Why Consider a Breast Lift?
Breast ptosis, or sagging, is characterized by nipples that have drooped below the inframammary fold (breast crease) and sometimes point downward. This is often the result of breast gland atrophy after breastfeeding, but normal changes that come with age will also contribute to this condition.
Double board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli perform breast lift surgery (mastopexy) in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, to restore the teardrop shape of the breasts and bring the nipple to a higher, more youthful position in line with the inframammary fold (IMF), or fold where the breast meets the chest.
If you want to enhance your breasts and live in South Jersey or along the Shore, choose one of our experienced breast lift surgeons with skills that exceed your expectations.
Mastopexy Before and After
A Consultation That's All About You
Whether you work with Dr. Bidic or Dr. Gundlapalli, you’re hands. They are known for spending a great deal of time with each of their patients. They’ll listen intently to your goals, concerns, and expectations and will make sure you feel knowledgeable and confident about your procedure.
During your consultation, you will discuss a number of options for your breast lift, including:
- Your incision - typically the "lollipop" incision or an "inverted T" incision.
- The need for additional procedures - we’ll often add breast augmentation to address loss of tissue volume.
Your surgeon will use 3-D digital photography and imaging to help you evaluate your options and preview what you might look like after a procedure. This allows you and the doctor to get a complete visual understanding of your goals and develop a surgical plan that achieves your envisioned outcome.
Are You a Good Breast Lift Candidate?
Breasts, like the rest of the body, can show the effects of aging. Skin loses its elasticity, and gravity begins to cause sagging. Younger women can also experience sagging, particularly after pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you're disappointed with the appearance of your breasts because of sagging, a breast lift can give you a more youthful shape. Other general guidelines that make you a good candidate for a mastopexy:
- You are in good physical health. Healthy patients generally tolerate the recovery process very well.
- You don't smoke. If you are a smoker, you should stop at least six weeks before the surgery. Smoking is linked to an increased risk of complications and slows down the healing process.
- You are finished with childbearing and breastfeeding. Pregnancy after breast lift surgery will likely stretch the skin and may compromise your cosmetic results. It's usually a good idea to postpone cosmetic surgery until after you've finished having children.
- You have realistic expectations. Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli believe in being open and candid when discussing the results each of their patients can hope to achieve.
Read what our patients are saying!
" I came into the office for a Breast Reduction and saw Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli. He was amazing from start to finish. He answered my questions thoroughly and made me feel at ease when I was so nervous to have this procedure done. He has such great bedside manners and made sure that I was completely comfortable in every aspect. I had my procedure done in June and it was honestly the best decision I ever made. I cannot thank Dr. Gundlapalli enough for everything he did for me. I will be forever thankful. He is such a great doctor and his staff is amazing. I am grateful for Jessica, his assistant, as she speaks Spanish and made the transition very easy for me. I am now looking into getting a Blepharoplasty with Dr. Gundlapalli as I will never go anywhere else for any services. Very satisfied patient. "
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The Breast Lift Procedure
The mastopexy is an outpatient procedure that usually requires about an hour of surgical time. After you are under general anesthesia, your surgeon will make the incisions you chose during your consultation. If possible for the patient, Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli prefer to make the marks on the patient the night before the procedure. They most commonly use two incisions:
Lollipop incision: This method involves an incision completely around the areola and another incision from the bottom of the areola vertically down to the IMF.
Inverted-T incision: Also called an anchor incision, this technique is like the lollipop incision but with an additional incision along the IMF. It is used when the areola is significantly below the IMF, and the breast requires a further reduction in redundant skin to produce the desired teardrop shape.
After the surgeon has made the incisions, he removes excess skin, allowing him to reposition the nipple higher and reshape the inferior pole (bottom) of the breast for a more desirable, youthful, and natural-looking appearance.
Many women choose to add breast augmentation to address atrophy or simply provide additional volume.
Mastopexy Before and After
How Should I Prepare for a Breast Lift Surgery?
Our team will provide a detailed checklist to make sure you're fully prepared for your transformation, but here are some general tips to prepare for your breast lift:
- Medical Evaluation: Complete any required medical tests and discuss your full medical history with your surgeon to ensure you're fit for surgery.
- Medication Adjustments: Stop taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as instructed to reduce bleeding risks.
- Smoking Cessation: Quit smoking at least six weeks before surgery to improve healing and decrease surgery risks.
- Nutritional Guidelines: Eat a balanced diet of proteins and vitamins, and reduce alcohol intake to support your recovery.
