Breast Lift

About Breast Lift Surgery

A surgical breast lift is a cosmetic treatment that lifts and tightens the breasts by reducing excess skin and pulling tight the healthy tissue to produce a firmer, younger appearance. This cosmetic breast surgery is offered for women who have lost breast fullness and shape and who have breast sagging due to aging and gravity, as well as weight loss or pregnancy. Medical breakthroughs in breast lift surgery have made this aesthetic surgery so effective that new stats released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons show around a 70% increase in demand since 2000. Dr. Mark Schoemann, a double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon in Encinitas, CA, offers this cosmetic breast surgery at Schoemann Plastic Surgery while prioritizing patient safety and comfort. By using the most advanced methods, Dr. Schoemann can tailor his technique to address the level of sag present as well as your desired aesthetic goal.

Ideal Candidates

Many women visit Schoemann Plastic Surgery hoping to get implants only; however, after a physical exam, you may realize that a mastopexy could provide a better outcome. This is because of the severity of breast sagging that is present. Women whose breasts and nipples point down typically need a breast lift to correct skin irregularities and raise the breasts higher up on the chest wall. If your nipples point downward and your breasts look elongated, a mastopexy (breast lift) can improve their appearance. Women considering a breast lift need to be physically healthy and at a stable weight. While implants may be wanted, in so many cases a breast lift is all that is needed to add the fullness and shape that is desired.

Surgical Technique

During your initial consultation, Dr. Schoemann discusses your aesthetic goals to conduct the breast lift under a holistic approach. The surgery is then planned around those goals to best encourage a result that fits your entire desired appearance.

Breast lift surgery takes about 2 – 4 hours and is performed using general anesthesia. The timeframe of this surgery depends on the severity of breast sag. The method used for mastopexy surgery generally falls within two categories — these are based on the size, location, and nature of the incision. The anchor technique (inverted-T) and the vertical incisions are the preferred types. Once the incision is made, any loose, unhealthy skin is carefully trimmed away along with breast tissue and fat that is not desired. The skin left behind is then pulled tight and the breasts are brought up and lifted so they look younger and healthy. In many cases, the size and shape of the areola is reduced to match the new shape of the breast. It is during this time an implant will be inserted into the breast if this was agreed upon with Dr. Schoemann before surgery. If a breast lift is the only technique being performed and if breast fullness and shape are a concern, breast implants can be done at a later date.

What to Expect

The overall recovery period for a mastopexy is more lengthy than breast augmentation surgery. After surgery, you will be fitted with a support bra to diminish swelling. A tiny tube will also be placed near the surgical area to assist with excess drainage that can sometimes occur after mastopexy treatment. The post-surgical swelling will decrease within about a week. Dr. Schoemann or a member of his team will provide specific, at-home incision care instructions to assist your healing process. Results following a breast lift treatment are noticeable after several months as your newly shaped breasts take their new position on your chest. The breasts will appear natural, and you will feel perkier and healthier overall.

Contact Schoemann Plastic Surgery in Encinitas to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schoemann today at (760) 487-2520 or by filling out our online form here.