INTRODUCTION
There isn’t a woman alive who doesn’t feel and see the effects of gravity on her body — it’s just a matter of time. Youthful-appearing breasts — high, firm, rounded — are admired and desired. But often, breasts are “the first to go,” losing their shape and elasticity after pregnancy, nursing and the passing of years.

Breast lift (or mastopexy) is a surgical procedure to reshape and raise sagging breasts. In 1998, more than 31,000 women decided to enhance their appearance by having their breasts re-sculpted with this procedure. The surgeon removes excess, stretched skin which has allowed the breasts to droop and lifts the nipples to a higher, more pert position. If desired, the size of the areola can be reduced as part of the procedure as well. In some cases, breast implants are inserted at the same time to round and shape the breasts for a fuller, more natural appearance (See breast augmentation). A breast lift is similar to breast reduction mammaplasty — both procedures remodel the breast. The breast lift reshapes the breast by the removal of stretched and sagging skin; the breast reduction removes fat and breast tissue as well.

What results can you expect? Most women like the way their clothes fit after a breast lift — and have an easier time finding bras that are comfortable and flattering. Most are happier with their appearance when they look in the mirror, dressed and undressed. Many say they are better able to enjoy sports and exercise. And many say the breast lift also gives them a lift of self-confidence and better feelings about the attractiveness of their body.

There are several techniques for a breast lift that the cosmetic plastic surgeon can consider depending upon the degree of droopiness (ptosis) of the breast. In a youthful breast, the nipple lies above the inframammary fold on the mound of the breast. The surgeon will examine your breast, decide on the degree of ptosis, then determine the surgical treatment best for you.

It is important to understand that a breast lift is not forever — time does march on! — and the procedure does result in some scars which are visible when you are naked. Your cosmetic plastic surgeon will talk to you about what you can expect and ways you can lessen the chance of noticeable scarring. Ask to see before and after photographs of breast lifts from his/her patient case file for a clearer picture of what the procedure can do. The doctor wants you to be pleased with the end results.