- Home Preparation: Set up a comfortable recovery area with essentials within easy reach and prepare meals in advance to ease your recovery period.
- Arrange for Help: Organize a ride to and from the surgery center and ensure you have someone to assist you during the first few days post-surgery.
What to Expect After Surgery
Once you are awake, the cosmetic surgeon will examine you and, if you are cleared, allow you to go home. You will need someone to drive you. We’ll advise you not to lift anything greater than 15 pounds, to keep your heart rate below 100, and to avoid soaking the incisions for three weeks. Your doctor may prescribe some light overhead exercises. You can resume driving the day after surgery and return to work after 48 hours as long as you can still observe the other restrictions.
How Long Will the Results Last?
In most cases, the results of breast lift surgery last many years. As a woman ages, though, her body continues to change, so some sagging may return in time. Significant shifts in weight, as well as pregnancies, can also cause the breasts to sag. However, if you remain at a stable weight, you will likely enjoy your results for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Breast Lift or Breast Reduction?
A breast lift eliminates excess skin and moves the nipple to a more youthful position while raising the breast mound, whereas a breast reduction also removes excess fat and breast tissue. Both will remove some volume, but a breast reduction aims to reduce the size of the breast by removing breast tissue. Your surgeon can help you decide which option will suit your goals.
Can I Combine a Breast Lift With Other Procedures?
Yes. At our New Jersey practice, our surgeons frequently combine breast lift surgery with augmentation. Many women who have had children choose to get a mommy makeover, which typically combines cosmetic breast surgery (including a lift when needed) with a tummy tuck and liposuction.
How Do I Know If I Am a Candidate for a Combined Procedure Like a Breast Lift With Augmentation?
If you desire not just a lift but also more volume, combining breast lift with augmentation might be ideal. This is typically suited for those who have experienced significant volume loss or want a more pronounced shape. During your consultation, we'll discuss whether this combination can best achieve your desired results.
Will a Breast Lift Reduce the Size of My Areolae?
A breast lift involves incisions around the areola, so areola reduction can be part of the lift if you wish. Stretched areolae are common among women with sagging breasts. That said, if you are happy with the size of your areolae, the surgeon will not adjust them. Discuss your concerns during your consultation to ensure your surgeon understands your cosmetic goals.
What Are the Risks Associated With a Breast Lift?
While a breast lift can beautifully rejuvenate your appearance, like any surgery, it comes with some risks. These include typical surgical risks like infection and scarring, as well as changes in nipple or breast sensation. However, a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Bidic or Dr. Gundlapalli will minimize these risks as they bring expertise and precision to every procedure.
What Type of Follow-Up Is Required After a Breast Lift?
Typically, you'll visit us a few days after the surgery, then at intervals over the next year. These appointments allow us to monitor your recovery and are a great opportunity to address any concerns you may have.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The price of breast lift surgery in New Jersey varies depending on several factors, including the techniques used and whether it's combined with breast augmentation. Cosmetic surgery costs also vary from region to region and depend on the surgeon's training and experience. At American Surgical Arts, a breast lift without implants (called mastopexy) typically costs from $6,000 to $6,500. Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli strive to maintain competitive breast lift costs in New Jersey, and they offer financing options for mastopexy to help their patients achieve their dream results.
Are There Non-Surgical Alternatives to a Breast Lift?
For those hesitant about surgery, there are non-surgical options, such as BodyTite, that can improve breast appearance. Though less dramatic, these treatments can subtly enhance breast position and skin quality. We're happy to explore these alternatives during your consultation to find the right fit for your needs and lifestyle.
How Is the Pain Managed After a Breast Lift?
Managing your discomfort post-surgery is a priority for us. We typically prescribe pain medication to help you stay comfortable in the initial recovery days. Many patients find the pain quite manageable and quickly transition to over-the-counter pain relievers.
What Are the Signs of Complications I Should Watch for After My Surgery?
It's vital to watch for signs like unusual swelling, redness, or discharge at the surgery site, as well as fever or severe pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to contact us immediately so we can address them.
Can I Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?
Many women are able to breastfeed after a breast lift. However, certain surgical techniques might affect this ability. If breastfeeding is a priority for you, make sure to discuss this with us during your consultation so we can plan your surgery accordingly.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
Interested in learning more about breast lift surgery? Call 888-309-8892 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Bidic & Dr. Gundlapalli, two of the top breast lift surgeons in New Jersey. Our practice serves Mullica Hill, South Jersey, and all nearby areas.