Breast Lift
Questions

Q - What is a breast lift?
The breast lift, known technically as mastopexy, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the tissue and nipples. If necessary, the size of the areolas can be reduced during surgery as well. Patients seeking additional firmness and size can opt to have an implant inserted during surgery.

Q - Is a breast lift right for me?
If you are a healthy woman who has realistic expectations for improvement and are looking to improve sagging breasts, you may be a good candidate for a breast lift. Women who are planning future pregnancy may be advised to postpone surgery.

Q - What does a consultation for a breast lift entail?
During a consultation for a breast lift, Dr. Berman will examine and measure your breasts, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for the breast lift?
General anesthesia is most often used during breast lift surgery, though local anesthesia and sedation may also be an option.

Q - How is the breast lift performed?
The incision for the breast is shaped like an anchor and runs around the areola, extending downward in a vertical line, and then running horizontally along the crease below the breast. Excess skin is removed and the nipple and areola are relocated to a higher position. A less extensive incision may be made for women with smaller breasts and minimal sagging.

Q - How long does the breast lift take to perform?
The breast lift takes one to three hours to complete.

Q - Where are the incisions made for the breast lift?
The incision for the breast follows the shape of an anchor, running around the areola, extending downward in a vertical line, and then running horizontally along the crease beneath the breast. Women with smaller breasts and minimal sagging may be candidates for a less extensive procedure involving a smaller incision.

Q - Does the breast lift leave scars?
The incision made for the breast lift does result in a scar and can be extensive. It is typically in the shape of an anchor, located around the areola, extending downward in a vertical line, and then running horizontally below the breast crease. A less extensive incision may be an option for women with smaller breasts and minimal sagging.

Q - Does the breast lift involve much pain?
Patients may experience some discomfort after the breast lift procedure and medication can help to control this.

Q - What is the recovery like after the breast lift?
Recovery after the breast lift can take one or more weeks. Swelling and bruising are common, and some numbness can occur as well. Once the bandages are removed, patients will need to wear a soft support bra for three to four weeks.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing a breast lift?
Patients may be able to return to work within one or more weeks after the breast lift.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my breast lift?
Patients will need to wait about a month before partaking in strenuous activities and exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my breast lift procedure?
The stitches are removed in about one to two weeks after the breast lift.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with the breast lift?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with the breast lift may include infection, changes in nipples or breast sensation, bleeding, and excessive scarring.

Q - Is the breast lift covered by insurance?
Breast lifts performed for purely cosmetic purposes are usually not covered by insurance, though some amount of coverage may be available when performed out of necessity. Patients should be certain to check with their own insurance companies.

Q - Can I finance my breast lift?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: