Breast Lift Overview

What is a Breast Lift?

Breast lift surgery, also called a mastopexy, addresses sagging breast tissue and excessive skin that commonly occurs as a result of pregnancy, weight changes, and the aging process. The procedure rejuvenates the breasts by elevating the nipple, reshaping the breast gland, and removing excess skin to create a more youthful and beautiful shape.

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Breast Lift Before & After Photos

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Dr. Zenn’s Approach

Dr. Zenn always lets his patient’s concerns and goals guide treatment planning. There are many mastopexy techniques, and over his decades-long career, Dr. Zenn has tried them all and has mastered those that have produced great, long-lasting results. By carefully listening to what a patient wants to change about their breasts and how they want them to look after surgery, Dr. Zenn can select the best technique for their needs.

Breast lift surgery is more complex and technically difficult than breast augmentation. Experience is key during a breast lift procedure. As a breast lift is really a reshaping surgery, it requires adjustments and modifications in real time that only an experienced and highly proficient surgeon can consistently handle well.

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Dr. Zenn’s Typical Aesthetic Goals are to:

  • Reshape the breasts into a perkier, youthful shape that is attractive, natural-looking, and symmetrical
  • Reposition the breasts to sit higher on the chest in order to create cleavage that fills a bra comfortably and allows for more clothing options
  • Ensure the position and size of the nipple and areola are correct to complement the new shape of the breasts

When a Combination Procedure is Ideal

Breast sagging often coincides with a lack of volume in the upper slope of the breast. In many cases, patients benefit from a combination of breast lift and breast augmentation. The augmentation can also incorporate breast implants or fat grafting. A combination procedure with the addition of breast volume can help patients reclaim the youthful shape they lost over time or finally achieve the breasts of their dreams.

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A Combination of an Artistic Eye and Technical Expertise

The breast lift in Raleigh is one of Dr. Zenn’s favorite operations because it is artistic – he is literally reshaping the breast. No two patients are alike. A cookie-cutter approach to breast lift surgery does not deliver universally good outcomes. It takes an experienced surgeon with an artistic eye to deliver beautiful breast lift results tailored to each patient.

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What Can a Breast Lift Do for Me?

A breast lift provides multiple benefits, improving both aesthetics and comfort. From enhancing symmetry to alleviating discomfort, this procedure offers a personalized solution to help you feel more confident and at ease in your body. 

Benefits include:

  • Restores a Youthful Shape: Lifts and reshapes the breasts for a firmer, more rejuvenated appearance.
  • Improves Breast Symmetry: Creates a more balanced look by correcting unevenness.
  • Enhances Nipple Position: Raises and repositions the nipples for a more natural placement.
  • Boosts Confidence: Helps you feel more comfortable in and out of clothing.
  • Reduces Discomfort: Minimizes skin irritation and strain caused by sagging.

Dr. Zenn's on the Benefits of a Breast Lift

What Are the Benefits of Breast Lift?

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Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is best suited for individuals who want to enhance breast shape and position. Several factors can determine whether this procedure is the right choice.

Ideal candidates for a breast lift: 

  • Experience Breast Sagging: Noticeable loss of firmness or drooping.
  • Have Nipples That Point Downward: Low or downward-facing nipples due to sagging.
  • Have Uneven or Asymmetrical Breasts: One breast sits lower than the other.
  • Are at a Stable Weight: Significant weight fluctuations can affect long-term results.
  • Are in Good Overall Health: Non-smokers with no medical conditions that impair healing.

During your consultation, Dr. Zenn will assess your health, goals, and the condition of your breasts to determine if a breast lift is the right procedure for you.

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Your Breast Lift Consultation

During your initial appointment, Dr. Zenn will encourage you to openly share how you feel about the size, shape, and fullness of your breasts. This is an important time for you to talk about what you specifically like and dislike about the way your breasts look, and the changes you would like to achieve.

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Your Breast Lift Experience

Immediately before your surgery, Dr. Zenn will review the surgical plan with you and make specialized markings to guide the breast lift. For your safety, Zenn Plastic Surgery patients have their procedures at a state-of-the-art surgical facility, The Plastic Surgery Center (TPSC). A board-certified anesthesiologist (MD) helps patients sleep safely and comfortably throughout the surgery and keeps anesthesia side effects minimal.

During the Surgery Dr. Zenn Will:

  • Remove excess skin and reshape tissues to give your breasts an uplifted, more beautiful shape, augmenting the breasts if desired
  • Reposition your nipples on your breasts and if required, reduce the size of the areolas
  • Ensure that your breasts look natural and symmetrical whether you are lying down or standing upright
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Your Recovery From Breast Lift Surgery

Following your breast lift in Raleigh, you will want to take it easy for 2-3 days before returning to work and light activities. It’s not uncommon to have bruising, swelling, and some tenderness in your breasts and the surrounding areas as you heal. 

Your scars will heal enough to tolerate the stress of full regular gym workouts 2-4 weeks after surgery. Expect to have very minimal swelling, if any at all, by the end of your recovery at two months. Finally, you will find yourself with your much more full and natural-appearing figure.

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Why Choose Dr. Zenn for Your Breast Lift in Raleigh, NC?

Dr. Zenn is known for his calm, approachable nature and dedication to patient comfort. He and his team take a personalized approach, ensuring every patient feels welcomed, heard, and genuinely cared for throughout their experience.

  • Named one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons for