Is a Mastopexy Procedure Painful?

Your plastic surgery will be conducted as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain pain-free throughout the operation. While you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising during recovery, most patients find the initial healing phase to be less painful than anticipated. Dr. Bhat will give you temporary pain relief medication to help manage any discomfort. You can also apply ice packs to ease swelling. It’s normal to feel some tightness in your chest, but this sensation will gradually subside over the next few days.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Approximately one week after your surgery, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and remove any sutures or bandages. Following this initial visit, you can expect to return for additional check-ups to allow Dr. Bhat to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re satisfied with your results. You’ll be informed about the timing and need for further follow-up appointments.

How Long Until I See Results?

While most swelling will subside within the first few weeks after surgery, some residual swelling may linger a bit longer. Typically, it takes about 6 to 12 weeks for your breasts to fully settle into their final shape, with the final results becoming clear anywhere from six months to a year. Patience is key as your body heals and reveals the beautiful transformation!

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Scarring is inevitable in any surgical procedure, but Dr. Bhat employs precise techniques to minimize their visibility. Initially, scars will appear red or pink but will gradually fade over time. The extent and location of scarring depend on the incision technique used: Anchor Lift: Scars around the areola, down the breast, and along the crease. Lollipop Lift: Scars around the areola and vertically down the breast. Donut Lift: A single scar around the areola. Dr. Bhat may recommend scar treatments such as silicone sheets, laser therapy, or medical-grade creams to improve healing. Proper sun protection and skincare can also help scars fade more quickly.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Breast Lift?

You should avoid strenuous workouts for at least six weeks to allow for proper healing. Here’s a general timeline for resuming physical activities: Week 1-2: Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation. Week 3-4: Light activities may be resumed, but no upper-body exercises or heavy lifting. Week 6 and Beyond: You can gradually reintroduce more intense workouts, but always listen to your body and get clearance from Dr. Bhat before resuming weight training or high-impact exercises.

Can I Combine a Breast Augmentation with My Breast Lift Procedure?

Dr. Bhat frequently combines breast lift surgeries with breast augmentation to achieve exceptional results for patients with smaller breasts. Many of our patients also opt to pair their breast lift with other body contouring treatments, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction , for a more comprehensive transformation. During your initial consultation, be sure to share your goals. Dr. Bhat will then provide personalized recommendations and help you explore all available options.

What Are the Risks Associated with Breast Lift Surgery?

Every surgery carries some risk, but our team is here to walk you through the details and ensure you understand every step. Dr. Bhat will leverage her expertise to reduce any potential risks and ensure the best outcome for you. A Breast Lift is generally a safe procedure with minimal risks, but your health and safety are always our top priority. To keep you informed, here are a few common postoperative effects you may experience: Bruising Mild discomfort Scarring Swelling Temporary numbness or tingling These are all typical and should be resolved within the first six weeks or so. However, don't hesitate to contact our office if you notice any prolonged or worrisome symptoms. We're here to support you through your recovery!

Is the Patient's Breast Tissue Used During the Surgical Procedure?

During a mastopexy, the patient's breast skin and surrounding tissue are lifted during the surgery. Any remaining extra skin or excess breast tissue will be removed during surgery. Dr. Bhat will create a detailed surgical plan that will result in your breasts resting in a higher position.

Do Breast Lifts Tighten the Skin?

Yes, the breast lift procedure tightens the skin. During your initial consultation, Dr. Bhat will discuss a detailed treatment plan.

How Long Until I Can Work Out Following the Procedure?

After the second week after surgery, you can resume light walking. After about six weeks, you can gradually resume your normal workout routine.

How Do I Find the Best Breast Lift Plastic Surgeon in Tampa?

Finding the right plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving safe and beautiful breast lift results. Experience and specialization also play a significant role; choosing a surgeon with extensive expertise in breast lift procedures can lead to better outcomes. Dr. Deepa Bhat specializes in aesthetic breast surgery, offering patients skillful techniques and personalized care. Reviewing before-and-after photos of a surgeon’s work can help gauge their aesthetic style and level of expertise, while patient reviews and testimonials provide insight into the quality of care and results you can expect. Additionally, scheduling a one-on-one consultation allows you to discuss your goals, ask questions, and determine if you feel comfortable with your surgeon’s approach. Dr. Bhat’s expertise in breast enhancement surgery, combined with her patient-focused approach, makes her a trusted choice for women seeking natural, youthful breast lift results.

