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Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Women from Frisco, Plano, and throughout North Texas, trust Dr. Geo Tabbal to perform breast lift surgery (also called mastopexy) to restore an uplifted, more youthful appearance to sagging, often deflated breasts. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and genetics can all contribute to breast sagging, also known as breast ptosis. Over time, these changes can stretch the skin and supporting tissues of the breasts, causing them to lose their youthful position and shape. 

Breast lift surgery (mastopexy) is designed to elevate and reshape the breasts by removing excess stretched skin, repositioning the nipples and areolae, and recontouring the underlying breast tissue. For many women, a breast lift not only restores a more youthful breast contour and improved symmetry but also renews confidence and allows clothing and swimwear to fit more comfortably.

Women from Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, Allen, and throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area trust board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Geo Tabbal for personalized breast lift surgery tailored to their unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Considering a breast lift with Dr. Tabbal?
Request a consultation today, or give us a call at (214) 618-3006 to schedule an appointment.

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What Is a Breast Lift?

Breast lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to elevate and reshape the breasts for a more youthful, rejuvenated contour. Dr. Tabbal removes excess skin and tissue — commonly caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or aging — and repositions the breasts higher on the chest wall. The nipple-areolar complex can also be lifted and resized to complement the improved breast shape and create a more natural overall appearance.

Customizing Your Mastopexy

Dr. Tabbal takes a personalized approach to every mastopexy, carefully tailoring each procedure to the unique needs and aesthetic goals of the patient. During your consultation, he will thoroughly assess your breast tissue, areola, nipple position, symmetry, and skin elasticity before developing a detailed surgical plan with your desired outcome in mind. His precise technique and dedicated post-operative care work together to help patients achieve beautiful, long-lasting results with a smooth and efficient recovery.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Lift Surgery?

In addition to elevating the breasts to a more youthful position on the chest wall, mastopexy can be tailored to address several other aesthetic concerns. Depending on your individual needs and goals, this procedure can correct breast ptosis, tighten or remove loose and excess skin, and recontour breast tissue for a more symmetrical and pleasing shape. Dr. Tabbal can also reduce and reposition the areola to better complement the overall result. Beyond the physical improvements, many patients find that the renewed appearance of their breasts has a profoundly positive impact on their self-confidence and overall sense of well-being.

With a variety of mastopexy techniques available, Dr. Tabbal’s extensive training and experience allow him to personalize each procedure to fit your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, he will walk you through the entire treatment process and ensure you have a thorough understanding of all important considerations before moving forward with surgery.

Am I a Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?

Close-up of a woman's upper torso in a beige bra with thin straps, showing her collarbone and shoulder.

Whereas breast augmentation is designed to add volume, the primary goal with a breast lift is to take stretched, sagging breast tissue and lift and sculpt it to a more youthful shape and position. Ideal candidates for breast lift surgery are generally satisfied with the size of their breasts, often finding the volume acceptable when supported in a bra. However, they usually find that weakened skin and tissue allow the breasts to droop and sag without that support.

Potential candidates are typically experiencing moderate to severe breast sagging, which may present as breasts that droop below the inframammary fold, an elongated breast shape with fullness concentrated near the nipple, downward-pointing nipples, or skin and nipples with a noticeably stretched appearance. Some patients also find that breast drooping interferes with certain physical activities, further motivating them to seek a long-term solution.

 

  • Your breasts sit lower than you would like
  • Your nipples point downward
  • You have lost breast shape after pregnancy or weight loss
  • One breast sits lower than the other
  • You have excess stretched skin
  • You are in good general health
  • You have realistic expectations about surgery

To determine whether mastopexy is the right choice, Dr. Tabbal can assess a patient’s anatomy and skin quality, review their medical history, and participate in an in-depth discussion of their aesthetic concerns and goals. If a breast lift is not the most suitable option, Dr. Tabbal can suggest alternative approaches to help achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.

Whereas breast augmentation adds volume, the primary goal with a breast lift is to take stretched, sagging breast tissue and lift and sculpt it to a more youthful shape and position.

Will I Need Implants with My Breast Lift?

