As the skin and tendons of the breast naturally age, they can lose elasticity and firmness, leading to sagging over time. While this is a normal part of aging, it can create a less youthful appearance that some women wish to address. Tendons responsible for breast support cannot be retightened through exercise, which means non-surgical options are limited when significant sagging occurs.
In these cases, a breast lift can reposition the breasts higher on the chest. This surgical approach addresses stretched skin and weakened support structures. At Tarola Plastic Surgery, we offer experience and compassion with every procedure and are proud to offer this surgery to our patients in Murfreesboro, TN, and across the country.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This approach addresses changes caused by aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy.
What Can a Breast Lift Treat?
Sagging or Droopy Breasts
Over time, the effects of gravity, aging, and weight changes can cause the breasts to lose their natural position and begin to sag. This shift often results in breasts that sit lower on the chest than they once did. A breast lift repositions the breasts to a higher placement, restoring balance and creating a more uplifted shape.
Stretched Skin and Loss of Firmness
When the skin loses elasticity, it can stretch and fail to provide proper support for breast tissue. This loss of firmness can leave the breasts looking deflated or elongated. By removing excess skin, breast lifts tighten the remaining tissue to give them a smoother, firmer appearance.
Downward-Facing or Asymmetrical Nipples
Nipples that point downward or appear uneven are a common concern for patients experiencing sagging. This often happens as the breast tissue shifts and the skin stretches over time. A breast lift adjusts the placement of the nipples, repositioning them to face forward.
Disproportionate Nipple-Areola Complex Position
The areola can become larger after pregnancy or due to hormones. If you feel that the size of your nipples and areola are too large in proportion to the rest of your breasts, this can be adjusted during a breast lift. An incision is made around the nipple and the excess pigmented skin is removed.
The Benefits of a Breast Lift
Customizable Options
Each breast lift is tailored to the patient’s unique needs. The degree of sagging, skin elasticity, and overall breast size determine which surgical approach is most appropriate. Techniques can range from minor adjustments with minimal incisions to more extensive reshaping for pronounced sagging.
Minimized Scarring
While incisions are a necessary part of a breast lift, careful surgical planning helps minimize scarring. Incision placement depends on the level of correction required but includes techniques that keep scars as discreet as possible. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable with proper aftercare and healing.
Long-Lasting Results
The results of a breast lift can last for many years, particularly when paired with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. By removing excess skin and tightening breast tissue, the procedure provides structural support that helps maintain the improved shape. While natural aging will continue, many patients enjoy the benefits of their breast lift for a long time.
Options With or Without Implants
A no implant breast lift repositions and reshapes the breasts, but it does not add volume. If fullness in the upper portion of the breasts is desired, a breast lift with implants may be recommended. Implants provide additional volume and structure, enhancing breast size and creating a more rounded upper contour.
How Your Breast Lift Is Performed
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Preparing for your breast lift begins with a consultation with Dr. Tarola to discuss your goals and create a surgical plan for you. During this time, we’ll review our surgical packet which includes detailed instructions to help you get ready for the procedure. You’ll need to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the weeks leading up to surgery to minimize risks.
We also recommend filling any prescriptions in advance for a smooth recovery process. Preparing your home for recovery—such as arranging comfortable resting spaces and having essentials within reach—can make the post-surgery period more manageable. Following these steps will help you feel ready and supported throughout the process.
The Surgery Process
Before your breast lift, you’ll meet with a board-certified anesthesiologist to discuss your safety and comfort during surgery. They will review your medical history, explain the anesthesia process, and answer any questions you may have. We use general anesthesia for this procedure, which means you’ll be completely asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery.
The type of incision used depends on the degree of correction needed:
- Anchor: Incision around the areola, vertically down the breast, and horizontally along the crease.
- Lollipop: Incision around the areola and vertically down the breast.
- Donut: Incision only around the areola for minimal sagging.
Instead of traditional dressings, we use skin glue to protect the incisions and support healing. This approach eliminates the need for bulky bandages while maintaining a clean, secure closure.
The Recovery Process
Immediate Recovery
After your breast lift recovery begins, you can expect some soreness, tightness, and mild discomfort, which is normal. Pain is managed with prescribed medications, cold compresses, and other strategies. With patience and care, this first phase can be manageable. You’ll be able to shower 24 hours after surgery, but we recommend keeping the incisions clean and avoiding hot water directly on the surgical area. Pat the area dry gently and follow all provided care instructions.
The First Two to Three Weeks
For the first two to three weeks, wearing a sports bra or soft cup bra 24/7 is essential to provide support and promote healing. Avoid heavy lifting, reaching overhead, or any strenuous activities during this time since these can interfere with recovery. Light walking is encouraged, but it’s important to listen to your body and avoid pushing too hard.
Long-Term Recovery
Over the coming weeks and months, scar healing will continue to improve. We’ll provide scar care tips, such as keeping incisions protected from the sun and using recommended topical treatments to support healing. A follow-up appointment with Dr. Tarola will allow us to monitor your progress and answer any questions you may have. Most patients can return to work after one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job. Exercise routines, especially those involving upper body movements, should be reintroduced gradually after about six weeks.
FAQs About Breast Lift Surgery
How Long Will My Results Last?
The results of a breast lift are long-lasting, but factors such as aging, gravity, and weight fluctuations can affect the shape of your breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight, caring for your skin, and wearing supportive bras can help prolong the results. While no surgery can stop the natural aging process, many patients enjoy their improved breast shape for a decade or more.
Can a Breast Lift Be Combined With Other Procedures?
A breast lift can often be combined with other surgeries, such as augmentation or a breast reduction and lift. Sometimes it can be combined with other procedures like a tummy tuck or liposuction, commonly called a mommy makeover. Combining procedures can address multiple concerns in one surgery and one recovery period.
Can I Still Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?
Many patients are able to breastfeed after a breast lift procedure, but it depends on the extent of the surgery and the techniques used. The procedure is designed to preserve the milk ducts and glands when possible. If you plan to have children in the future and are concerned about breastfeeding, this is an important topic to discuss during your consultation.
How Soon After Childbirth or Breastfeeding Can I Have a Breast Lift?
Dr. Tarola may recommend waiting at least six months after childbirth or finishing breastfeeding before undergoing a breast lift. This allows time for your breasts to stabilize in shape and size and helps you get the best possible results. If you are planning future pregnancies, it’s worth considering that another pregnancy could affect the outcomes of the surgery.
How Long Will I Be In Surgery?
The duration of your breast lift surgery depends on the technique and the degree of correction needed. Most procedures take between two to three hours. During your consultation, we’ll provide a more specific estimate based on your unique surgical plan.
About Your Surgeon
Dr. Nicholas Tarola is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast and body procedures. Known for his meticulous approach and commitment to patient care, he combines advanced techniques with an eye for natural-looking results. Based in Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Tarola takes the time to understand each patient’s goals so every treatment plan perfectly suits the individual. With a focus on safety and precision, he is dedicated to helping patients achieve their desired outcomes.
Are you from out of town? We have an excellent out-of-town program including virtual consultations, local hotel recommendations, and follow-up care. We will make sure you are taken care of throughout the entire process. Plan to stay in town for seven to ten days after your surgery.
Restore Youthful Breasts With Breast Lift Surgery
A breast lift can address sagging, reshape the breasts, and restore a more balanced, youthful contour. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, we focus on delivering results that align with your individual goals. To learn more about this procedure or schedule your consultation, call us at (615) 624-8914 or contact us using our online form.
