Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts, often resulting from aging, pregnancy, or significant weight loss. Women in San Diego and La Jolla choose this surgery to remove excess skin and breast tissue for a lifted, enhanced breast appearance — without the need for breast implants!

The Best Breast Lift Candidates

Are not taking blood thinner medications or using nicotine products
Are not pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have children in the immediate future
Have nipples below the lower crease of the breast or pointing downwards
Have breast ptosis (sagging) but are happy with breast size
Are healthy and a stable weight

If you are over 40 years old or have a strong family history of breast cancer, Dr. Gallus will recommend a mammogram before surgery.

Dr. Katerina Gallus

Female Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Gallus has over 20 years of experience and is a fully credentialed, board certified plastic surgeon. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.

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Breast Lift La Jolla: Your Options

Breast lift surgery can be performed in several ways. The most common techniques offer a safe and reliable method of lifting the breast that is tailored to your body and your desired results.

Anchor Incision Breast Lift

The most frequent technique employed by Restore SD surgeons is the anchor-type incision. The anchor pattern includes an incision around the areola that extends vertically down and connects to a horizontal incision that is hidden in the lower breast crease. Using the anchor pattern allows for maximal skin removal and powerful reshaping of the breast.

Vertical Breast Lift

Another common technique is the vertical breast lift. This is also sometimes referred to as a short-scar or limited-scar breast lift. This surgery limits the incisions to a “lollipop” type incision. The incision extends around the areola and vertically down to the lower breast crease. It does not include the horizontal lower breast crease incision. This technique is best for women who have minimal skin excess but still require a lifting of the nipple and areola.

Circumareolar Breast Lift

A circumareolar incision is a type of lift that is performed via an incision that is limited to the area around your areola. This limited incision is used when repositioning the nipple areola complex only 1 -2 cm. This is often done in circumstances where symmetry (matching the opposite breast) is desired or in combination with other breast enhancement surgeries. This technique can also be used to reduce the size of large areolae to a size that won’t be revealed in bathing suits or bras.

“I have never felt so much support and love from a plastic surgeon office (I have been to a few.)…I am so happy with my results and will always refer Dr. Gallus and her team to everyone I know. She changed my life and I will be forever grateful!!!”

——A. E., actual patient of Dr. Gallus

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Your Consultation

When you arrive at Restore SD Plastic Surgery to discuss a Breast Lift (mastopexy), Dr. Gallus will perform a detailed examination as well as review your medical history and any medications you are taking. If you are over 40 years of age or have a strong family history of breast cancer a recent mammogram will be requested. At your consultation, you will have photos taken with our Vectra 3D imaging system and discuss treatment areas and options while viewing your photos series. With our state-of-the-art Canfield software, potential surgical results can be viewed and adjustments can be made, helping you to visualize possible outcomes.

If you have breast ptosis, or sagging breasts, during your consultation Dr. Gallus can tell you which type of breast lift surgery will best correct this.

Video Transcript

Hi, I’m Dr. Kat Gallas of Restore SD Plastic Surgery. Breast ptosis is defined as sagging of the breast. We most commonly think of breast ptosis in three different forms: either the nipple position is at or below the inframammary crease, which is that line underneath or full underneath your breast, or it’s below the inframammary crease, or if the nipple is facing down to the floor, that’s type three ptosis. In certain patients, you can have pseudoptosis, which is when the nipple is in good position, but the breast tissue has fallen down below the nipple. Depending on what level of ptosis you may have, that tends to dictate which type of breast lift you might need. For women who might have significant breast ptosis, a full mastopexy, or breast lift, is indicated. This uses an anchor incision, which is an incision around the nipple areolar complex, straight down, and underneath the breast fold. This provides the most reshaping and lifting in a breast. If you are interested in which breast lift procedure might be the right choice for you, call us at Restore SD Plastic Surgery and schedule a consultation. We look forward to seeing you at Restore SD Plastic Surgery.

The Procedure

Surgery Prep

If you have close friends or relatives who have had breast lifts – start there! A personal story of their journey may guide you to questions to ask your surgeon and having someone with a shared experience is invaluable. Educate yourself by reading our procedure page and viewing our educational videos. Remember to wear a button-down front-opening shirt on the day of surgery so that your post-operative experience does not include wrestling a shirt over your head!

The Surgery

Breast lifts are typically performed under general anesthesia to offer maximum comfort and safety. We perform all surgeries at an accredited outpatient surgery center or hospital. The surgery usually takes 2 – 3 hours depending on your starting breast size and individual surgical plan. Dr. Gallus will carefully mark planned incisions to properly reposition your nipple and areola and review the final plan with you to ensure there are no last-minute questions.