Breast Lift In Tampa | Ravive Plastic Surgery

Close up of woman in black top - Breast Lift

Introduction

Introduction to Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lift mastopexy, commonly known as breast lift surgery, is a popular procedure to correct sagging breasts. While breast volume may not be changed, many women don’t enjoy seeing their once-firm appearance begin to droop and sag. Even though some women will see more aggressive changes than others, after experiencing mild sagging, patients may wish to correct this appearance with breast lift mastopexy.

At our esteemed practice in Tampa, a breast lift is one of our more popular aesthetic procedures. Our breast lift technique is an excellent solution for patients seeking natural-looking and more youthful breasts. Dr. Deepa Bhat at Ravive Plastic Surgery strives to deliver results that you can be proud of. To learn more about this surgery, please keep reading below.

What is a Breast Lift?

Breast Lift surgery is medically known as Mastopexy. As time passes, many women experience sagging, changes, and a loss of firmness in their breasts, a condition referred to as breast ptosis. This can result from factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, the natural aging process, or hereditary traits. A breast lift procedure lifts and tightens the breasts and nipples, restoring a youthful shape and a more defined breast contour.

There are several techniques available for breast lifts, each designed to address different levels of sagging and meet the specific needs of each patient.

Dr. Bhat’s Breast Lift Expertise in Tampa

Dr. Deepa Bhat has performed hundreds of successful surgeries, earning a reputation for her precision and artistry in aesthetic procedures. Her extensive experience with a variety of breast lift techniques ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
Dr. Bhat’s extensive experience with reconstructive surgery of the breast makes her uniquely positioned to address even difficult anatomic concerns.
Dr. Bhat takes a compassionate, patient-centered approach to breast lift surgery, focusing on both aesthetic goals and overall well-being. She works closely with each patient, considering their unique anatomy, goals, and lifestyle to achieve the best possible outcome.

Breast Lift At-A-Glance

Surgery Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the technique used by Dr. Bhat.
Price: ~$7,000–$12,000 (For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation).
Recovery: Most patients return to light activities within a week and fully recover in 4-6 weeks. They should see full results between 6 and 12 weeks post-op.
Results: Almost immediate improvement in breast shape and position, with final results visible as swelling subsides over a few months.

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Woman in sunglasses and white bikini - Breast Lift

What are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?

Our Tampa patients have discovered the following benefits from their Breast Lifts:

Enhanced mobility for a more active lifestyle
Correction of sagging breasts
Boosted self-confidence
Long-lasting outcomes
Improved breast shape
Natural nipple projection
Restored youthful breast appearance
Decreased discomfort
Less irritation beneath the breasts

Unlike breast reduction, which focuses on reducing breast size, a breast lift primarily aims to enhance the breast’s appearance by lifting and reshaping.

Who are the Best Candidates for a Breast Lift?

The best candidates for a Tampa breast lift surgery are those with the following characteristics:

Are in overall good health (physical, mental, and emotional)
Have healthy skin and maintain a stable weight
Have experienced a loss of breast volume and shape due to aging, weight loss, pregnancy, or fluctuations in weight
Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery
Experience moderate sagging in the breast area
Have nipples that point downward or are positioned lower than before
Desire to reposition the breasts and nipples to a higher position

What’s the First Step?

To begin your breast lift journey in Tampa, the first step is to schedule a consultation by calling us or completing the contact form on our website. Our Patient Coordinator will help you choose a convenient time to meet with Dr. Bhat.

During your consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about the breast lift procedure, meet Dr. Bhat, and undergo a thorough breast evaluation. You’ll also be asked about your medical history, so it’s important to be open and honest to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan.

If Dr. Bhat determines that a breast lift is the right solution for your goals, we’ll proceed with scheduling your surgery and provide you with detailed pre- and post-operative instructions. Our team will also inquire about your current medications and any previous surgeries. Your honesty in discussing these details, as well as your aesthetic expectations, is essential. We believe that clear communication is key to achieving the best results.

