Breast Lifts:
Procedures, Costs, Risks and Recovery

A breast lift can be a wonderful procedure if it is right for you. It can help with sagging breasts; to lift them higher and make them more well rounded. Many women who get breast lifts also get breast implants to help their breasts look fuller.

First we will uncover the cost of such a procedure. Since there are many types of breast lifts, it is impossible to pinpoint an amount. It can vary as much as several thousand dollars, ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 dollars depending on your situation and desired outcome. Most surgeons offer payment plans or special financing to help make it more affordable (some do require minimum credit scores or credit requirements, so make sure to always check beforehand and make sure you are qualified).

So will you die from the pain? Most women report moderate pain, which is the worst within the first few days but improve a little each day. Most surgeons prescribe pain medication for their patients after surgery, but always make sure your surgeon understands your expectations of pain relief so you can have a plan beforehand.

On to the risks. You should always discuss your medical history with your surgeon to make sure you are a good candidate for this surgery. No surgery is without its risks, no matter how minor, so always be well aware of the risks and how common they are. Common risks associated with this surgery are:

• a reaction to the anesthesia that your surgeon uses,
• infection in the incision site or the area worked on,
• scars, and
• irregularities such as one breast appearing smaller or larger than the other, or nipples not aligned.

There are more risks not included here that should be discussed with your doctor.

How long will it take to perform a breast lift? Again, since there are many types of breast lifts the time necessary to perform a breast lift varies with each one, but normally takes between one and five hours to perform. It is normally an out patient procedure, assuming everything goes according to plan and you meet the requirements to go home. Some people are required to stay; discuss this with your doctor so you know what to expect.

Lastly, what can you expect in the way of recovery? Your surgeon should provide you with a list of things to avoid and what you are able to do. It can take up to a year for all the symptoms to go away. You will have to wear a medical bra for as long as your surgeon deems necessary. You can expect possible swelling, loss of sensation in and/or around the nipple, shooting pains, numbness, and bruising. Most of the time these subside within a month. The effects of the anesthesia may take up to 7 days to completely wear off. Please keep in mind that everyone is different and you might recover sooner or later than expected. Always follow the advice of your surgeon no matter how well you may feel, and of course always follow up any problems that are out of the ordinary or you feel should have been resolved already.

Most people have great, long lasting results after a breast lift. You should always make sure that all your questions are answered in a consultation before you do any surgery. Make sure your surgeon knows your expectations and be open to other suggestions that may work better for your situation.

You should always know what to expect from surgery:

• look at before and after photos of the surgeon’s work,
• ask for references of patients who have had this procedure done and call them,
• inquire whether the surgeon has ever had a suit brought against him from a patient,
• look at his qualifications,
• seek advice from others who have had this surgery and see who they recommend,
• ask how they will handle the situation if not happy with the results, and
• be sure to write down all of your questions beforehand so you won’t forget to ask anything once you are there.

Don’t be shy about asking questions or inquiring with nurses or staff about a surgeon. Once a surgery is performed, you cannot go back, so make sure you will be happy with the results and feel comfortable discussing any issues with the surgeon in case you would need more follow-up care.

Copyright 2005 Remedium