According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), over 150,000 breast lift procedures were performed in 2024.1 The growing popularity of this surgery is largely due to its ability to create a more youthful and lifted bustline.
Dr. John Connors – our double board-certified Atlanta plastic surgeon – is proud to offer this transformative procedure, which he has been performing and perfecting for the past 30 years. With an artistic approach and advanced surgical techniques, he can help you achieve natural-looking, confidence-boosting results.
- Sedation: General anesthesia
- Potential Benefits: Firmer, “perkier” breasts; dramatic reduction of breast sag (“ptosis”); improved symmetry between breasts; altered appearance of the nipples and areolas
- Longevity of Results: Variable
- Recovery: Patients can generally return to work in a few days; intensive exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks
What Are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?
A breast lift at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta can:
- Reduce breast sagging (ptosis)
- Create a more youthful, “perkier” aesthetic
- Raise and tighten the breasts
- Address asymmetry
- Improve nipple location
- Minimize the size of the areolas for a more desirable appearance
- Decrease chafing under the breasts
Am I a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
Candidates for mastopexy should primarily want to combat ptosis (i.e., breasts that sag significantly below the crease line). They may also wish to address asymmetry, downward-pointing breasts, overly large nipples and/or areolas, and skin irregularities.
If you are interested in a breast lift, you must be in good overall health and maintain a stable weight. Ideally, you should also be a non-smoker or be willing to quit before and after surgery.
Breast Lift Video
Complementary Procedures to Breast Lift Surgery
A breast lift can often be combined with other surgeries for a more comprehensive outcome. As mentioned above, patients may benefit from pairing their mastopexy with either breast augmentation or reduction depending on their individual case. They may also choose to incorporate body contouring procedures – such as tummy tuck surgery or a Brazilian butt lift – to produce a more sculpted, proportionate silhouette.
Many women opt to include a breast lift as part of a “mommy makeover,” a combination of treatments designed to restore pre-pregnancy contours. This comprehensive option can include a combination of breast, body, facial, and even non-surgical procedures, customized to meet each patient’s unique aesthetic goals. To learn more about the mommy makeover process, we welcome you to schedule your preoperative appointment with our staff.
What Does the Breast Lift Procedure Involve?
There are several incision patterns that may be employed to perform mastopexy:
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Periareolar incision
Made around the edge of the areola; often suitable for patients with mild sagging. Dr. Connors rarely recommends this procedure as it may distort the natural shape and projection of the breast.
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Vertical (or “lollipop”) incision
Extends around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease
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Anchor (or “T”) incision
Follows the same pattern as the lollipop incision but includes an additional horizontal incision along the breast fold, which is used to reduce the skin envelope and shape and cone the breast more precisely. For the most dramatic, natural-looking effects, our surgeon most often uses this strategy.
Once the incisions are made, Dr. Connors can remove excess skin, reshape tissue, and reposition the nipple and areola as needed. The size of the areola can also be reduced to better suit the new breast shape.
For augmentation-mastopexy cases, Dr. Connors may recommend the biplanar (or dual-plane) method, in which implants are placed under the pectoralis muscle and within the breast tissue. In his professional experience, this strategy can provide exceptional support and beautiful, natural-looking effects.
For an even more optimal outcome, our surgeon frequently employs the innovative SAFELipo® framing strategy during the breast lift procedure. This specialized technique, which involves liposuction of the lateral chest and axilla, can create a more harmonious appearance and improve the overall shape of the area, making it a common addition to all types of breast enhancement surgery.
Sutures are secured within the breast tissue to maintain the lifted position. The incisions are then carefully closed to promote optimal healing and minimal scarring.
“As always… everyone was amazing!"
Will a Breast Lift Leave Scars?
Some scarring is unavoidable with a breast lift, as incisions are necessary to reshape and elevate the breasts. With this in mind, Dr. Connors utilizes precise surgical techniques to place incisions in discreet locations whenever possible, helping to minimize their visibility. Over time, any scars that appear should fade to a natural skin tone.
If you are interested in a procedure to potentially reduce scarring, ask about the state-of-the-art BRIJJIT® device during your preoperative appointment. BRIJJIT® is an advanced option designed to offload tension from healing incisions. It can minimize scar formation and promote optimal skin healing following surgery.
Furthermore, most of our patients at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta find that the transformative results of a breast lift far outweigh any scarring.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
The cost of breast lift surgery in Atlanta can depend on:
- The surgical technique used
- The incorporation of other treatments (e.g., implants)
- Anesthesia and facility fees
- Preoperative or postoperative care
Our practice offers financing options through CareCredit® and ALPHAEON® CREDIT, which can allow eligible patients to pay for their care through convenient monthly installments. Our team will be happy to discuss the financial aspect of your experience and answer any questions that may arise.
Breast Lift FAQs
Is breast lift surgery painful?
Because it is usually performed under general anesthesia, most patients are comfortable throughout breast lift surgery. After the procedure, some swelling and mild discomfort around the chest are normal as your body begins to heal. These sensations are usually well-managed with pain medication and should subside within a few days to a week.
Is breast lift surgery safe?
Breast lift surgery is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon (such as Dr. Connors) in an accredited surgical center. As with any procedure, however, there are potential complications, which include bleeding, infection, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.2
Rest assured that these concerns are rare at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta, where Dr. Connors prioritizes proper patient selection, thorough preoperative evaluation, and adherence to safety protocols.
Can breast lift surgery change the size of my breasts?
Breast lift surgery alone cannot significantly change the volume of your breasts. If you would like to reduce or increase breast size in addition to lifting, combining a breast lift with breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended.
Our team at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta looks forward to guiding you through your breast lift journey. Contact us today to schedule your preoperative appointment with Dr. Connors!
Medical Resources
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)1
University of Utah Health2