One of the most important considerations when planning a mastopexy is whether breast implants should be incorporated into the procedure. A breast lift alone is designed to restore a more youthful shape and position, not to add volume. Some women desire both improved breast position and increased volume. In these cases, Dr. Tabbal may recommend combining breast lift surgery with breast augmentation. A breast lift with implants can restore upper pole fullness, improve cleavage, and create a fuller, more youthful breast shape while simultaneously correcting breast ptosis.

When performing a breast lift with implants, Dr. Tabbal carefully considers implant size to ensure the long-term success of the procedure. Implants that are too large can place excessive weight on the breast skin, which has already demonstrated a tendency to stretch, ultimately compromising the results over time. Oversized implants can also pose risks to nipple blood flow and may contribute to unfavorable scarring. By selecting the appropriate implant size for each patient’s unique anatomy, Dr. Tabbal is able to significantly reduce these risks and help achieve a beautiful, lasting outcome.

Person in a white sports bra holds two round silicone breast implants in each hand.
Before-and-After Breast Lift Results
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What Are the Different Breast Lift Types?

In most cases, the extent of your surgery directly relates to the degree of sagging, or ptosis, of your breasts. The greater the descent or fall of the breast tissue, the more extensive the technique. This corresponds with three different incision techniques:

Larger, heavier breasts are more likely to need a lollipop or anchor incision, but the choice ultimately depends on each patient’s unique anatomy and degree of ptosis. During your consultation, Dr. Tabbal will evaluate your individual needs, walk you through your options, and recommend the most appropriate technique to achieve your desired outcome.

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What Does the Breast Lift Procedure Involve?

Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure and generally takes approximately two to four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments are performed simultaneously. During surgery, excess skin is removed and the breast tissues are reshaped and elevated to a higher, perkier position on the chest wall. Once the ideal contour and position have been achieved, the skin is pulled taut and reattached beneath the breasts for a smoother, firmer result.

A key aspect of Dr. Tabbal’s surgical approach is minimizing tissue trauma to support a more comfortable recovery with less downtime. He takes great care to avoid unnecessary contact with surrounding structures, employing precise dissection methods that reduce pulling on the tissues.

Each incisional pattern carries its own set of advantages and considerations, all of which will be discussed in detail during your consultation. Together, you and Dr. Tabbal will be able to review your options and determine which technique is best suited to achieve your aesthetic goals.

What Does the Breast Lift Recovery Entail?

Breast lift is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be released to the loving care of a friend or family member the same morning or afternoon as your surgery. The recovery can be relatively well tolerated, as most patients return to normal activities within a few days. As with all surgical procedures, Dr. Tabbal generally limits any strenuous activities for approximately two weeks following your surgery, while some exercises (like yoga or weightlifting) demand additional time for your incisions to heal without tension, to help minimize their size, appearance, and visibility.

What Post-Operative Care Is Needed After a Breast Lift?

Some degree of soreness and swelling is common in the early stages of recovery, particularly for patients who also had implants placed. However, these symptoms can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and should gradually subside as healing progresses. 

Dr. Tabbal and his team are committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the entire recovery process. Following your procedure, you will receive detailed post-operative care instructions, and several follow-up appointments will be scheduled so that Dr. Tabbal can closely monitor your healing and promptly address any questions or concerns you may have along the way.

What should I avoid after breast lift surgery?

Taking an active role in your recovery can have a meaningful impact on both your comfort and your final results. To protect your healing and help ensure optimal outcomes, patients are often advised to avoid the following after surgery:

  • Sleeping on your stomach or side, as this places unnecessary pressure on the breasts during the early stages of healing.
  • Bearing weight on your arms or using them for support for at least the first 48 hours, to avoid straining the chest area.
  • Submerging your incisions in water, including swimming or bathing, until Dr. Tabbal confirms it is safe to do so.
  • Applying pressure to the chest region in any form that could disrupt the healing tissues.
  • Consuming alcohol, which can interfere with the healing process and interact with post-operative medications.
  • Transitioning to a non-surgical bra too soon, as proper support is essential during the early recovery period.
  • Smoking or using any nicotine products, which can significantly impair circulation and slow the healing of incisions.
  • Lifting or pushing heavy objects, which can place undue stress on the breasts and surrounding tissues.

How Noticeable Are Breast Lift Scars?

