A breast lift removes extra skin and usually requires repositioning the nipple. Breast augmentation is the addition of breast implants. Many times, these two procedures are performed together.

Yes, correcting droopy breasts is a major goal of a breast lift. Droopiness is caused by stretched skin and loss of tissue volume, and removing the excess skin restores a more youthful shape and contour. In some cases, additional volume is needed to achieve the desired look of the patient, so implants are added to the breast lift procedure.

In some cases, implants alone can give the appearance of a breast lift because it adds upper fullness. However, this is only possible for women whose nipples are currently above the skin fold of the breast. In other cases, women require a breast lift (perhaps in addition to breast implants) to achieve desired fullness.

It depends. Everyone ages differently, and if you have additional children in the future, major weight fluctuations, or simply less collagen and elastin genetically, you may need additional breast surgeries in the future. However, a breast lift can dramatically reduce the odds of future cosmetic breast surgeries or delay additional surgeries by several years. The best way to decrease the odds of additional surgeries is to choose a reputable surgeon the first time, carefully follow after-care instructions, and avoid extreme weight swings and pregnancy in the future.

Breast lifts remove excess skin and usually reposition the nipple. The result is younger, perkier breasts. A breast lift is not the same as breast implants, though sometimes implants can be used in conjunction with a breast lift procedure for enhanced results.

It is a risk. Any surgery comes with potential side effects, and nipple sensation is dictated by a myriad of nerves in and around the area. However, most breast lift patients do not lose nipple sensation. A highly-skilled surgeon will give you the best chance of preventing loss of nipple sensation after breast surgery.

Breast lift incision options vary and include the classic crescent (incision in the fold of the breast), lollipop (where the incision circles the nipple before anchoring down to the crescent incision), and Benelli. Which incision you get is dependent on many factors, including your breasts, the amount of skin to be removed, and goals. However, these options are discussed during consultations, and patients are aware of what type of incision they’ll receive before surgery day.

It varies based on the person, incision type, and whether or not you also opt for breast implants. However, after two weeks most patients can return to their gentler activities of daily living. Your surgeon will tell you when it’s safe to resume more demanding activities such as going to the gym. Proper rest and downtime is critical for the best recovery—and the best results.