Degrees of Breast Ptosis

Breast ptosis is a common condition that affects many women, causing the breasts to sag and lose their natural shape. Understanding the degree of breast ptosis is essential in determining the best course of treatment, including the type of breast lift procedure that would be most effective. There are three degrees of breast ptosis, each with distinct characteristics:
Grade I Ptosis: This is the mildest form of breast ptosis, where the breasts droop slightly below the inframammary fold, but the nipples are still level with the fold. Women with Grade I ptosis may notice a slight loss of firmness and perkiness in their breasts.
Grade II Ptosis: In this stage, the breasts and nipples sag below the inframammary fold. This degree of ptosis is more noticeable and may affect the overall shape and contour of the breast.
Grade III Ptosis: This is the most severe form of breast ptosis, where the breasts and nipples are significantly sagging, with the nipples pointing downward and the breasts hanging below the inframammary fold. Women with Grade III ptosis often experience a substantial change in breast appearance and may seek a more comprehensive breast lift procedure.

Dr. Bhat can identify the degree of breast ptosis and recommend the most suitable breast lift technique to restore a youthful and aesthetically pleasing breast shape.

How Do I Prepare for My Breast Lift?

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth surgery and recovery. Here are some steps you should take before your procedure:

Medical Evaluation: Dr. Bhat will review your medical history and may require lab testing to confirm your suitability for surgery.
Medications & Supplements: You may need to stop taking certain medications, including blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal supplements, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Quit Smoking & Alcohol: Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, you’ll need to quit at least a few weeks before surgery. Alcohol consumption should also be limited.
Arrange for Support: Since breast lift surgery requires anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home and assist you for at least the first 24–48 hours post-surgery.
Prepare Your Recovery Space: To facilitate your recovery, have essentials like comfortable clothing, pillows, ice packs, and necessary medications ready at home.

How is a Breast Lift performed?

This cosmetic procedure removes excess skin and fat from the breast area, repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful and natural position. The breast fold is carefully adjusted to enhance the overall contour and lift. The skin above the nipple is reshaped to improve the underlying tissue’s firmness, shape, and contour, and any excess skin is removed. In some cases, the areola may also be resized to fit a better proportion.

Three primary incision options are chosen based on the degree of lift and incision required. Your surgeon will help determine the most effective incision during your consultation. Common incision techniques include:

Anchor lift: This technique involves an incision around the areola, vertically down the lower breast tissue, and horizontally across the lower breast crease. It’s typically used for more significant lifting needs.
Donut breast lift: Also known as a peri-areolar lift, this procedure involves a circular incision around the areola, often used to reduce its size. While ideal for mild sagging, Dr. Bhat’s extensive training allows her to perform this lift on women with more pronounced sagging as well.
Lollipop lift: This method involves making a vertical incision along the chest wall. It effectively addresses moderate sagging and provides a subtle lift with a shorter incision that the anchor lift. .

Dr. Bhat will carefully select the incision technique that offers the best results for you. While this procedure reshapes the breast, some scarring is inevitable. During your consultation, your surgeon will go over the options and techniques that suit your body and goals.

If you’ve experienced significant volume loss in your breasts, you may want to consider combining breast implants with your breast lift for enhanced results.

Types of Breast Lifts

There are various breast lift techniques, each offering distinct advantages based on your needs. The best option for you will depend on factors such as the degree of sagging (ptosis), the shape and size of your breasts, and your individual preferences. Here are the most common types of breast lifts:

Peri-Areolar Breast Lift: A less invasive approach, this technique involves an incision around the areola to remove excess skin and tighten the breast tissue. It’s ideal for women with mild sagging and can also reduce the size of the areola.
Vertical Breast Lift: Often called the lollipop lift, this method includes an incision around the nipple that extends downward to the breast crease. It provides more lift and reshaping, making it effective for moderate sagging.
Anchor Breast Lift: This is the most comprehensive technique. It involves a circular incision around the areola, a vertical incision to the crease, and a horizontal incision along the crease. This lift is best suited for those with significant sagging and provides the most dramatic reshaping and elevation.
Breast Lift with Implants: For women experiencing both sagging and volume loss, combining a lift with implants can restore fullness and elevate the breasts. This procedure adds volume through implants while lifting the breasts to a higher position.

Each breast lift technique is tailored to address specific concerns and achieve the desired breast shape. During your consultation, Dr. Bhat will guide you in selecting the procedure that best suits your goals.

Breast Lift Recovery

After your surgery, you can head home soon. You’ll be given a supportive bra designed to reduce swelling during the early stages of recovery. Like with breast augmentation, we suggest taking it easy for the first few days and arranging time off work to support the healing process. It’s important to avoid heavy physical activities, including exercise, for up to six weeks after surgery.
Most breast lift patients have been pleased with the improved shape and contour of their breasts for many years. However, keep in mind that natural changes, such as the natural aging process, pregnancy, or weight changes, may affect the appearance of your breasts over time.