The visibility of scarring following mastopexy depends largely on the incision technique used. The lollipop approach usually results in a vertical scar running from the areola down to the breast crease, while the anchor technique produces that same vertical scar along with an additional horizontal scar along the inframammary fold. The periareolar technique, which is less frequently required, typically yields the least visible scarring, as the incision line blends naturally into the border of the areola.

While some degree of scarring is an expected part of any breast lift procedure, Dr. Tabbal employs meticulous wound closure techniques designed to minimize their appearance as much as possible. It is also worth noting that breast lift scars tend to fade and flatten considerably over time. The vast majority of patients find that the rejuvenating benefits of mastopexy far outweigh any concerns about residual surgical marks.

How Can I Preserve My Breast Lift Results?

The internal reshaping and tightening achieved through mastopexy can produce long-lasting results; however, the natural effects of aging, genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes may gradually influence the outcome over time. Patients can help preserve their results by wearing supportive bras, maintaining a stable weight through a healthy diet and exercise routine, avoiding smoking, keeping the skin well moisturized, and limiting sun exposure while consistently applying sunscreen.

Dr. Tabbal also recommends that patients consider the timing of their procedure carefully. Since pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter the shape and position of the breasts, it is usually advisable to delay mastopexy until after completing your family in order to protect and maintain the longevity of your results.

Can I Breastfeed After Breast Lift Surgery?

Many women are able to retain the ability to breastfeed following mastopexy. It is worth noting, however, that some women are naturally unable to breastfeed regardless of whether they have undergone breast surgery. For those who do have this ability, this procedure can be tailored to preserve the milk ducts and other structures essential to lactation. If breastfeeding is a priority for you, it is important to share this with Dr. Tabbal during your consultation so that he can plan the procedure with these goals in mind.

That said, Dr. Tabbal generally advises patients to postpone mastopexy until they have completed their families and no longer plan to nurse. The physical changes that commonly accompany pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the shape and position of the breasts, potentially compromising the results of surgery and creating the need for a future revision procedure.

Mother gently cradles a newborn baby in her arms, supporting the baby's head with both hands.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?

Because every woman presents with different anatomy and goals, the cost of breast lift surgery in Frisco and Dallas can vary considerably. Factors influencing cost include the degree of breast ptosis, surgical complexity, whether implants are used, and surgeon, anesthesia, and facility fees. While the cost of breast lift surgery can vary, the more important factors in determining price include:

A personalized cost estimate will be provided following your consultation with Dr. Tabbal once a tailored treatment plan has been established.

Dr. Tabbal and his team understand that cost is an important consideration for many patients and are committed to making treatment as accessible as possible. In addition to accepting a variety of payment methods, the practice offers flexible financing options for qualified applicants through PatientFi® and CareCredit®.

Is a Non-Surgical Breast Lift Possible?

At this time, surgery remains the most effective solution for achieving a more youthful, elevated breast appearance. While alternative approaches such as chest exercises and weightlifting are often promoted as non-surgical options, these methods are limited to reducing fat and strengthening the underlying pectoral muscles. They cannot address the skin laxity or tissue changes responsible for breast ptosis. 

For patients seeking a meaningful and lasting improvement, mastopexy performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon is the only proven method for lifting drooping breasts, removing excess or stretched skin, and recontouring the breast tissue.

What Procedures Can Complement Breast Lift Surgery?

While mastopexy can be a highly rewarding procedure on its own, some patients may wish to address additional aesthetic concerns at the same time. Dr. Tabbal commonly performs a range of complementary procedures that can be thoughtfully combined with a breast lift to further enhance the breast and body contour.

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation can enhance the size and shape of the breasts using silicone or saline implants. When combined with a mastopexy, this approach, often referred to as a breast lift with augmentation, can help restore both volume and a more youthful position for a fuller, more rejuvenated result.

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction can address the physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns associated with overly large breasts, reducing their size and reshaping them to a more proportionate profile relative to the patient’s frame.

Liposuction

Liposuction, a popular body contouring procedure, can remove stubborn excess fat from the body using a thin cannula, helping to sculpt and refine the overall physique in ways that diet and exercise alone may not achieve.

Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck helps repair and tighten stretched abdominal muscles while removing loose, excess skin and persistent fat deposits in the midsection, restoring a smoother and firmer abdominal contour.

