A breast lift is a complex procedure that requires highly specialized techniques and expertise. A board-certified plastic surgeon must take into account factors like existing skin laxity and size, breast shape and placement, as well as lifestyle and goals.
The amount of reshaping that needs to be done to achieve a desired result and the degree of difficulty will affect the total cost. The cost of a breast lift also includes the cost of pre-operative and post-operative care, as well as any surgical and anesthesia fees.
In addition, any additional procedures— such as breast augmentation or breast reduction— that may need to be done in conjunction with the lift will add to the overall cost. Overall, a breast lift is an investment in yourself and your future, and the cost reflects the skill and expertise required to achieve the perfect outcome.
How much does it cost to get a breast lift?
The cost of a breast lift can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the procedure, where you live, and the surgeon performing the procedure. Generally, the average price for a breast lift in the United States is between $4,800 and $8,500, although this price can go up to $9,000 and even $15,000 for more complex procedures.
Costs typically include the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, post-operative care, and any other required tests and medications. Be sure to discuss all fees with your plastic surgeon before scheduling the operation.
Additionally, many health insurance plans do not cover breast lifts that are performed solely for cosmetic reasons.
How long does a breast lift last?
The results of a breast lift can last for 10 years or more. Factors such as age, skin elasticity, family history, gravity, and weight will determine how long your results will last. The benefits of a breast lift can last for years, however, gravity and the aging process will continue to affect the area over time so additional touch ups may be required to maintain the desired results.
Additionally, the skin will continue to naturally lose elasticity and be impacted by external factors such as diet, lifestyle, and other experiences. Therefore, while the results of a breast lift can last for a long time, it is important to be mindful of the impact that external factors have on your body in order to maintain the desired outcome.
Is a breast lift painful?
The answer to this question really depends on the individual. Some people may experience only minor pain associated with a breast lift, while others may find the procedure more painful. Generally speaking, there may be some discomfort during and after a breast lift, as it is a surgical procedure.
The two main sources of pain associated with a breast lift are the anesthesia used during the procedure and the recovery period following the procedure.
During the procedure, patients will receive a type of anesthesia- either general, local, or sedation- which should reduce any pain or discomfort. After the procedure, there may be some pain or discomfort from the incision sites, swelling, and sensitivity to the area.
Some people may find that they experience tenderness and a tingling sensation during recovery.
To minimize discomfort during and after a breast lift, most people are given a prescription for pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help ease any discomfort. Some people may also use cold compresses to reduce swelling and minimize pain.
If you experience any severe or prolonged pain, make sure to let your doctor know as soon as possible.
Is a breast lift cheaper than augmentation?
The cost of either a breast lift or breast augmentation can vary significantly from patient to patient depending on a variety of factors. Generally, a breast lift is typically less expensive than breast augmentation because breast augmentation typically involves additional implants that substantially increase the cost.
It is difficult to determine an overall cost due to numerous factors such as the type of implants used or other procedures that may be necessary for one patients but not for another. Ultimately, the cost of either procedure depends on the individual’s aesthetic goals and procedure plan as determined by their doctor.
What age should you get a breast lift?
The age at which you should get a breast lift (or mastopexy) will depend on a few factors, such as the size and elasticity of your breasts as well as your lifestyle. Generally speaking, most plastic surgeons advise women to wait until they’re at least 18 years old before undergoing this type of procedure, as the body — and breasts — are still developing and changing into adulthood.
If you have had children and breastfeeding, it can also affect the size and shape of your breasts and make them appear droopy and saggy. In this case, and depending on your body and medical history, a breast lift may be recommended after pregnancy for those hoping to restore their breasts to their former shape and volume.
Some women may be eligible for a breast lift at a younger age; however, this is usually done on a case-by-case basis and requires consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate the candidacy.
Regardless of age, it’s important to be mindful that a breast lift is not a way to increase breast size, but rather is designed to create a more youthful appearance by tightening the surrounding skin and reshaping the breast tissue and nipples.
Is breast lift high risk?
The risk of breast lift surgery, like any other type of surgery, cannot be completely eliminated. However, the risk of surgery can be minimized by choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon and following their preoperative and postoperative instructions.
Generally speaking, a breast lift is considered a low-risk procedure with high patient satisfaction if the patient is in good overall health, does not smoke, and follows the instructions of their surgeon.
Possible risks associated with breast lifts include infection, delayed healing, hematoma, adverse reactions to anesthesia, breast asymmetry, capsular contracture, dissatisfaction with the results, and skin necrosis.
The experienced physician will generally take all the necessary steps to avoid these risks, thus minimizing the risk associated with the procedure.
The vast majority of breast lift patients report being very satisfied with the results of the surgery. As with any surgical procedure, it is important to weigh the potential risks against the potential benefits and discuss any concerns with your surgeon.
What does breast lift pain feel like?
The amount and type of pain experienced after a breast lift depends on the individual and the complexity of the procedure. Most patients report a general soreness or pulling sensation in the breasts, similar to the sensation experienced after a strenuous workout.
Additionally, there is often tenderness and a feeling of tightness in the breast and chest area. Some minor burning or itching is normal during the healing process, though any pain that is too severe or unusual should be reported to a physician.
Though the discomfort can range from mild to severe, most people find that the pain subsides over the days and weeks after surgery. Patients are often prescribed pain medications to help manage discomfort during the recovery process.
Taking pain medications as prescribed by the doctor can help minimize pain and discomfort after the procedure.
Does bra size change with breast lift?
