A breast lift is a surgical procedure to rejuvenate the appearance of breasts by lifting and reshaping them. Drs. Hannan and Patrick provide breast lifts in Washington, DC, targeting sagging, drooping, or uneven breasts to achieve a rejuvenated and more youthful silhouette.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, restores a more youthful and uplifted appearance to breasts that have begun to sag or droop. This can occur due to factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or genetics. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted to a higher position on the chest, and the nipple-areola complex is repositioned to a more aesthetically pleasing location.
Breast lift surgery does not significantly change the size of the breasts, although it can be combined with breast augmentation or reduction procedures for those seeking a change in volume as well. The goal of a breast lift is to create firmer, perkier breasts with improved symmetry, contour, and proportionality, enhancing the overall appearance of the chest area and boosting self-confidence in individuals who may feel self-conscious about breast sagging.
What Are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?
- Restores youthful and perky breast appearance
- Improves breast symmetry and proportionality
- Enhances self-confidence and body image
- Reduces sagging and drooping of breasts
- Repositions the nipples for a more aesthetically pleasing look
- Removes excess skin for a tighter and firmer breast contour
- Allows for more comfortable and confident clothing choices
- Long-lasting results with proper care and maintenance
- Can be combined with other procedures for comprehensive breast enhancement
To discover how mastopexy in Washington, DC, can benefit you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
What Happens During the Breast Lift Consultation?
During the breast lift consultation, our experienced plastic surgeons, Dr. Patrick and Dr. Hannan, will thoroughly assess your individual needs and goals. Our surgeons will begin by discussing your medical history, including any previous surgeries, current medications, and any existing medical conditions. They will then conduct a comprehensive examination of your breasts, assessing factors such as skin elasticity, nipple position, and breast asymmetry.
Our surgeons will discuss the breast lift procedure in detail and explain the techniques involved, potential risks and complications, and expected outcomes. They answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have, ensuring you feel fully informed and confident in your decision. Our goal is to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic preferences, ultimately helping you achieve the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire.
Breast Lift Procedure
At Washington Women Plastic Surgery, our approach to breast lifts is rooted in precision, balance, and natural beauty. We take pride in reshaping your existing breast tissue—without implants—to create a youthful, elevated contour that flatters your shape and reflects your personal goals. While many techniques exist, we most often perform lifts using the anchor incision pattern (Wise pattern) and a superomedial pedicle technique, which gives us the most control when shaping and repositioning the breast in three dimensions.
Many patients come in thinking they need implants, but they’re often pleasantly surprised by the dramatic results a lift alone can achieve. Our focus is on using your own tissue to sculpt beautiful, perky, proportional breasts—and for many, a smaller, well-shaped breast feels lighter, fresher, and more elegant than an augmented one.
Anchor Technique
(Wise Pattern)
Our most commonly used method, the anchor incision pattern involves an incision around the areola, vertically down to the lower breast, and horizontally along the natural breast crease. This allows for comprehensive reshaping and ideal nipple placement. Contrary to myths, the lower incision is discreetly hidden in the fold and essential for creating the most aesthetically pleasing proportions.
Vertical Technique
(Lollipop)
The vertical or “lollipop” lift uses an incision around the areola and vertically downward, but without a horizontal crease incision. This technique may be used in select cases but can limit the ability to control the lower portion of the breast. In larger or fuller breasts, it can result in a nipple that appears too high or a breast that looks bottom-heavy over time.
Circumareolar Technique
(Donut or Crescent)
Involving an incision only around or on the upper part of the areola, this option is best suited for minor lifting and areolar size reduction. While cosmetically subtle, it’s not ideal for achieving major reshaping or correcting significant droop.
Can a Breast Lift Be Combined with a Breast Augmentation?
Combining a breast lift with breast augmentation is a popular option for women seeking both lifted and enhanced breasts. This combination procedure addresses not only sagging or drooping breasts but also adds volume and improves overall breast shape and symmetry. During your breast lift in Washington, DC, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted, and implants are placed to achieve the desired size and fullness.
By combining these procedures, you can achieve comprehensive results that address multiple concerns in a single surgery. Whether you desire larger, more youthful-looking breasts or simply wish to restore lost volume and firmness, the combination of a breast lift with augmentation can help you achieve your aesthetic goals efficiently. Please consult our board-certified plastic surgeons to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this combined procedure.
Who Is a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
- You are bothered by sagging or drooping breasts.
- You have nipples that point downward or fall below the breast crease.
- You experience breast asymmetry or irregularities in shape.
- You are in good overall health and do not smoke.
- You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
- You have completed your family planning and are not currently breastfeeding.
- You are at a stable weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- You are willing to follow pre- and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.
- You understand the limitations of a breast lift and are open to discussing other procedures.
To determine your candidacy for mastopexy in Washington, DC, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
What Is Recovery from Breast Lift Like?
Recovery from a breast lift involves a period of rest and gradual healing. Following surgery, you may experience temporary side effects, such as swelling, bruising, discomfort, and mild to moderate pain. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication and provide instructions on managing these symptoms. Follow these guidelines diligently to ensure a smooth recovery.
You’ll need to avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for a few weeks to allow your body to heal properly. Most patients can return to work and light activities within a week or two, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. Wearing a supportive bra and attending follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are essential to recovery. Your surgeon will oversee your progress, remove sutures as necessary, and offer guidance on gradually returning to regular activities following your breast lift in Washington, DC.
Inspiring Confidence With Natural Results
Washington Women Plastic Surgery is your destination for achieving natural, confidence-inspiring results through breast lift. Led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Lauren Patrick and Dr. Catherine Hannan, our practice prioritizes patient satisfaction above all else. Our collaborative approach ensures you benefit from the combined expertise of two skilled surgeons who work together to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and desires. Schedule your consultation to explore your breast lift options today.
