What I wish I knew before a breast lift?

Author: Zachariah Paucek V  |  Last update: Saturday, August 23, 2025

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.

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 pinch test for breast lift?

Once your fingers are positioned, bring your thumb down to meet them, pinching the skin between. If your thumb meets the breast skin above the nipple rather than below, it suggests noticeable sagging that may warrant consideration of a breast lift procedure to achieve a more lifted and youthful appearance.

What to know before getting a breast lift?

Get a baseline mammogram before surgery and another one after surgery to help detect any future changes in your breast tissue. Stop smoking. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.

What is the best age to get a breast lift?

It is not uncommon for women to wait until they are in their mid- to late-40s to receive a breast lift. Between the ages of 46 and 50, there is a very good chance that the time is right for you to undergo mastopexy.

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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.

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.

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”!

How to get a breast lift covered by insurance?

A Physician's Letter: Insurance companies usually require a detailed letter from the patient's primary care physician or surgeon explaining the medical necessity of their breast lift procedure. This letter should outline the physical symptoms and any treatments tried previously.

What is the pencil test for breast lift?

For this test, a pencil is placed under the breasts at the point where the underside of the breast meets the chest wall (known as the inframammary crease). If the pencil stays in place (rather than falling down) once you release the breast, it may have sagged enough that a breast lift procedure might be in order.

What is the three finger test for breasts?

With the pads of your three middle fingers, press on every part of one breast. Use light pressure, then medium, then firm. Feel for any lumps, thick spots or other changes. A circular pattern may help you make sure you hit every spot.

What is the code for breast lift?

CPT® Code 19316 - Repair and/or Reconstruction Procedures on the Breast - Codify by AAPC.

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.

What is the safest breast lift?

Crescent Lift

This is the least invasive kind of breast lift, as the incisions are very small and typically the surgeon removes only a small amount of skin.

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.

Why is breast lift so expensive?

The cost of a breast lift varies widely depending on the following factors: Surgeon's Expertise: Highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons may charge more for their expertise, but their skill often translates into safer procedures and better outcomes.

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.

Is there a scarless breast lift?

Scarless breast lift

Scarless lifts are ideal for women with mild sagging and excellent skin elasticity. If your breasts show minor drooping but maintain their overall shape, a scarless lift can provide the subtle enhancement you desire.

What size breasts qualify for reduction?

There is no specific minimum breast size for reduction, as it depends on the individual's body proportions and preferences. However, surgeons typically recommend that patients have at least a C cup or larger to be considered good candidates for breast reduction surgery.

How long is downtime for breast lift?

Many women go back to desk work and gentle activities such as walking about a week afterward. You may not be cleared for vigorous activities, such as lifting things, exercising and having sex, for up to six weeks. Usually, women can wear a regular bra about eight weeks after surgery.

Why is my stomach bigger after breast reduction?

It's normal for the midriff area to be slightly swollen and bloated after surgery. This is due to the body sending more white blood cells and proteins to the area to promote healing - so it's actually quite important to be a little bloated!

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.

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.

What's cheaper breast lift or implants?

Generally, breast implants cost less than breast lifts because lifts are more complex. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation surgery costs an average of $4,294 [2]. The latest statistics show a breast lift procedure costs an average of $5,817 [3].

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