When breasts have lost volume and started to sag due gravity, time and other factors, non-surgical options such as pushup bras, silicone inserts or clever clothing may not fully restore the breast look that you had.
A breast augmentation with lift combines two powerful techniques to restore and reshape, lift, and enhance your breasts in ways that neither procedure could achieve alone.
Having a successful outcome after breast surgery often depends on decisions you make weeks before entering an operating room. Your choice of plastic surgeon is important as well as understanding exactly what the procedure can — and cannot — achieve in meeting your aesthetic goals.
Related: Is Small Breast Augmentation Right For You? A Natural Approach
Understanding the Procedure
What Is a Breast Augmentation with Lift?
A breast augmentation with lift combines two distinct surgical techniques: the placement of implants to enhance breast volume and the lifting of breast tissue to correct sagging and loose skin. This approach addresses both size and shape, providing a comprehensive solution for individuals seeking fuller, more elevated breasts.
The procedure is medically known as mastopexy augmentation and is typically recommended when the breasts have lost cup size, firmness and the breasts begin to hang lower on the chest over the upper abdomen.
During this combined surgery, breast implants are inserted to restore or add volume, while excess breast skin is removed and the breast mound is lifted and reshaped to a rounder perkier look. The nipple/areola is often larger than desired, and is made smaller. The nipple/areola is also in a lower position on the breast and is repositioned to a higher more normal position on the breast mound. The dual approach allows for a more balanced and better aesthetic outcome compared to performing the procedures individually.
When Is This Procedure Recommended?
A plastic surgeon often recommends a simultaneous breast lift and augmentation when breast ptosis or breast droop is a significant issue for the patient as well as the desire for enhancing or restoring the breast size.
Factors such as aging, significant weight loss, or changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the breast appearance to change over time. Women state that their breasts look deflated and have become more uneven. The breasts have moderate to significant sagging with loss of fullness in the upper part of the breast leading to poor cleavage. The breast augmentation with lift procedure allows the plastic surgeon to correct all these issues in a single surgical session reducing recovery time and improving aesthetic outcomes.
Customizing the Procedure to Your Goals
Each breast augmentation with lift is planned to reflect the individual’s unique goals, body type, and medical background. Personalization involves choosing the appropriate implant type — saline or silicone — and selecting the size and shape that align with the desired outcome. In addition, the breast lifting technique is selected based on the degree of breast droop or ptosis and existing breast anatomy.
Consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures that all variables are assessed thoroughly, from skin quality to chest proportions, so that the result is both natural and consistent with the patient’s preferences. This customization is an integral part of achieving long-lasting satisfaction.
Important Considerations Before Surgery
Eligibility and Health Evaluation
Prior to proceeding with a breast augmentation with lift, a comprehensive health evaluation is essential. Ideal candidates are in good physical health, do not smoke, and maintain stable body weight. It is important to disclose all medical history, including current medications and any previous surgeries, to ensure that the procedure can be performed safely.
A consultation also provides the opportunity to discuss any underlying medical conditions that could influence healing or increase risk.
Laboratory testing or diagnostic imaging may be recommended to assess readiness for surgery. Additionally, patients must have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the recovery process. Psychological readiness is equally important, as emotional well-being contributes to overall satisfaction with the results.
Expectations for Results and Limitations
While mastopexy augmentation can provide meaningful improvement in breast shape and volume, we also need to understand its limitations. The procedure does not stop the natural aging process, nor does it guarantee permanent results.
Over time, changes in weight, hormonal fluctuations, and gravity may affect the appearance of the breasts.
It is also important to recognize that every body heals differently. Final results may take several months to fully develop, and minor asymmetries can be a natural part of the healing process.
Reviewing before and after breast lift with augmentation examples during the consultation can help establish a realistic vision of what the procedure can achieve.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon
Selecting a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast procedures is one of the most important decisions in this process.
Board certification, professional affiliations, and a portfolio of successful mastopexy augmentation cases serve as key indicators of a plastic surgeon’s qualifications.
