Surgical

Mastopexy (Breast Lift)

A mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, elevates and reshapes sagging breasts to restore firmness and a youthful profile.

Mastopexy in Memphis

Many individuals experience breast ptosis (drooping or sagging) due to factors like aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, genetics, and the effects of gravity. A mastopexy can renew breast contour and elevate confidence.

What It Can—and Can’t—Do

What It Does:

  • Removes excess skin and tightens surrounding tissue to lift the breasts. 
  • Repositions the nipple–areola complex to a higher, more youthful location. 
  • Can address asymmetry and resize enlarged areolas.

What It Doesn’t Do:

  • Typically does not change breast volume. If adding fullness is desired, combining with augmentation or reduction is an option. 
  • Cosmetic in nature and generally not covered by insurance.

Is This Right for You?

Good candidates:

  • Are in overall good health and non-smokers. 
  • Desire lifted breasts.
  • Have realistic expectations and are past childbearing or have stable weight. 

Consider delaying if:

  • You plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. 
  • You’re still experiencing significant weight changes.

Consultation & Preparing for Surgery

During your consultation, expect to discuss:

  • Your goals and desired outcomes.
  • Complete medical and family history, including any cancer screening 
  • Lifestyle factors, medications, smoking habits, etc.
  • A physical breast examination with careful measurements and possibly baseline imaging (e.g., mammogram). 
  • Available surgical techniques, anesthesia, and expected recovery. 

Pre-surgery:

  • Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, or products that increase bleeding risk. 
  • Stop smoking well before surgery to support proper healing.

Surgical Techniques

The mastopexy technique is tailored to your anatomy, degree of sagging, and cosmetic goals. Options include: 

  • Crescent lift: Small incision above the areola – best for minimal sagging.
  • Periareolar (“donut”) lift: Circular incision around the areola – suitable for mild to moderate sagging.
  • Vertical (“lollipop”) lift: Incision around the areola extending vertically down – common for moderate lifts.
  • Inverted-T (“anchor”) lift: Incision around the areola plus vertical and horizontal cuts along the breast crease – used for significant reshaping.

When combined with augmentation (implant) or reduction, these scars may vary in size but allow comprehensive contouring.

After Surgery: Recovery & Results

  • Procedures are performed outpatient. 
  • Results are immediately visible, though swelling and scar maturation continue for several weeks to months. 
  • Incisions generally heal in 4–6 weeks, with scars fading over the course of a year or more. 
  • Risks may include scarring, uneven results, sensory changes, bleeding, or infection. 
  • Long-term outcome durability depends on lifestyle changes like weight stability and avoiding smoking. 

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