How painful is a breast lift without implants?

Author: Shemar Heidenreich  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 2, 2025

A breast lift without implant operation itself isn't painful as it is performed under a general anaesthetic. Immediately after your operation, your breasts will feel swollen and sore, but most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort that should be well controlled with painkillers.

Is it worth getting a breast lift without implants?

3 Benefits of a Breast Lift Without Implants

Improved breast shape, projection, and symmetry. Perkier breasts. Improved self-confidence, both in and out of your clothes.

What is the recovery time for a breast lift without implants?

A breast lift without implants generally involves a recovery period of several weeks. While patients can often return to non-strenuous activities and work within 1-2 weeks, it's crucial to avoid heavy lifting and rigorous exercises for about 4-6 weeks to allow optimal healing.

Is a breast lift more painful than implants?

Key Takeaway: Recovery time for a breast lift and breast augmentation is similar. Post-operative pain may be slightly higher for breast augmentation surgery.

What I wish I knew before a breast lift?

Although the surgery will give your breasts their youthful look back, it might not prevent future sagging. The results of a breast lift surgery might be further affected by age-related factors that lead to sagging. If you want the results to last longer, it is recommended to have stable weight.

Is breast uplift surgery painful?

What is the downside of breast lift?

Like any major surgery, a breast lift poses a risk of bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to the surgical tape or other materials used during or after the procedure.

What is the best age to get a breast lift?

Overall, there's no single best age for a breast lift. Once you're 18 years old, breasts are fully developed, so young women can consider breast lift surgery. Patients in their 50s to 70s with good overall health experience great results with breast lift surgery.

What does a boob lift cost?

The average cost of a breast lift (mastopexy) is $6,816, according to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This average cost is only part of the total price – it does not include anesthesia, operating room facilities or other related expenses.

Does anyone regret a breast lift?

After the procedure, you may find that you are unhappy with breast uplift surgery. This could be because of scarring, healing problems, or damage to the skin, tissue or nerves underneath. If you are not happy with your results, we advise that you speak to the professional who carried out the procedure.

Do they remove your nipples for breast lift?

The truth is that the nipples are kept on what we call a pedicle – a blood supply with an artery and a vein to allow the nipple and areola to get blood and oxygen. So, the nipple and areola are moved upward with breast tissue and soft tissue surrounding it. The entire mound gets elevated. There is no “cutting off”!

Will insurance pay for a breast lift?

Getting insurance coverage for a breast lift requires substantial medical evidence to support your claim. While most insurance providers classify breast lifts as cosmetic procedures, they may approve coverage if you can demonstrate genuine health issues that require surgical intervention.

How many cup sizes do you lose with a breast lift?

A few years ago, a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shed some light on this issue, finding that following a breast lift women reported they were wearing a smaller bra, with an average decrease of one bra cup size.

What do breast lift scars look like?

Once they have fully closed, you will typically have a raised line along the edges of the incision. The scars will initially be a purple or red colour but will fade to pink and ultimately end up as white or flesh-coloured. They'll also flatten out in texture.

How long is bed rest after breast lift?

It is best to wait until you have fully recovered after your surgery to begin sleeping on your stomach. In general, downtime after a breast lift should last around six weeks, at which point you can return to your daily routine without issue.

Can you fix saggy breasts without implants?

A breast lift without a breast implant allows the breast tissue to be lifted and rearranged to give a more youthful appearance. No breast tissue is removed with the procedure, but excess skin is removed and the remaining skin is tightened.

What is a donut breast lift?

A full lift incision extends down the front of the breast, and sometimes horizontally along the bottom of the breast. In the donut lift, a second circular incision is made around the smaller circular incision, and the skin in between these incisions is removed to tighten mildly drooping breasts.

Will I lose feeling in my nipples if I get a breast lift?

With breast reduction and lifts, much depends on the amount of tissue that's being removed. It's common to experience considerable loss of nipple sensation after these procedures. Only about 10 percent of women recover sensitivity over the following six to 12 months.

What is a lollipop lift?

The lollipop lift begins as the anchor lift does. The incision is made around the areola, and then an incision is made down the center of the lower breast. This is how it got the name lollipop. The incision looks like a lollipop on a stick. No further incisions are made, and there is no cut under the breast.

Do breast lifts sag over time?

The results of your breast lift surgery will be long-lasting. Over time, your breasts can continue to change due to aging and gravity. You'll be able to retain your new look longer if you: Maintain your weight.

How long will my breast lift last?

On average, breast lift results last for 10 to 15 years but can vary outside this range. The longevity of your results depends on several factors. Some patients may be happy with their results for several years, while others may return for minor revisions after just a few years.

Are there payment plans for breast lifts?

A breast lift is usually not covered by insurance,8 but many cosmetic surgery centers offer or accept financing such as the CareCredit credit card** for the procedure.

How can I lift my breasts naturally?

  1. Chest Press. The chest press focuses on the chest and pectoral muscles and engages the arms, shoulders and core. ...
  2. Chest Fly. The chest fly is similar to the chest press. ...
  3. Lateral Raises. ...
  4. Push-Ups. ...
  5. Wall Push-Ups. ...
  6. Dumbbell Pullovers. ...
  7. Arm Circles. ...
  8. Plank With Shoulder Taps.

How many sizes do you go down after breast lift?

When achieving a new breast shape and contour, you may likely require a new bra fit. Typically, a breast lift (medically referred to as mastopexy) reduces bra size by one cup.

How do breasts look after a lift?

Mastopexy can make your breasts look firmer and more youthful. A breast lift can also correct perceived imperfections, such as: Areolas that face downward.

Is 55 too old for breast lift?

In fact, women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s experience amazing results with breast lift surgery as long as they're in good overall health.

Previous article
Can a wet scalp cause hair loss?
Next article
What is the best time to run for fat burning?