A skilled plastic surgeon will take the time to conduct a detailed assessment, explain all aspects of the procedure, and develop a customized treatment plan. This level of care fosters trust and ensures that your experience is not only technically successful but also supportive and informative from start to finish!
Financial and Logistical Planning
Understanding the Breast Lift with Implants Cost
The overall cost of a breast lift with implants is determined by several components. While individual pricing may vary based on geographical location and surgical complexity, the following factors typically contribute to the total cost:
- Type and brand of implants selected (saline or silicone)
- Surgical facility or hospital fees
- Anesthesia services
- Pre-operative assessments and post-operative care
- Support garments and post-surgical supplies
- Experience and qualifications of the plastic surgeon
Mastopexy augmentation is generally classified as an elective cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance plans. Patients will receive a detailed estimate during the consultation to understand what is included in their quote.
Insurance and Financing Options
Since insurance does not usually apply, many patients explore alternative financial arrangements. During the consultation, inquire about options such as:
- Healthcare financing providers such as PatientFi, Care Credit and Alphaeon. Often there are options offering monthly payment with 0% interest.
- In-office payment plans may be available
- Acceptance of major credit cards or healthcare savings accounts
Scheduling and Time Commitment
Undergoing a breast augmentation with lift requires planning, not only for the procedure itself but also for pre- and post-operative phases. Important logistical considerations include:
- Time required for the initial consultation, imaging, and surgical planning
- Availability of the patient and plastic surgeon for the scheduled procedure
- Recommended recovery period, which often includes:
- 1-2 weeks off from work or regular responsibilities
- Temporary limitations on physical activity, particularly upper body movement
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure proper results
Related: Breast Implant Replacement: a Timeline
What to Expect During Recovery
Immediate Post-Surgical Experience
After the breast augmentation with lift procedure, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the surgical sites. This is a normal part of the healing process and should subside within the first few days.
Some patients may also experience mild fatigue as their body begins to heal. A few key aspects of the immediate post-surgical experience include:
- Pain medications to manage discomfort during the initial recovery period
- Dressings and surgical bras to support the breasts and aid in proper healing
- Drainage tubes, if used, to remove excess fluid to minimize swelling
It is important to follow the plastic surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely to minimize complications and support your best healing.
It is recommended that patients avoid activities that could strain the surgical sites, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in vigorous exercise.
Recovery Time for Breast Lift with Implants
The recovery process for a breast lift with implants typically spans several weeks, with the majority of swelling and bruising resolving within the first two to three weeks. However, full recovery and the final aesthetic results may take several months to manifest.
Overview of the general timeline for recovery:
- First week: Rest and limited activity; you will typically wear a surgical bra to support the breasts.
- Two to four weeks: Gradual reduction in swelling; you may be able to resume light activities, but you likely won’t want to do any heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise should be avoided.
- Six weeks and beyond: Most patients can return to regular activities, though caution should still be taken with intense physical exercise. Swelling will continue to subside, and the breast tissue will gradually settle into its new position.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Even after the initial healing period, there are several important factors to consider:
- Regular follow-up appointments: Patients will be scheduled for follow-up visits to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
- Breast implant maintenance: Over time, implants may require replacement or adjustment. It is important to schedule routine breast exams and breast imaging to monitor the condition of the implants.
- Lifestyle considerations: Maintaining a stable weight, avoiding smoking, and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure can help preserve the appearance of the breasts over the long term.
Related: What is Recovery Like After Breast Reduction Surgery?
Schedule Your Breast Augmentation with Lift Consultation Today with Dr. Adrian Lo!
Your first step towards your aesthetic goals? A personalized consultation! Dr. Adrian Lo provides thorough, individualized assessments to create a surgical plan tailored to your unique vision.
Effective patient engagement and careful preparation lay the groundwork for a successful breast augmentation with lift experience. Work closely with a qualified plastic surgeon, maintain realistic expectations, and take the next step toward enhanced confidence.
Contact Dr. Adrian Lo today to schedule your consultation and begin your transformative journey toward a more confident and satisfied version of yourself!