A breast lift in San Diego can significantly enhance the shape and appearance of the breasts. This procedure can also be combined with breast augmentation. Among all breast surgeries, a breast lift demands the highest level of skill and artistic ability from the surgeon.
Breast Lift in San Diego, CA
Dr. Chasan Discusses Breast Lifts on the Wellness Hour
Discover Customized Breast Lift Solutions at Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery
We recognize that every woman's body is unique and are dedicated to providing personalized care that reflects your individual needs and aesthetic goals. Our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Paul Chasan and Dr. Cameron Francis, are renowned for their expertise and artistic approach to breast lift procedures.
If you're considering a breast lift to rejuvenate your silhouette and restore a youthful appearance to your breasts, we're here to help. Contact Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery today to schedule your personalized consultation.
Table of Contents
What is Mastopexy?
A mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts to a more youthful position.
Over time, factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, aging, and gravity can cause the breasts to lose their firmness and elasticity. A mastopexy addresses these concerns by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola. This results in a rejuvenated breast contour that enhances your natural proportions and boosts your confidence.
Breast Lift Before & After Photos
What Are My Breast Lift Incision Options?
When it comes to a breast lift, there are four incision options, each of which caters to a unique set of circumstances. These options are:
Circumareolar or “donut”
The scar is limited to just around the areola.
Vertical or “lollipop”
The scar goes around the areola and vertically down the breast to the inframammary crease.
Short Scar
Lollipop plus a short horizontal scar in the breast crease—this is the most common after Lollipop lifting.
Anchor
The scar (rarely used today), continues horizontally along the majority of the inframammary crease.
A breast lift can dramatically change and improve the shape and appearance of the breast and can also be performed in conjunction with breast augmentation. Of all the breast procedures, a breast lift requires the most in skill and artistic ability from the surgeon.
In the Operating Room
Lollipop Breast Lift with Dr. Francis
Degrees of Ptosis
Ptosis refers to the drooping or downward displacement of the breasts due to the stretching and weakening of the skin and supporting ligaments. This condition not only affects the aesthetic appearance of the breasts but can also impact a woman's comfort and confidence.
Ptosis is categorized into the following grades:
Grade I (Mild Ptosis)
- Nipples are at the level of the inframammary fold or slightly below
- Minimal sagging with good breast fullness
- Often occurs after minor weight loss or early signs of aging
Grade II (Moderate Ptosis)
- Nipples fall below the breast crease but remain above the majority of the breast tissue
- Noticeable sagging with some loss of volume
- Common after multiple pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations
Grade III (Severe Ptosis)
- Nipples are well below the breast crease and point downward
- Severe sagging with substantial volume loss
- Typically seen after significant weight loss or prolonged breastfeeding
Pseudoptosis
- Nipples are at or above the breast crease, but the lower breast tissue sags below the fold
- Indicates loss of lower breast fullness
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The cost of a mastopexy at Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery varies based on several factors, such as whether the procedure will be combined with any others. Our board-certified surgeons' skills and experience ensure high-quality results, and we provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation.
Am I a Good Candidate for Mastopexy?
You may be an ideal candidate for a mastopexy if:
- Your breasts have lost shape and volume due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss
- The nipples and areolas fall below the breast crease when unsupported
- You're unhappy with the flat, elongated, or pendulous appearance of your breasts
- One breast sits lower than the other, and you seek symmetry
- You are a non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery, with no medical conditions that impair healing
- You're at or near your ideal weight, as weight fluctuations can affect results
Post-Operative Incisions After One Year
Your Initial Consultation at Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery
Our board-certified surgeons tailor each mastopexy procedure to align with your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring stunning, natural-looking results. Your personalized journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our state-of-the-art facility in Del Mar Village.
During this appointment, you can discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, and expectations with our expert surgeons. We will also review your complete medical history, including any medications, allergies, and previous surgeries.
We will evaluate your breast size, shape, skin quality, and degree of sagging to determine the most appropriate surgical technique. Based on this thorough assessment, we will create a personalized surgical plan that caters to your unique anatomy and desired outcomes. Additionally, we will provide detailed explanations of the procedure, the recovery process, and any potential risks involved.
Mastopexy Recovery and Results
Immediate Postoperative Care
- Monitoring and Support: After your surgery, you'll spend time in our recovery area under close observation by our professional medical team. We ensure you're comfortable and provide any immediate postoperative care you may need.
- Dressings and Garments: Your breasts will be covered with gauze dressings, and you may be fitted with a supportive surgical bra or elastic bandage to minimize swelling and support your breasts as they heal.