After anesthesia is administered, your surgeon will make incisions and remove the excess breast skin while carefully preserving the blood supply to the nipple and areola. Once the excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped to a more youthful contour and the nipple-areolar complex is repositioned.

Liposuction may be used to improve the shape of your new breasts or remove extra tissue on the side of your chest. In some cases, a drain is placed. The incisions are then closed using absorbable sutures. There will be no external sutures to remove later. Surgical dressings are applied and you will be placed in a post-surgical compression bra. You will need to wear this bra or a similar front-opening sports bra for the next few weeks.

Depending on your body and surgical goals, Dr. Gallus may recommend the internal bra technique using surgical mesh.

Video Transcript

Hi, I’m Dr. Kat Gallas of Restore SD Plastic Surgery. Today, a lot of my patients who have breast sagging or breast ptosis after weight loss benefit from the use of mesh as part of their breast lift procedure. Mesh is an absorbable suture-type material that forms an internal bra. It dissolves over 1 to 2 years but stimulates your own body’s collagen and elastin to strengthen the lower pole of your breast tissue, helping to support that lifted look. In your consultation, we will determine if adding mesh to your procedure is the right choice for you. We look forward to seeing you at Restore SD Plastic Surgery.

Commonly Combined Procedures

Breast lift surgery can be combined with other breast enhancement techniques. It is most often combined with breast augmentation in patients who desire fuller breasts in addition to lifted breasts. Breast lift surgery can also be safely combined with breast implant removal or body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or liposuction in what is commonly referred to as Mommy Makeover surgery.

Key Benefits
Glossary

Key Benefits

Key Benefits of Breast Lift Surgery

Repositions and reshapes sagging breasts
Elevates drooping nipples and areolas to a more natural position
Reduces skin irritation and chafing that occurs under sagging breasts
Corrects asymmetrical breasts, making them more balanced
Offers significant improvement without the need for implants

Glossary

Anchor Incision – A surgical technique used in breast lifts involving three incisions: around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and along the breast crease, resembling the shape of an anchor; this method is typically used for women with significant sagging.
Areola – The pigmented skin surrounding the nipple; its size and shape can be adjusted during a breast lift procedure.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) – A surgical procedure aimed at raising and firming the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue, often resulting in an uplifted breast contour.
Breast Augmentation – Breast augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. Breast augmentation is commonly combined with a lift procedure for improved shape and size.
Breast Reduction – Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and weight of large breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, aiming to alleviate discomfort and achieve a breast size proportionate to the body.
Breast Tissue – The biological tissue that makes up the breast, consisting of lobules (milk-producing glands), ducts (milk passages), and fatty and connective tissues.
Breast Volume – the amount of breast tissue, which can be enhanced with implants to increase breast size.
Excess Skin – Skin that has lost its elasticity and stretches beyond the natural contour of the breast, often removed during a breast lift to create a firmer breast appearance.
Lollipop Incision – A breast lift technique that involves two incisions: one around the edge of the areola and another running vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the breast crease, resembling the shape of a lollipop; it is suitable for moderate sagging.
Mastectomy – A surgical procedure to remove one or both breasts, partially or completely, often used to treat or prevent breast cancer.
Nipple-Areola Complex (NAC) – Refers to the nipple and the areola together; in breast lift procedures, the position and size of the NAC can be adjusted to achieve a more youthful appearance.
Ptosis – Medical term for sagging of the breasts, characterized by the descent of the breast and nipple position below the breast crease; it is commonly classified into different grades based on severity.
Sutures – Stitches used by surgeons to close incisions; in a breast lift, they are typically placed around the areola, down the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease.
Symmetry – The goal of achieving a balanced and proportionate appearance between both breasts, which can be addressed during a breast lift procedure.

Recovery

After your surgery is completed you will be able to go home with a responsible adult. Ideally, this loved one or friend will be able to stay with you during the first few days of recovery. Some surgical pain is expected and treated with pain medications. Initially, the area around the nipple and most of the breast skin is numb but sensation returns over the next few months.

Most women can return to work after 1 – 2 weeks after their breast lifts. Normal daily activities like showering, eating, and light activity such as walking can be resumed within 24 hours after surgery. Some post-operative swelling is normal and generally resolves within the first 4-6 weeks after surgery. To help reduce swelling, bruising, and promote quicker healing, we also offer lymphatic massage treatments. You should refrain from intense physical activity for 4 weeks.

During the recovery period, you will have follow-ups with your Restore SD surgeon and will be guided back to your usual activities. Most complications occur from getting too active too early, so select a surgical date that allows an appropriate amount of time to heal and gradually return to your more vigorous activities.

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Recovery Calculator

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Results

Your results should last for a long time unless you gain or lose a significant amount of weight or become pregnant. Over time, your lifted breasts will gradually succumb to the effects of gravity and aging, eventually changing the shape of your breasts.

Scar care after your plastic surgery procedure

Unfortunately, scarless surgery does not yet exist, but Dr. Gallus will educate you about scar management postoperatively. A surgical scar will take 9-12 months to fully mature. Your scar will go through changes during the healing process, and your Restore SD team will help you manage this part of your recovery. This can consist of sun avoidance (no topless beaches for 6-9 months!) scar massage, scar cream, and fractionated laser treatments.

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Why trust Restore SD Plastic Surgery for your breast lift

Dr. Gallus has over a decade of experience with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. In addition to being fully credentialed, she takes the time to listen to your goals and partner with you to develop the best and safest surgical plan that will optimize your results and leave you looking and feeling your best.

Your Safety = Beautiful Results

Breast Lift at Restore SD

At Restore SD Plastic Surgery, patient safety comes first. Board-certified plastic surgeon and former Navy plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus operates in a private, on-site Quad A-accredited surgery center, with state-of-the-art equipment and LED surgical lighting. She proudly works with a board-certified anesthesiologist and holds privileges at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.

Here’s how we keep you safe »

Video: Learn all about breast lifts in this episode of Carpools & Cannulas with Dr. Gallus & Dr. Greer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between breast reduction and breast lift?

Both procedures will lift and restore a youthful contour to the breasts, but in breast reduction, the size of your breasts is also significantly reduced. Breast reduction is usually performed to help alleviate upper back and neck pain and is often considered a therapeutic procedure, i.e. covered by insurance. Each insurance provider has different requirements that define whether your procedure is covered as a breast reduction. Dr. Gallus will work with you to determine if your procedure is able to be covered under your insurance plan. Unlike a breast reduction, breast lift surgery does not significantly decrease the size of your breasts and is considered a strictly cosmetic procedure.

Can I get a breast lift if I have implants?

Yes! Breast lift surgery is a common breast enhancement procedure performed in conjunction with breast augmentation or sometimes long after having had implants placed. Depending on your skin elasticity and the size of your breast implants, you may find that the weight of the implants causes your breasts to sag more quickly. In many cases the implant remain in an elevated position on the chest while the breast tissue droops below. In addition to a breast lift surgery, which will rebalance your breast tissues with the implants, some women choose to change the size of their implants. In women who are permanently removing their implants, breast lift surgery is a common procedure, as the implants can leave sagging deflated breasts after removal.

Will pregnancy affect my breast lift results?

Pregnancy can significantly alter the shape and size of your breasts due to hormonal changes and weight changes. Your breasts may return to their pre-pregnancy lifted state following surgery or you may find yourself needing a second surgery to re-lift your breasts. Because of this unpredictability, we recommend postponing breast enhancement surgery if you have immediate plans to have children.

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?

Depending on the type of procedure you have, the ability to breastfeed after breast lift surgery may be altered. However, most women are able to breastfeed after Breast Enhancement surgery.

How much can you lift the breast?

The breasts can be lifted in almost all circumstances, even in cases where the nipple and areola are pointing to the ground. This versatile procedure when performed with the expertise of skilled a surgeon such as Dr. Gallus, can dramatically improve the appearance of your breasts.

Will my breasts be smaller after a breast lift?

Depending on the amount of excess skin removed at the time of the lift, your breasts may appear and feel slightly smaller. If restoring volume to the upper half of your breast or increasing the size of your breast is a goal, a combination procedure with breast augmentation may be the ideal procedure for you.

Do I need to wear a bra after breast lift surgery?

In the immediate postoperative period, you will need to wear a light compression bra without underwire for support. Once you have fully recovered from surgery, wearing a bra is at your own discretion. Renewing your self-confidence and finding fun new clothing options will be the best part of recovery.

I am a smoker – can I have breast lift surgery?

At Restore SD Plastic surgery, we want to deliver safe, consistent, and reproducible results. Smoking tobacco or using any nicotine products has adverse effects on wound healing. Your risk of nipple loss, infection, and prolonged incision healing are much higher if you use nicotine. We recommend a nicotine-free period of 8 weeks prior to surgery and a minimum of 4 weeks post-operatively. We have a simple urinary nicotine test that we complete in the office to help you on your journey to a safe and gratifying surgical experience with us.

