Breast Lift Procedure

Breast Lift Procedure

A breast lift is one of two types of cosmetic breast surgeries offered at Lotus Cosmetic Surgery Centre and Medispa. Performed by Dr. Nicolas Hynes, a renowned Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon and the Medical Director here at Lotus Cosmetic Surgery, breasts lifts alter the shape and elevation of the breasts, making them more aesthetically appealing. This is a common procedure among people with sagging breasts. A breast lift involves lifting the breast by removing the excess skin.

Who is a candidate?

Women who are happy with their breast size but who wish to restore a more youthful contour may be good candidates for a breast lift. Women with smaller breasts that have “sagged” following childbirth or as a result of aging may wish to combine a breast lift with breast augmentation to improve both the size and shape of their breasts.

How is a breast lift performed?

Various techniques are available to lift the breasts. The most common method requires three incisions: a circular incision around the nipple, a vertical incision from the nipple to the fold beneath the breast, and a short horizontal incision within the fold itself. Varying amounts of skin and breast tissue are then removed and the nipple is elevated to its new position to obtain the desired contour. Smaller incisions can be used in women with minor “drooping” of the breasts.

The surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, but you will be able to go home immediately after surgery; an overnight stay is not required. The surgery takes approximately 2 ½ hours.

How should I prepare for breast lift surgery?

Two weeks before your breast lift surgery, you should start preparing by arranging for a loved one to pick you up after the procedure, having your blood work done (if requested by your doctor), and ceasing all consumption of alcohol and cigarettes. One week prior, we suggest purchasing entertainment to keep you occupied during recovery, food that is low in sodium, and a pick-up tool to help you retrieve items without having to bend over. Eight hours before your procedure, do not eat or drink anything (including water). Finally, on the day of, arrive at the medical facility two hours prior to your surgery to allow yourself the necessary time to get checked in and take any medication.

How much does breast lift surgery cost?

Breast lift procedures vary in price depending on which province you live in. The average cost of a breast lift in Ontario falls between $7,500 and $8,500. If finances are a concern, we encourage you to contact our Hamilton or Burlington location so we can discuss your options and provide you with more information.

RealSelf Patient Reviews of Nicolas M. Hynes, MD

What is the recovery period like?

Swelling, bruising and discomfort after surgery are normal for a few days. Dr. Hynes will prescribe pain medication for you, as well as antibiotics to minimize the chances of infection. You will be able to shower within a few days. The stitches are hidden below the surface of the skin and will be absorbed by the body.

Depending on your type of work, you may return within two weeks of surgery. Although the skin will be healed within a week or so, it will be three or four weeks until full activities can be resumed (i.e., sports or heavy lifting).

Will I have breast lift scars?

As the purpose of a breast lift for many people is to enhance the appearance of the breasts, the incisions made by the surgeon performing the procedure will be extremely thin. These thin scars typically fade and flatten over time, however, they won’t be completely invisible. The long-term appearance of breast lift scars can depend on your post-surgery care. After the procedure, your doctor will explain the best practices to help heal and minimize the appearance of scars. If you fail to follow their advice or even discontinue care sooner than you should, it can make the scars more visible than they would have otherwise been. That said, at the end of the day, it is part of the surgeon’s job to ensure incisions, and therefore the subsequent scars, are as small and subtle as possible.

How long will the results last?

The answer is that it depends. While some patients may prefer to have revisions made every few years, other women will reap the rewards of the procedure for several decades. On average, the results of breast lifts last between 10 and 15 years, making them a worthwhile investment for many.

What are the risks?

All surgery carries certain risks and a breast lift is no exception. These include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, and minor asymmetries. Fortunately, most of these complications are rare. There are visible scars following a breast lift, but these are hidden while wearing clothing or bathing suits and they often fade with time. Dr. Hynes will review all the risks of a breast lift with you in detail during your cosmetic consultation.

How can I obtain more information?

It’s important to have realistic expectations and to be properly informed about expected results and potential side effects, with any procedure.

If you would like to book a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Hynes at our office in Hamilton, ON, please call us at (905) 645-5640 or book an appointment.

Lotus Cosmetic Surgery Centre + Medispa
Hamilton, Ontario
Rediscover, Enhance, Reshape!