What is a Breast Lift?

Dr. Bohley helps women in Portland, Oregon who suffer from sagging breasts due to reasons including aging, considerable weight loss, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. A breast lift brings the breast tissue together by lifting your breasts to a youthful position, achieving an even proportion between your breasts, removing any excess skin, and repositioning your areola and nipples higher on the breasts.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?

Our office gets patients from the broader Portland area, including Vancouver, Washington, who are considering a breast lift. Depending on your cosmetic goals and decrease in volume, Dr.  Bohley may suggest a combination procedure with a breast lift or augmentation.

As long as you are in general good health, have realistic expectations, and have a positive attitude, you are likely a good candidate for a breast lift.

Breast Lift & Tummy Tuck Patient
Breast Augmentation/Wise Lift with an Abdominoplasty The patient is 5 months postoperative. Implants: Natrell Gel SRX 340CC
Breast Lift Patient
Allergan Saline filled to 435cc.
Breast Lift Patient
Breast Lift Case# 1
Breast Lift Case# 2

How Should I Prepare for a Breast Lift?

Before your breast lift surgery, Dr. Bohley will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for your procedure. If you are given any recommendations for lifestyle or weight changes, do your best to achieve them before your surgery.

In advance of your procedure, Dr. Bohley will ask you to do the following in order to ensure a successful outcome. If you are a smoker, you should stop smoking at least six weeks before for a safe healing process. Also, eat a healthy diet. This means reducing alcohol consumption and sticking to high-protein, low-sodium foods. Furthermore, it is important to set up a support system, including arrangements for child and pet care.

Because breast lifts are outpatient surgeries, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. Also, be aware that you will not be able to raise your arms above your head while healing, so any hard-to-reach objects should be moved for easy access.

Breast Lift FAQs

Is a breast lift covered by insurance?

As an elective cosmetic surgery, the cost of breast lift is usually not covered by most insurance plans. However, Dr. Bohley provides financing options through CareCredit and Prosper Healthcare.

Do you lose sensation with breast lift?

Loss of sensation after a breast lift is rare. In some cases, patients may temporarily lose sensation, but regain it after the healing process is complete.

Do you still have feeling in your nipples after breast lift?

Most patients will retain feeling in their nipples following a breast lift.

Does a breast lift cost more than implants?

Because the procedure is slightly more involved and may require larger incisions, a breast lift is usually more expensive than breast augmentation. However its worth mentioning that the procedures accomplish different tasks and are not interchangeable.

How do you shower after a breast lift?

After a breast lift, it is generally recommended that you shower by removing all gauze from the incisions but leave any steristrips in place according to your plastic surgeons directions. After showering, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.

How long does it take for breast lift scars to heal?

Incisions from breast lift surgery are typically red and raised until about six months after the procedure.

Does a breast lift leave scars?

Yes, the incision pattern used in breast lift surgery will leave slight but visible scars. Dr. Bohley works to ensure any scarring is minimized through after-care instructions as well as surgical precision.

Does a breast lift make your nipples less sensitive?

Any changes in nipple sensitivity following a breast lift are usually temporary, although in some cases this change may be permanent.

Does insurance pay for breast lift?

Health insurance does not cover the cost of a breast lift, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure.

Do I need a breast lift or just implants?

If you have sagging breasts but are generally happy with their volume, you are probably better served by a breast lift. If you would also like to add volume with implants, a combination procedure can help.

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What Should I Expect During Recovery?

Performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, the procedure usually takes about three hours. You may have tiny drains in your breasts for the first 24 to 48 hours. The drains and any bandaging will be removed after 48 hours. Dr. Bohley will recommend that you wear a compression garment for support and also prescribe medication for the discomfort.

Your stitches will be removed within two to three weeks and you will see continuous improvement in the size and shape of your breasts with time. Most women return to desk jobs within a week of their surgery. Usually, within four to six weeks, most routine activities can be resumed.

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What Will my Results be From a Breast Lift?

Typically, surgeons sculpt your entire breast tissue and reposition your nipples, giving you long-lasting results. In the absence of pregnancy and considerable weight fluctuations, your results should last you a couple of decades. Continue to be in touch with our Portland, Oregon office for follow-up appointments as needed.