The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Breast Lift
in Florida

Changes occur in the breast tissue as we age, gain and lose weight, or go through pregnancy and breastfeeding. The breast tissue and skin becomes “stretched” and loses laxity, resulting in sagging of the breasts, a deflated appearance, and lower nipples. A breast lift (mastopexy) can address these issues. An FSPS member surgeon is uniquely qualified to perform this procedure to improve the appearance of the breasts and help restore a more youthful contour.

breast lift model

Andrew H. Rosenthal, MD, FACS

What is a breast lift?

A breast lift removes excess skin from the breast, repositions the nipple area higher, and also may include reshaping of the internal breast tissue and adding support via various surgical techniques.  The specific techniques and methods can be tailored to the individual patient, depending on each individual’s specific anatomy and goals.  It is most often performed under general or sedation anesthesia, but can be done under local anesthesia for select patients.  It can take one to three hours, depending on the level of correction needed. 

Incision (scar) patterns include a circular incision around the areola (pigmented tissue around the nipple), usually adds a vertical incision from the areola down to the crease below the breast (inframammary fold), and may also add a horizontal incision in the inframammary fold area.  Incision patterns vary with the skin removal needed, with more skin removal resulting in longer incisions.  This procedure is often combined with a breast augmentation to restore volume as well.

Benefits of a Breast Lift

  • Removal of excess sagging skin
  • Stretch marks located within the skin that is removed will therefore also be removed
  • Reshaping of breast tissue
  • Repositioning of the nipple and areola to a higher location
  • More youthful breast appearance
  • Clothing and bathing suits tend to fit better

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Patients with sagging breasts, who are in good health with a stable weight, are ideal candidates for a breast lift. Smoking/vaping/nicotine of any kind should all be avoided. An FSPS surgeon will be able to best advise whether a breast lift will address your concerns.

The Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

Your FSPS member plastic surgeon will review your goals, anatomy, breast and general health history.  Risks, benefits, and alternatives will be discussed.  Your questions will be answered.  Various options may be compared to evaluate which may best provide the improvement you are seeking.  Your surgeon may require you to get a mammogram or other radiologic study, depending on your age and breast history.

Day of Surgery

Your surgeon will see you prior to surgery and mark anatomical areas and incisions.  Anesthesia and incisions will vary with the patient’s needs.  The surgeon will remove skin, reshape the breast tissue, and lift the nipple location resulting in a higher, tighter breast appearance.  A breast augmentation may be performed as well, which would be planned ahead of time.

Immediate Aftercare

You will wake up in the recovery area wearing a postop surgical bra or other compression garment.  Usually you will go home the same day with your detailed postop care instructions.

Follow-Up Visits

You will have scheduled followup visits to monitor your healing and recovery.  Attending all postop visits is important in your recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Actual “downtime” is generally minimal for most patients, with “in bed” time for a few hours the day of surgery and ability to do everyday non-strenuous activity the same day or next day, as long as you are not driving.  Your surgeon may recommend long-acting local anesthetic blocks/injection during your procedure, which can increase postop comfort.  Patients are asked to refrain from heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for 3-6 weeks, depending on the specific techniques performed for the breast lift.  Walking several times a day is encouraged.  Wear your postop bra as instructed and carefully follow the postop activity recommendations.

Results: What to Expect

After your breast lift, you will notice an immediate improvement in breast shape and nipple location.  The breasts may appear a little tight and higher than expected at first.  Swelling may occur the first few days, and then decrease slowly over time.  The tissues will relax and the final result will be evident within months, as a higher, more youthful shaped breast.

Gallery

Risks and Considerations

A breast lift carries the same risks as many other surgeries, including scarring, infection, healing issues, bleeding, and fluid collection under the skin.  It is very important to follow your postop instructions to help minimize complications.

 

Why Choose an FSPS Member Plastic Surgeon?

  • Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Specialized training in facial anatomy and aesthetics
  • Access to accredited surgical facilities
  • A patient-first approach focused on safety and results

Frequently Asked Questions

Due to the many varied needs of the patient, it is not possible to do a fee estimate without considering the patient’s goals and current exam and health history. It is best to have a consult to determine costs.

A breast lift is a cosmetic procedure and is therefore not covered by insurance.

Patients are able to walk around, sit up, and do day-to-day activities the same day or next day after surgery. No heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for 4–6 weeks, or as instructed by your surgeon.

You can expect a nice improvement after a breast lift, and the breasts appear more youthful. Many patients enjoy their results for years. As you continue to age, breast tissues continue to age as well; therefore, results will change with time.

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Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

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