Breast Lift in Delafield
Lifted to where you stood years ago.
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. The procedure repositions the nipple-areolar complex to a more youthful height and can reduce enlarged areolas. Several incision techniques are available, including periareolar, vertical (lollipop), and anchor (inverted-T) patterns, each suited to different degrees of breast ptosis. Mastopexy may be performed alone or in combination with breast augmentation.
At a Glance
- ASPS data indicate approximately 153,616 breast lift procedures were performed in 2024[7]
- A large database study found an overall complication incidence of approximately 1.15% for mastopexy alone[5]
- Breast ptosis is classified using the Regnault system based on the position of the nipple-areolar complex relative to the inframammary fold[5]
- Incision lines are permanent but in most cases fade and improve significantly over time[2]
Before & after
Real faces, real results.
Before & after
Breast Lift
Before & after
Breast Lift
Individual results vary. Photos shown with patient consent.
Overview
A breast lift addresses breast ptosis, a condition in which the breasts lose their youthful shape and firmness due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, gravity, or hereditary factors. The procedure elevates the nipple-areolar complex to a higher position and reshapes the breast mound to restore a more youthful contour.
Several incision techniques are used depending on the degree of ptosis and the patient's anatomy. The periareolar technique involves an incision around the areola only and is suited for mild ptosis. The vertical or lollipop technique adds a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease. The anchor or inverted-T pattern adds a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold and is used for more significant ptosis. The choice of technique influences scarring patterns and the degree of correction achievable.
Mastopexy does not significantly change the size of the breasts. Patients seeking fuller breasts may consider combining the procedure with breast augmentation (augmentation mastopexy), while those seeking smaller breasts may benefit from a combined breast reduction approach. The procedure can also reduce enlarged areolas and address asymmetry between breasts.
What to expect
- Consultation to discuss aesthetic goals, review medical history, assess breast anatomy, and determine the most appropriate incision technique
- Preoperative breast imaging and photographs for surgical planning
- Preoperative markings are made on the breast while the patient is in an upright position
- Administration of general anesthesia or intravenous sedation
- The surgical site is cleansed with antiseptic solution
- Incisions are made according to the selected pattern (periareolar, vertical, or anchor)
- Underlying breast tissue is lifted, reshaped, and internally sutured to improve contour and firmness
- The nipple-areolar complex is repositioned to a more youthful height; enlarged areolas are reduced if needed
- Excess skin is removed and the remaining skin is redraped around the reshaped breast mound
- Incisions are closed with layered sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape
- Dressings or bandages are applied, and a support bra or elastic bandage is placed
- A temporary drainage tube may be placed under the skin to remove excess fluid
How a breast lift works
- The surgeon selects an incision pattern based on the degree of ptosis, breast size, areola size, and the amount of excess skin present. Periareolar, vertical (lollipop), or anchor (inverted-T) patterns may be used.
- Through the incisions, the underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness. Internal sutures help create and support the new breast shape.
- The nipple-areolar complex is repositioned to a natural, more youthful height. If the areola has become enlarged, it can be reduced by excising skin at the perimeter.
- Excess breast skin is removed to compensate for the loss of elasticity. The remaining skin is then redraped and tightened around the newly shaped breast mound.
- Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts. Skin adhesives, sutures, or surgical tape may be used to close the incisions.
When it's recommended
- Breast ptosis (sagging) with the nipple-areolar complex at or below the inframammary fold
- Loss of breast shape and firmness following pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Breast sagging resulting from significant weight loss
- Enlarged or stretched areolas requiring reduction
- Breast asymmetry in position, shape, or nipple placement
- Age-related changes in breast contour and skin elasticity
- Ptosis following removal of breast implants requiring skin tightening
Is a breast lift right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Recovery & aftercare
- Dressings or bandages are applied to the incisions; an elastic bandage or support bra is worn to minimize swelling and support the breasts during healing
- A temporary drainage tube may remain in place for several days to remove excess fluid
- Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks
- Vigorous physical activity, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise are typically avoided for 4 to 6 weeks
- Swelling and bruising gradually subside over the first several weeks
- Sutures or skin adhesives are removed or dissolve according to the surgeon's protocol
- Incision lines continue to fade and improve over the following months to a year
- Final breast shape and position stabilize over several months as tissues settle
Alternatives
- Breast augmentation with implants for volume restoration without significant lift
- Breast reduction for patients who also desire decreased breast size
- Non-surgical breast lift approaches using radiofrequency or ultrasound energy (limited evidence)
- Support garments for non-surgical management of mild ptosis
Related treatments
How much does a breast lift cost?
A breast lift at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $12,500. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. It repositions the nipple-areolar complex to a more youthful height and can reduce enlarged areolas. The procedure does not significantly change breast size.
- A breast lift is performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, so patients typically do not feel pain during the procedure. Mild to moderate discomfort, tightness, and swelling are common during the initial recovery period and can generally be managed with prescribed medications.
- A breast lift is generally considered safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. A large database study found an overall complication incidence of approximately 1.15% for mastopexy alone. As with any surgery, potential risks exist and are discussed in detail in the risks section above.
- Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Swelling gradually subsides over the first several weeks, and final breast shape and position stabilize over several months.
- During the procedure, incisions are made according to the selected pattern. The underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped, the nipple-areolar complex is repositioned, and excess skin is removed. The surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Patients may have temporary drainage tubes and will wear a support bra during recovery.
- Individuals with active breast cancer, uncontrolled medical conditions, active infections, or bleeding disorders may not be suitable candidates. Those who are pregnant, planning pregnancy in the near term, or who smoke may be advised to postpone the procedure. A thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon can determine candidacy.
Breast Lift risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Active breast cancer or unresolved breast abnormalities
- Active infection at or near the surgical site
- Pregnancy or plans for pregnancy in the near term, as pregnancy may alter results
- Medical conditions that increase surgical or anesthesia risk
- Unmanaged bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulant medications that cannot be paused
- Unrealistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes
- Active smoking, which increases risk of wound healing complications
- Body dysmorphic disorder or external pressure as the primary motivation for surgery
Possible risks
- Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Visible scarring, which fades over time but remains permanent
- Breast asymmetry in shape, size, or nipple position
- Hematoma (collection of blood under the skin) that may require drainage
- Infection at the incision sites
- Poor wound healing, particularly at incision junctions
- Fat necrosis (death of fatty tissue deep in the skin)
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Deep vein thrombosis and thromboembolic complications
- Potential partial or total loss of the nipple and areola (rare)
- Breast contour and shape irregularities
- Recurrent ptosis over time due to aging and gravity
- Need for revision surgery to correct asymmetry or other concerns
- Anesthesia-related risks
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 7 sources, including peer-reviewed research.
Government & research
Educational & general
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13