Arm Lift

An arm lift can reduce excess fat and skin in the upper arms, often resulting in a firmer, more toned appearance that better complements the overall silhouette.

Dr. Tabbal takes the time to thoroughly understand each patient’s concerns and goals, developing a personalized treatment plan tailored entirely to their needs. He recognizes how life experiences such as pregnancy and significant weight loss can affect the body, and can explore the benefits of combining procedures, such as a customized mommy makeover, to help patients achieve a more comprehensive transformation.

Additional Breast Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Can insurance cover mastopexy?

Breast lift surgery is generally considered an elective cosmetic procedure and is therefore not typically covered under most health insurance policies. However, Dr. Tabbal works with trusted third-party healthcare lenders to help patients pursue their aesthetic goals through flexible payment and financing options suited to a range of budgets.

What is a mini breast lift?

A “mini” breast lift may be a suitable option for patients experiencing very mild breast ptosis who require less tissue removal than a traditional mastopexy. During your initial consultation, Dr. Tabbal can evaluate your cosmetic goals and discuss which treatment options are best aligned with your degree of ptosis and individual circumstances.

Is a breast lift painful?

Most patients find the recovery following a breast lift to be quite manageable. Post-operative discomfort and tenderness can frequently be addressed with over-the-counter medication and the application of ice packs to the incision areas. These symptoms typically ease within a few days, with most patients feeling ready to resume their normal daily activities within a few days to one week.

How can I reduce swelling after my breast lift?

There are several straightforward steps patients can take to help minimize swelling during recovery. Wearing the recommended surgical bra, getting adequate rest, staying well hydrated, reducing salt intake, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can all support the healing process. Avoiding alcohol and smoking is equally important, as both can impede recovery. Once cleared by Dr. Tabbal, light walking can also encourage healthy circulation and help reduce swelling over time.

What type of bra should I wear after surgery?

Immediately following surgery, patients are generally required to wear the compression garments recommended by Dr. Tabbal to protect the healing incisions and keep the breasts properly supported. This commonly involves wearing a surgical bra for the first two weeks, followed by a sports bra for about one month, after which patients may transition to the bra of their choice.

Wearing a supportive bra as consistently as possible after mastopexy is an important step in prolonging the results of surgery. While factors such as gravity, aging, and weight fluctuations will inevitably have some effect on the breasts over time, regular bra use can help maintain the lifted position of the breasts and slow the gradual return of ptosis.

Does a breast lift reduce the size of my breasts?

In most cases, patients can expect a modest reduction in breast size following mastopexy. Studies suggest that breasts lose approximately one bra cup size on average after a breast lift1. For patients who would prefer to maintain their current size, Dr. Tabbal can discuss approaches to performing the procedure while minimizing any reduction in volume.

What is the best age to get a breast lift?

There is typically no “best” age for a breast lift. The right time to consider breast lift surgery is generally when you feel dissatisfied with the shape and position of your breasts. For some patients this may be in their 30s, while others don’t feel the need until their 50s or beyond. 

Can I reduce the size of my areola?

Areola reduction is a common component of breast lift surgery. Pregnancy frequently causes the areolae to enlarge, and they often do not return to their previous size after childbirth. Addressing areola size as part of a mastopexy can help create a more balanced and proportionate overall appearance.

How can I treat my breast lift scars?

Dr. Tabbal can provide patients with a dedicated scar care protocol to help minimize the appearance of post-operative scarring. For patients who remain concerned about the visibility of their scars after the one-year mark, laser scar treatments may be worth exploring as an additional option.

As a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, Allen, and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, Dr. Geo Tabbal specializes in advanced cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift surgery, breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast revision procedures. Every mastopexy is carefully customized to help each patient achieve natural-looking, balanced, and long-lasting results that complement her individual anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Considering breast lift surgery in Frisco, Texas? Schedule a personalized consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Geo Tabbal to discuss your concerns, explore your treatment options, and determine whether mastopexy or breast lift with implants is right for you. Call (469) 864-7722 or request your consultation online today.

Resources

1Weichman, Katie M.D.; Doft, Melissa M.D.; Matarasso, Alan M.D.. The Impact of Mastopexy on Brassiere Cup Size. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 134(1):p 34e-40e, July 2014. | DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000000288

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