How Long do Breast Lifts Last?

Posted on Feb 13,2023 By Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

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One of the main holdups of people who want to enhance the projection, youthfulness, or fullness of their breasts through cosmetic surgery is how long the procedure will last. In that regard, artificial implants can have a confounding effect on the longevity of the breast enhancement process, as some can last decades whereas others might not.

A breast lift does not utilize volume-enhancing procedures on its own, but might be helpful for people looking for both a physical lifting of sagging breast tissue as well as volume enhancement. How long will it last? Let’s talk about it.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a procedure to reshape the breasts to a more youthful (higher) position on the chest wall. It can also be done in combination with a breast augmentation or reduction. Breast lifts can be performed on people of all ages, most often for those who have been pregnant and had children.

The most common reason for having a breast lift is to improve the shape and size of your breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. It eliminates loose skin and stretch marks on the breasts that result from weight gain or loss and the effects of pregnancy. A breast lift may also be recommended if you have a large areola (the darker area around your nipple) or if you want perkier, fuller breasts.

How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?

Breast lifts can last a lifetime, but that depends on the type of lift you have. The most common breast lifts are vertical or anchor lifts. These types of lifts usually last for 10 to 20 years after the surgery.

Additional procedures can alter, if not enhance the longevity of your surgery. For example, breast implants can last 15 to 20 years, while fat injections into the breast may last anywhere between three and 10 years before they begin to show the signs of aging. Breast augmentation surgery can also be combined with a breast lift if desired.

Does a Breast Lift with Augmentation Change the Time It Lasts?

For most patients, the option of adding implants to a breast lift will not affect how long the enhancement will be noticeable. Breast augmentation does not last any longer than a simple breast lift.

When you undergo a breast lift, skin and fat tissue is removed from your chest and then repositioned in their new position. This is usually done under general anesthesia or could potentially be performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Dr. Nakamura will remove excess skin and fat from underneath the nipple and reshape the breast tissue to give it more volume. The nipple itself will remain in its original location but will sit higher on the chest wall than before.

When you have an augmentation at the same time, implants are placed in your breasts between the chest muscle and overlying skin. This creates a more natural look than when implants are placed under the muscle alone because there is less visible scarring when they are placed above the muscle.

Learn More From the Experts on Breast Enhancement

If you’re thinking about getting a breast lift but aren’t sure if you’ll be happy with the results in the long run, don’t hesitate to reach out to our board-certified physician, Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura at Accent On You today. A consultation with his expert opinion and examination can help you decide whether this procedure is right for you at this point in your life.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at Accent on You | + posts

Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura is a recognized expert in plastic surgery and body contouring, providing excellent care while taking a personal approach with each and every patient.

Posted in Breast Lift