Tips for Recovery

Your recovery process plays a crucial role in achieving the best results from your breast lift. Below are some tips to ensure a smooth healing journey:

Follow Postoperative Instructions: Dr. Bhat will provide detailed guidelines on wound care, medications, and activity restrictions. Follow them carefully.
Wear a Supportive Bra: As instructed, wear a special compression bra to help reduce swelling and support your breasts as they heal.
Sleep on Your Back: Avoid putting pressure on your breasts by sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated.
Limit Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activities, including lifting heavy objects, for at least six weeks. Light walking can be resumed after a few days to promote circulation.
Manage Discomfort: Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected. Dr. Bhat may prescribe pain medication, and applying cold compresses can help with swelling.
Stay Hydrated and eat Nutritious Foods: Proper nutrition aids healing. Focus on lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
Monitor for Complications: Contact Ravive Plastic Surgery immediately if you experience excessive swelling, severe pain, signs of infection, or unusual discharge.

Woman in bathing suit standing in front of waves - Breast Lift

Breastfeeding After a Breast Lift

Breastfeeding after a breast lift is possible, but discussing your plans with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure is essential. While a breast lift should not affect your ability to breastfeed, it’s crucial to ensure that the surgery does not damage the milk ducts or glands.

Preserving Milk Ducts and Glands: A skilled surgeon will preserve the milk ducts and glands during the procedure, optimizing your chances of breastfeeding after the surgery. This involves careful planning and precise surgical techniques to avoid disrupting the breast tissue responsible for milk production.
Breastfeeding After Surgery: If you plan to breastfeed after a breast lift, you must wait until your body has fully healed and your breasts have settled into their new shape. This typically means waiting several months after the surgery before attempting to breastfeed.
Consulting with Your Surgeon: Before undergoing a breast lift, discuss your plans to breastfeed with Dr. Bhat. She can advise you on the best course of action and ensure that the procedure preserves your ability to breastfeed. Open communication is also key to achieving the best possible outcome.

It’s essential to note that while a breast lift should not affect your ability to breastfeed, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions and advice to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. By working closely with Dr. Bhat, you can achieve your aesthetic goals while maintaining the ability to breastfeed in the future.

How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost in Tampa?

The cost of a breast lift in the Tampa Bay area will vary depending on a number of factors. No two breast lift surgeries are the same, so you’ll need to schedule a consultation with the surgeons. During your appointment, you’ll be able to express your aesthetic goals and ask questions. It’s important to note that most insurance plans do not cover breast lift surgery as it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Dr. Bhat will provide her expert breast lift options and surgery recommendations and go over pricing in detail.

Why Choose Dr. Bhat?

Dr. Deepa Bhat is a plastic surgeon who received her medical degree from Rush University in Chicago, IL. She is multilingual in four languages (English, Spanish, Tamil, and Kannada), allowing her to communicate with a more diverse group of patients in their native tongue. Dr. Bhat is also fellowship-trained in aesthetic procedures, which means she did an additional year of training in exclusively cosmetic procedures after her seven years of training and completion of a plastic surgery residency. With Dr. Bhat’s exceptional skills, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals, delivering remarkable results that exceed expectations.

Dr. Bhat’s meticulous approach at Ravive Plastic Surgery ensures that each Breast Lift procedure is tailored to her patients’ needs and desires. Her warm and compassionate nature creates a supportive and comfortable environment where patients feel heard and understood every step of the way.

Schedule Your Consultation

Our Tampa breast lift Surgery patients find that the procedure greatly benefits their lives and breast appearance and provides more self-confidence. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bhat, please contact us today and get ready for a new breast contour.

Schedule A Consultation

Breast Lift FAQs

Your procedure questions answered.

Your plastic surgery will be conducted as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, ensuring you remain pain-free throughout the operation. While you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising during recovery, most patients find the initial healing phase to be less painful than anticipated.

Dr. Bhat will give you temporary pain relief medication to help manage any discomfort. You can also apply ice packs to ease swelling. It’s normal to feel some tightness in your chest, but this sensation will gradually subside over the next few days.
Approximately one week after your surgery, you’ll have a follow-up appointment to evaluate your healing progress and remove any sutures or bandages. Following this initial visit, you can expect to return for additional check-ups to allow Dr. Bhat to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re satisfied with your results.

