Breast Lift

Overview

A breast lift (mastopexy) reshapes the breast and elevates the nipple-areola complex to a higher, more youthful position. It does not change cup size meaningfully; for added volume, a lift is combined with an implant or fat transfer. The scar pattern is determined by how much skin needs to be removed.

Dr. Altman’s approach

The right lift produces the most natural shape with the least visible scar that the patient’s anatomy will allow.

• Periareolar (donut) lift: for minimal ptosis; circular scar around the areola.
• Vertical (lollipop) lift: for moderate ptosis; scar around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
• Anchor (inverted-T) lift: for significant ptosis; adds a scar along the breast crease.
• Tissue rearrangement matters more than skin removal alone. The internal “auto-augmentation” technique reshapes the breast mound itself, producing a fuller upper pole and longer-lasting result.

Who it’s for

Mastopexy is appropriate for patients with ptosis (drooping) after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or aging, who want a higher, more youthful breast shape without necessarily changing volume. Patients with significant volume loss usually benefit from a lift combined with augmentation.

Recovery, week by week

• Week 1: Surgical bra full-time; rest at home; most patients return to desk work by day 5–7.
• Weeks 2–4: Light activity; walking encouraged; no overhead lifting.
• Weeks 4–6: Resume aerobic exercise; return to chest and shoulder workouts.
• Months 3–12: Scars fade and soften; final shape settles.

Results

The breasts sit higher on the chest, with a natural shape and a nipple-areola complex centered at the proper meridian. Scars are permanent but typically fade significantly over the first year.