Verified by Edna Skopljak MD
Edna Skopljak is a medical doctor and an editor at BJBMS medical journal. She graduated from the University of Sarajevo School of Science and Technology.
A breast lift can provide various benefits to individuals seeking the procedure. It is important to understand the pros and cons of breast lift surgery before making a decision to follow through with this procedure.
Let’s go through the positives and negatives to help you make an informed choice.
Pros of breast lift:
There are quite a few positives to a breast lift surgery, including enhanced shape and position, improved self-confidence, restoring a youthful appearance, and the fact that it can be combined with other procedures such as breast augmentation.
Improves the shape and position of the breasts:
Breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts. One of the main benefits of a breast lift is the improved appearance in the shape and the contour of the breasts.
Enhances self-confidence:
Individuals regularly report feeling more confident with themselves and comfortable in their clothing after a breast lift. In addition, a more positive self-image can be felt thanks to the corrected position and breast shape after this surgery.
Restores a youthful appearance:
Removing excess skin and tightening the remaining tissue, this procedure is used to create a firmer and more youthful appearance.
It can be combined with other procedures, such as breast augmentation:
While undergoing anesthesia for a breast lift, your cosmetic surgeon may also be able to combine this procedure with others, such as a breast augmentation.
Cons of breast lift:
While the pros of a breast lift procedure can be very attractive, there are also cons to consider. Just a few negatives include that the procedure is invasive with a long recovery time, the risk of scarring, the possibility of complications such as infection or tissue loss, the need for follow-up surgeries, and the expensive cost.
Invasive procedure with a long recovery time:
The recovery time varies by patient, but on average, the Mayo Clinic quotes that patients will be swollen and bruised for at least two weeks, and you will need to wear a recovery support bra for four weeks or longer.
Risk of scarring:
Scarring from a breast lift will occur around the areola, down the front of the breast, and under the breast. Some individuals may develop keloid scars which are thick and raised.
Possibility of complications such as infection or tissue loss:
Any major surgery will pose the risk of developing an infection at the incision sites, which can lead to a loss of tissue or the need for follow-up surgeries.
Need for follow-up surgeries:
A breast lift typically lasts around 10-15 years until a follow-up surgery is needed. Weight change, gravity, and aging can lead to the breasts beginning to drop again, and surgery is required to correct the issue in the future.
Expensive cost:
The cost of breast lift surgery varies by city and state, but on average, a breast lift will cost around $5000. This expensive cost, coupled with the recovery time, can be a deterrent for some individuals seeking the procedure.
Ultimately, the pros and cons of a breast lift need to be looked at carefully. The surgery can be a highly effective procedure offering many benefits.
However, it is wise to look at the potential drawbacks. In conclusion, consulting with your physician and coming to a conclusion with the help of a medical professional will be the ideal way to determine if this surgery is right for you.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-lift/about/pac-20393218
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23298-breast-lift