Can I get plastic surgery if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes it is important to work with your medical team to maintain an ideal HbA1C. Diabetes can increase your risk for prolonged wound healing and certain types of infections. Surgery can be safely performed but requires a coordinated effort from patients, surgeons, and medical doctors to attain outstanding results. There are some instances where Dr. Gallus may want to postpone surgery until your diabetes is under better control.

How soon can I travel after my surgery?

Having surgery means a commitment to an appropriate recovery. We recommend scheduling your surgery at a time that allows enough time to recover and gradually return to your normal activities. Flying, driving long distances, or leaving the immediate area are not recommended until you have been cleared by your surgeon. If you have specific travel needs or require advice for emergency travel soon after a procedure, please let us know and we will be glad to discuss the details with you.

How do I choose the best breast lift surgeon?

Ask if your surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a female Board Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Katerina Gallus has years of training and expertise in breast surgery that cannot be imitated by short courses and alternative certifications. Ensure that your surgeon is proficient in breast surgery and breast lift surgery in particular. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is one of 23 members of the American Board of Medical Specialties. These specialties represent the traditional core of fully trained specialists. Alternative boards have cropped up over the last several years to lend legitimacy to incompletely trained or poorly trained practitioners. Accept nothing less than a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who preferably is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

Does a breast lift help with sagging breasts after weight loss?

Many of my patients want to know if there’s a procedure to correct sagging breasts after weight loss. A breast lift is often the solution to fix sagging breasts after weight loss. So, although a breast lift does not add volume to your breasts, it does restore a more youthful shape.

There are three basic types of breast lifts. These are based on the incisions used to lift and reshape the breast. The most basic one is around the nipple areolar complex. This is called a circumareolar lift and it can be used if the reshaping involves moving the nipple up 1 or 2 cm. The most common type of breast lift is a vertical breast lift, which is done through a lollipop incision, meaning an incision that goes around the nipple areolar complex and then straight down.

For women who might have significant breast ptosis after weight loss, a full mastopexy or breast lift is neeeded. This uses an anchor incision, which is an incision around the nipple areolar complex straight down and underneath the breast fold. This provides the most reshaping and lifting in a breast.

“One of the greatest challenges after significant weight loss is the feeling of being trapped in a wrinkly lump of loose skin. Dr Gallus and her amazing team were so kind and generous in helping me peel away not only my extra skin, but in feeling like it was the right thing for me. She’s taken care of my abdomen, breasts and arms. The scars are very minimal and I feel absolutely amazing. If you’re considering plastics, you can’t go wrong with coming to her.”

—Google Review for Dr. Gallus

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Schedule your consultation with Dr. Gallus

Female La Jolla plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus and our San Diego plastic surgery team are here to make your plastic surgery journey a positive—and even fun—experience! Dr. Gallus partners with you to establish the perfect breast lift surgery plan to achieve your goals. To begin your journey with a consultation at our San Diego office to discuss surgery recommendations, cost, and more, call 858-224-2281 or contact us online today.

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References »

Hidalgo DA, Spector JA. Mastopexy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2013 Oct;132(4):642e-656e. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0b013e31829fe4b4.

Ramanadham SR, Rose Johnson A. Breast Lift with and without Implant: A Synopsis and Primer for the Plastic Surgeon. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020 Oct 28;8(10):e3057. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003057. PMID: 33173660; PMCID: PMC7647657.

W. Grant Stevens, David A. Stoker, Mark E. Freeman, Suzanne M. Quardt, Elliot M. Hirsch, Mastopexy Revisited: A Review of 150 Consecutive Cases for Complication and Revision Rates, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 27, Issue 2, March 2007, Pages 150–154, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asj.2006.12.014

W. Grant Stevens, Michelle Spring, David A. Stoker, Mark E. Freeman, Robert Cohen, Suzanne M. Quardt, Elliot M. Hirsch, A Review of 100 Consecutive Secondary Augmentation/Mastopexies, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 27, Issue 5, September 2007, Pages 485–492, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asj.2007.07.003

Austin RE, Saheb-Al-Zamani M, Lista F, Ahmad J. Periareolar Augmentation-Mastopexy. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019 Aug 22;39(9):953-965. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjz128.

Pferdehirt R, Nahabedian MY. Finesse in Mastopexy and Augmentation Mastopexy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2021 Sep 1;148(3):451e-461e. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000008303.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Oct 29, 2024

Learn more about breast lift surgery in San Diego