moderate chest pain and nausea due to the anesthesia used during surgery. You may also remove your surgical dressings and tubes 48 hours after surgery. After two to three days following your breast lift, you may resume showering as normal. We recommend avoiding the use of narcotic pain medication after three days. Within two weeks, you may return to work and resume low-impact daily activities and exercises, provided your breasts are supported. At this time, most of your pain and soreness will begin to subside. About 6 to 8 weeks following surgery, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will suggest you remove your compression garments and start to wear normal bras again. We recommend seeking out bras that do not have an underwire, as an underwire may irritate your scars. At this time, you may resume normal activities and workout routines without hesitation. Within about six months following your procedure, your breast lift scars will begin to fade, and your breasts’ final shape will begin to settle.