You’ll be informed about the timing and need for further follow-up appointments.
While most swelling will subside within the first few weeks after surgery, some residual swelling may linger a bit longer. Typically, it takes about 6 to 12 weeks for your breasts to fully settle into their final shape, with the final results becoming clear anywhere from six months to a year. Patience is key as your body heals and reveals the beautiful transformation!
Scarring is inevitable in any surgical procedure, but Dr. Bhat employs precise techniques to minimize their visibility. Initially, scars will appear red or pink but will gradually fade over time. The extent and location of scarring depend on the incision technique used:
- Anchor Lift: Scars around the areola, down the breast, and along the crease.
- Lollipop Lift: Scars around the areola and vertically down the breast.
- Donut Lift: A single scar around the areola.
Dr. Bhat may recommend scar treatments such as silicone sheets, laser therapy, or medical-grade creams to improve healing. Proper sun protection and skincare can also help scars fade more quickly.
You should avoid strenuous workouts for at least six weeks to allow for proper healing. Here’s a general timeline for resuming physical activities:
- Week 1-2: Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
- Week 3-4: Light activities may be resumed, but no upper-body exercises or heavy lifting.
- Week 6 and Beyond: You can gradually reintroduce more intense workouts, but always listen to your body and get clearance from Dr. Bhat before resuming weight training or high-impact exercises.
Dr. Bhat frequently combines breast lift surgeries with breast augmentation to achieve exceptional results for patients with smaller breasts. Many of our patients also opt to pair their breast lift with other body contouring treatments, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction, for a more comprehensive transformation.

During your initial consultation, be sure to share your goals. Dr. Bhat will then provide personalized recommendations and help you explore all available options.
Every surgery carries some risk, but our team is here to walk you through the details and ensure you understand every step. Dr. Bhat will leverage her expertise to reduce any potential risks and ensure the best outcome for you.

A Breast Lift is generally a safe procedure with minimal risks, but your health and safety are always our top priority. To keep you informed, here are a few common postoperative effects you may experience:
- Bruising
- Mild discomfort
- Scarring
- Swelling
- Temporary numbness or tingling
These are all typical and should be resolved within the first six weeks or so. However, don't hesitate to contact our office if you notice any prolonged or worrisome symptoms. We're here to support you through your recovery!
During a mastopexy, the patient's breast skin and surrounding tissue are lifted during the surgery. Any remaining extra skin or excess breast tissue will be removed during surgery. Dr. Bhat will create a detailed surgical plan that will result in your breasts resting in a higher position.
Finding the right plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving safe and beautiful breast lift results. Experience and specialization also play a significant role; choosing a surgeon with extensive expertise in breast lift procedures can lead to better outcomes.

Dr. Deepa Bhat specializes in aesthetic breast surgery, offering patients skillful techniques and personalized care. Reviewing before-and-after photos of a surgeon’s work can help gauge their aesthetic style and level of expertise, while patient reviews and testimonials provide insight into the quality of care and results you can expect.

Additionally, scheduling a one-on-one consultation allows you to discuss your goals, ask questions, and determine if you feel comfortable with your surgeon’s approach. Dr. Bhat’s expertise in breast enhancement surgery, combined with her patient-focused approach, makes her a trusted choice for women seeking natural, youthful breast lift results.

I had my very first Botox and lip filler done by Dr. Deepa Bhat. She is very caring and is the sweetest. She made the process seamless and painless! I had no anxiety over what I’m going to look like after because I knew I was in great hands of an aesthetic plastic surgeon. I LOVE the natural results! I look more youthful and refreshed. I highly recommend her!

- Angela

Dr. Bhat is an amazing surgeon (and person)! I had an extended tummy tuck and lipo 360 and I have never been happier with the way I look. I healed without issue, my scar looks fantastic and most importantly, Dr. Bhat was there for me every step of the way. I would recommend Dr. Bhat to anybody looking to gain self confidence through surgery.

- Rachel

I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Bhat for lip filler and botox and it was a wonderful experience. She walked in the room with a warm smile and instantly put me at ease. She was very attentive and I felt that she really listened to my goals and desired outcome. She was gentle and meticulous and my lips turned out absolutely beautiful! My botox was placed perfectly as well. She made the experience easy and enjoyable. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone and will be going to see her for my future cosmetic needs!

- Amanda

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