Breast Liftby Melissa Johnson MD, FACS
Breast Lift (mastopexy)
Breast Lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Factors such as pregnancy, nursing, weight change, aging and gravity produce changes in the appearance of a woman's breasts. This operation can also reduce the size of the areola. Sometimes, it is necessary to insert breast implants in conjunction with mastopexy to increase both firmness and size. There are a variety of different techniques along with surgical approaches for this procedure. Your preferences, anatomy and Dr. Johnson's recommendation will determine the technique and approach.
See our breast augmentation before & after photos and FAQs below.
Breast Lift FAQs
Breast Lift before & after photos
All photos are of procedures performed by Dr. Melissa Johnson
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Am I a good candidate for breast lift?
During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will provide you with her expert opinion as to whether a breast lift is a good option for you. If you are interested in raising, reshaping and providing more firmness to your breasts, a breast lift is for you. However, if you want a lift and a size change you may need either a reduction or augmentation in conjunction with the lift. In some instances an implant is needed to provide fullness to the upper part of the breast. The risks and benefits and possible complications of surgery will all be discussed. Once you are fully informed, you will be able to determine whether having a breast lift is for you.
Will I be seen by the surgeon?
Yes. Dr. Johnson will meet with you and she will discuss all your surgical options. Dr. Johnson will provide you with the necessary information so that you feel confident and comfortable with your surgical decision.
Will I be charged for an initial consultation?
Yes. There is a $100 consultation fee. If you choose to have surgery with Dr. Johnson, the $100 will go towards it.
Is the plastic surgeon board certified?
Yes. Dr. Johnson is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and is a proud member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Additionally, she is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which recognizes surgeons who specialize in cosmetic plastic surgery.
Are there different types of breast lift procedure?
Yes. A number of different incisions can be used to perform a breast lift. The techinique used is dependent on your current breast size and shape, the amount of extra skin you have, and your skin quality. The incisions can be made periareolar (around the nipple-areola complex) only, or periareolar with a vertical incision from the areola down to the breast fold, or periareolar with both a vertical incision and a horizontal incision along the breast fold. If needed, an implant is placed to provide more upper breast fullness.
What is the surgical process?
The surgery is performed at a hospital. During surgery you will receive general anesthesia. The surgery will take between 1-2 hours. Once you are awake you are taken to the recovery room for another 1-2 hours and then discharged home.
How should I prepare for my breast lift consultation?
Research on reputable internet sites such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons can be very informative to help provide basics about the procedure and your recovery. However, the best information will be obtained by making an appointment and speaking with Dr. Johnson. At the time of your consultation, it may also be helpful to review before and after photos of patients who have had the procedure. Viewing photos of women with a similar body type as yours is helpful. At the time of your consultation we will provide you with all the needed information for you to be able to make a comfortable, confident decision about having surgery. It's a good idea to write down any questions or concerns you have so they can be fully addressed at your consultation. Know what your surgical expectations are so Dr. Johnson can discuss them with you. If you are a smoker we recommend you quit to help reduce the risk of wound healing. We also recommend a healthy lifestyle to help your recovery process.
Where will my breast lift surgery be performed?
Dr. Johnson has privileges at Baystate Medical Center and Mercy Medical Center. Both are accredited by the Joint Commission and have been awarded the Gold Seal of Approval, and both are conveniently located in Springfield, MA.
Are there risks involved with breast lift?
Yes, there are risks with any surgical procedure. The most common risks with a breast lift are infection, pain, nipple sensation changes, breastfeeding difficulties, reoperation due to asymmetry, hematoma/seroma or unsatisfactory scarring. If an implant is placed, risks of the implant include rupture, capsular contracture, implant malposition.
What is the recovery process?
The first couple of days you may feel discomfort and pressure of the chest. You will notice that the discomfort decreases with each passing day. You are sent home on pain medications which will decrease your discomfort. We will recommend that you wear a sports bra after surgery to provide support. We request that you do no heavy lifting for at least one month following surgery.
Will my insurance cover breast lift surgery?
No. Raising and firming the breast with a lift is a cosmetic procedure. The insurance companies do not deem this procedure medically necessary and therefore it is not a covered procedure by insurance carriers.
Can I finance my breast lift procedure?
Yes. We offer patient financing through CareCredit or ALPHAEON CREDIT. See our Financing FAQs for more information.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, cash, money orders, and certified bank checks, or you can finance through CareCredit.
Can I make payments online?
Yes. You can make credit card payments securely online.