- Managing Discomfort: It's normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days following your mastopexy. We will prescribe appropriate pain medication to manage any discomfort effectively.
First Few Weeks of Recovery
- Rest and Activity Limitations: We recommend ample rest during the first week. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over, as these can increase swelling and delay healing.
- Incision Care: Keep your incision sites clean and dry. We will provide detailed instructions on caring for your incisions to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of infection.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are essential. During these appointments, we'll monitor your healing progress, remove any necessary sutures, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
- Support Garments: Continue wearing your surgical bra as advised by our surgeons. This garment aids in reducing swelling and provides necessary support during the healing process.
Resuming Normal Activities
- Return to Work: Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light daily activities within one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job and personal comfort levels.
- Physical Exercise: Gradually reintroduce physical activities as recommended by our surgeons. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should typically be avoided for at least four to six weeks.
- Sleeping Positions: Sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated to minimize swelling and discomfort. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides until cleared by our medical team.
Long-Term Results
- Immediate Improvements: You will notice an immediate enhancement in the shape and position of your breasts post-surgery. Swelling and changes in sensation are normal and will gradually subside over the following weeks.
- Scar Maturation: Incision lines are permanent but will fade significantly over time. Scars typically become less noticeable within several months to a year. We offer guidance on scar care techniques to help minimize their appearance.
- Final Results: It may take several months for your breasts to settle into their final shape. Patience during this period is essential, as the tissues need time to adjust and heal fully.
- Maintaining Results: To prolong the results of your mastopexy, maintain a stable weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle. While the procedure provides long-lasting results, natural aging and gravity will continue to affect your breasts over time.
Breast Lift Risks
While mastopexy is a commonly performed and safe procedure, it's important to be aware of potential risks:
- Incisions will result in permanent scars, but they typically fade and are strategically placed to be less visible
- Temporary or permanent alterations in nipple or breast sensation may occur
- Slight differences in breast shape or nipple position can happen but are often correctable
- Risks include infection, bleeding, or poor wound healing, particularly if aftercare instructions aren't followed
- Although rare, adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible
- Future breastfeeding may be affected, but many women retain the ability to nurse
Why Choose Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Breast Lift in San Diego?
When it comes to enhancing your natural beauty with a breast lift in San Diego, choosing the right surgical team is essential. At Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery, we offer unparalleled expertise and a personalized approach to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Paul E. Chasan and Dr. Cameron K. Francis are renowned for their exceptional skill, artistry, and commitment to excellence in cosmetic breast surgery. With decades of combined experience, they have honed their techniques to deliver stunning, natural-looking results that enhance your confidence and well-being.
Choosing Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery means entrusting your transformation to a team that values excellence, integrity, and patient satisfaction above all else. Book a consultation with us today if you're ready to take the next step toward rejuvenating your silhouette and embracing a more confident you.
Breast Lift FAQs
Can I Combine a Breast Lift with Breast Augmentation or Reduction?
Yes, combining a breast lift with augmentation or reduction can enhance the shape and size of your breasts. If you want fuller breasts, a breast augmentation can be done at the same time as a lift. If you prefer to reduce overly large breasts while lifting them, a breast reduction can be combined with the lift.
What Are the Different Types of Breast Lift Techniques Available?
Popular breast lift techniques include the crescent lift, periareolar lift, vertical lift, and anchor lift, each tailored to address different levels of sagging.
Will a Breast Lift Increase My Breast Size?
A breast lift elevates and reshapes sagging breasts without significantly altering their size. While minor size reduction may occur due to excess skin removal, it doesn’t add volume. For a fuller look, you can combine your lift with breast augmentation using implants or fat transfer.
How Long Will the Results of My Breast Lift Last?
Mastopexy results are long-lasting, offering a noticeable breast position and shape lift. However, aging, gravity, and weight changes can impact longevity. Maintaining a stable weight, a healthy lifestyle, and wearing supportive bras can help extend your results.
Will a Breast Lift Affect My Ability to Breastfeed in the Future?
Most women can still breastfeed after a breast lift, especially if the nipple and areola stay connected to the breast tissue. However, some techniques may affect breastfeeding. If this concerns you, discuss it with our surgeons during your consultation to tailor the procedure accordingly.
What Is the Ideal Age for a Breast Lift?
There’s no ideal age for a mastopexy; it’s more about individual needs. Candidates are typically women with breast sagging due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or genetics. However, breast development should be complete before surgery.
How Visible Will the Scars Be After a Breast Lift?
Scarring is a natural part of surgery, but our surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize and discreetly place incisions along natural breast contours. Scars will fade over time, and proper care, like following post-op instructions and avoiding sun exposure, can further reduce their visibility.