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Breast Lift

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Lift + Shape

Why Choose MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa for Breast Lift Surgery?

Women from Maryville, Edwardsville, and around St. Louis, MO, might find that their bodies change over time. Whether from breastfeeding, weight changes, or even gravity, breast tissue can eventually settle and develop a deflated appearance. Dr. Ryan Diederich performs mastopexy, the medical term for a breast lift, to give his patients in Glen Carbon a more youthful breast shape and appearance by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the areola.

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Breast Lift at a Glance

  • Procedure: Surgical repositioning of breast tissue to restore a more youthful shape and position
  • Benefits: Improved breast contour, elevated nipple position, enhanced self-confidence
  • Duration: Typically 2-3 hours, performed as an outpatient procedure
  • Downtime: 1-2 weeks off work, limited physical activity for 4-6 weeks
  • Results: Immediate visible improvement with final results settling over 3-6 months
  • Longevity: Results can last for many years, but natural aging and gravity may affect outcomes over time

A Contour Comeback

What is a breast lift?

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing contour. At MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ryan Diederich performs this transformative procedure to help women regain confidence in their appearance. Dr.Diederich offers this surgery with versatile and modern options, such as GalaFLEX, a biomesh scaffold that can be used during surgery to reinforce weak tissues and improve overall results. During your consultation with Dr. Diederich, he will go over these options with you so that you can create your best surgical plan together.

Limitations of a Breast Lift

A breast lift is able to create a more youthful appearance of the breast; however, it will not change the size of the breast. In fact, the breast can sometimes appear slightly smaller after the procedure. A breast lift is also unable to guarantee upper breast fullness. To provide upper breast fullness that lasts, a breast implant would be necessary.

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Bounce Back

What is the breast lift procedure like?

Before the Breast Lift Procedure

  • Get lab testing or a medical evaluation as needed.
  • Take certain medications or adjust your current medications, as recommended.
  • Some patients may need to get a baseline mammogram before surgery and another one after surgery to help detect any future changes in your breast tissue.
  • Review your pre- and post-surgery checklist.
  • Pick up your prescriptions so they are ready on surgery day.
  • Pre-Op instructions will be provided before the procedure. Please read these thoroughly for additional information.

The Day of the Breast Lift Procedure

Breast lift surgery is usually on an outpatient basis. You will come to the hospital in the morning and be able to leave after your procedure is completed. You are not allowed to eat or drink anything after midnight the day of your surgery. Please arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital on surgery day. You will also need someone to stay with you at home for the first 24 hours after surgery.

Defying Droop

Am I a candidate for a breast lift?

Ideal candidates are in good overall health, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations. You may be a good candidate if you have sagging breasts, downward-pointing nipples, or stretched skin due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging. However, those planning future pregnancies, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss should consider postponing surgery. Smokers must quit before surgery.

During your consultation, Dr. Diederich will assess your individual needs and health to determine if a breast lift is your best option for achieving a more youthful, uplifted breast contour.

Transform Your Silhouette

What are the benefits of breast lift surgery?

Renewed Youthful Appearance

  • Restored Breast Shape: Achieve a more perky and lifted contour
  • Improved Symmetry: Enhance balance between breasts for a harmonious look
  • Nipple Repositioning: Elevate downward-pointing nipples to a natural position
  • Proportionate Areolas: Resize enlarged areolas to complement your breast shape

Enhanced Comfort in Daily Life

  • Better Clothing Fit: Enjoy improved fit in bras, swimwear, and other garments
  • Reduced Skin Irritation: Alleviate chafing and rashes under the breasts
  • Increased Physical Comfort: Potentially reduce back and neck strain

Boost in Self-Confidence

  • Improved Body Image: Feel more comfortable and confident in your appearance
  • Expanded Wardrobe Options: Explore new clothing styles with confidence
  • Enhanced Intimacy: Experience increased self-assurance in personal relationships

Long-Lasting, Natural-Looking Results

  • Sustainable Improvement: Enjoy results that can last for many years
  • Customized Approach: Dr. Diederich tailors each surgery to your unique goals
  • Minimal Scarring: Benefit from advanced techniques that minimize visible scars

At MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa in Glen Carbon, IL, we're committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals safely and effectively. Dr. Diederich's expertise ensures personalized care and optimal results. Experience the transformative benefits of a breast lift and rediscover your confidence with a rejuvenated silhouette.

From Slouch to Standout

After the Breast Lift Procedure

After the surgery is completed, dressings will be applied to the incisions and a surgical bra placed. You will come to the office the day after your surgery for follow up and we will remove the bandages for you. You may be sore for a few weeks and may also experience slight swelling and bruising. Recovery is patient dependent. Post-Op Instructions will be provided before the procedure. Please keep these close throughout recovery.

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heartbeats.

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A Lift That Lasts

Breast Lift Results

You'll notice an immediate improvement in breast position and shape right after surgery, with initial swelling subsiding over the first 2-4 weeks to reveal more of your new contour.

Your breasts will continue to settle into their final position over 3-6 months, while incision lines fade and flatten over 6-12 months, becoming less noticeable. Breast lift results can last for many years, with your breasts remaining more lifted than if you hadn't had surgery. While natural aging and gravity will continue to affect your breasts, they will always be more elevated than before. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help prolong your results, though some patients opt for minor revisions after several years to maintain optimal outcomes

Now What?

Schedule Your Consultation to Learn More.

Dr. Ryan Diederich is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in a range of aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures at MidAmerica Plastic Surgery in Glen Carbon, IL. If you’re looking for a plastic surgeon east of St. Louis, you can schedule a consultation online, or call us at (618) 288-7855 to schedule an appointment. A $200 consultation fee will be collected to reserve your appointment. For more information see the American Society of Plastic Surgery topic “Breast Lift”

*This article is intended as a guideline only. This is not intended as medical advice. There are no guarantees written or implied from the information presented here. Only a consultation can provide an appropriate evaluation and discussion regarding any procedure. Refer to your physician for medical decision making and advice.

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Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ryan Diederich

Dr. Diederich is a Southern Illinois native realizing his dream of giving back to the community. He helps patients feel and look their best with his surgical skills and compassionate care.

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Breast Lift

Frequently Asked Questions

Many changes in a woman’s life can lead to the want for a breast lift. These include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Weight fluctuations
  • Aging
  • Gravity
  • Genetics

Breast lift can adjust the changes that have occurred and provide a more youthful shape to the breast.

Our guidelines are that a mammogram is necessary before surgery if you meet any of the following criteria:

  • Age greater than 35 years
  • You are within 10 years of the age of a family member that was diagnosed with breast cancer
  • If any areas of concern are identified during your examination

Breast augmentation and breast lift (augmentation mastopexy) are two opposite and competing procedures. The two procedures can typically be completed at the same time, although there are limitations in both the degree of augmentation and degree of lift that can be completed at one time. A complete consultation with Dr. Ryan Diederich is necessary to determine if you are a candidate for a single-stage procedure.

As with any procedure, there are risks. Fortunately, with a breast lift procedure, these risks are minimal. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Bleeding (hematoma)
  • Infection
  • Asymmetry
  • Poor healing of incisions
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation, may be temporary or permanent
  • Anesthesia risks
  • Fluid accumulation
  • Blood clots
  • Pain, which may persist
  • Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
  • Possibility of revision surgery
  • Pregnancy, weight loss, and menopause may influence the appearance of augmented breasts over the course of your lifetime.