Yes, bra size can change with a breast lift. A breast lift is a type of cosmetic procedure that is used to raise and reshape sagging breasts. During the procedure, excess skin is removed and tissues are reshaped to create a firmer, more youthful-looking bust.
Since the surgery affects the shape of the breast, it can also cause changes to the size of the breast and may even require new cup sizes or bra band sizes. While most women end up with a cup size that is similar to the one they started with, cup sizes may increase or decrease depending on the individual results of the surgery.
Additionally, the bra band size may be larger or smaller, depending on the person and the degree of reshape and lift achieved during the procedure.
When can I go braless after breast lift with implants?
It is generally recommended to wait at least 6-8 weeks after a breast lift with implants before going braless. This time frame may vary depending on the specific procedure you underwent, so it is best to consult with your plastic surgeon for your individualized advice on when is best for you.
During the first few weeks of recovery it is important to wear a sports bra 24 hours a day and sleeping with a supportive surgical bra to help protect your incisions and new shape while your body heals.
Additionally, schedule any additional follow-up meetings with your surgeon to properly assess the healing process and make sure your breasts are healing without any complications. Going braless too soon can put too much pressure on the healing incisions, which can increase your risk of infection.
Can I wear a sports bra instead of surgical bra?
No, you should not wear a sports bra instead of a surgical bra after a breast operation or procedure. Sports bras traditionally have a lot of stretch and pressure, which can be harmful for your healing process after an operation.
Surgical bras are specifically designed to hold your breasts in place and limit any movement, applying light pressure. They are also typically softer, both in material and fit, which can be more comfortable for you as you heal.
It’s important to consult your doctor and make sure you have the right type of post-surgery bra to ensure your recovery process is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Is there ever a medical reason for a breast lift?
Yes, there can be a medical reason for a breast lift. Generally, a breast lift is a cosmetic procedure that is used to move the breast and nipple higher up on the chest, which can give it a more youthful appearance.
However, in certain cases, a breast lift may be recommended for medical reasons as well. A breast lift may be recommended for women who have suffered from pregnancy-related changes to their breasts, such as ptosis (sagging of the breasts), due to the loss of skin elasticity and changes in the structures of the breasts.
It may also be recommended for women who have experienced significant weight loss, creating excessive skin and drooping of the breast tissue. Additionally, some women may opt for a breast lift after undergoing mastectomy, which can increase self-confidence and reshape the breasts for a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing silhouette.
Ultimately, there are medical reasons for a breast lift, based on the individual’s medical history and health concerns.
Can a boob lift be covered by insurance?
In most cases, a boob lift (also known as mastopexy or breast lift) cannot be covered by insurance. Insurance companies typically consider a breast lift as a cosmetic procedure and therefore refuse to cover the cost of the procedure.
However, some insurance plans may cover the cost of a boob lift if the procedure is being done in conjunction with another medical issue such as a breast reduction (or reduction mammoplasty). In these cases, the insurance company will typically require that you submit proof that the boob lift is medically necessary in order to qualify for coverage.
Additionally, many insurance plans have an upper limit on how much of the cost they will cover, so it’s important to check with your specific insurance plan to determine what coverage is available.
What is considered medically necessary breast surgery?
Medically necessary breast surgery is any type of breast surgery intended to treat a medical concern or improve a person’s physical health. These surgeries range from therapeutic to reconstructive surgeries and may include the following procedures:
• Lumpectomy: This procedure is used to remove abnormal breast tissue–such as a tumor or cyst–or other breast irregularities.
• Mastectomy: A mastectomy is performed to remove an entire breast in order to prevent or treat breast cancer. In some cases, a partial mastectomy may be performed to only remove a portion of the breast.
• Breast reconstruction: This type of surgery is often used after a mastectomy as a way to rebuild or reconstruct the natural shape and size of the breast. Reconstructive breast surgery can include a variety of procedures, such as using implants or sharing tissue from other parts of the body to rebuild the breast.
• Reduction mammoplasty: Also known as breast reduction surgery, this procedure involves the removal of excess breast and skin tissue in order to reduce the size of overly large breasts. Reduction mammoplasty can help to improve a person’s physical health, particularly if they are experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of overly large breasts.
• Breast augmentation: Also called breast enhancement or augmentation mammoplasty, this procedure involves the use of implants to enlarge the size of the breasts or restore breast fullness.
In some cases, breast surgery may not be considered medically necessary or covered by insurance. Therefore, it is important for anyone considering breast surgery to talk to their doctor and review their insurance coverage.
How do you prove medical necessity for breast reduction?
To prove medical necessity for a breast reduction, a patient should first discuss the need for the procedure with their physician. The physician should capture the patient’s symptoms and the impact these symptoms have on their quality of life in the medical record.
The medical record should include documentation that the patient’s symptoms are not relieved by non-surgical treatments.
The physician should then refer the patient to a plastic surgeon. The plastic surgeon’s evaluation should include assessments of the patient’s medical history, their physical condition, clinical photographs, imaging studies, etc.
The evaluation should also include a detailed description of the patient’s diagnosis and why breast reduction surgery is the appropriate treatment.
Furthermore, to demonstrate medical necessity, the plastic surgeon should provide the patient and their physician with written documentation that includes evidence of the patient’s symptoms, the impacts the symptoms have had on the patient’s quality of life, and how the breast reduction surgery is an appropriate and medically necessary treatment.
The documentation should also include an explanation of the risks and benefits of the procedure so that the patient can make an informed decision about their treatment plan.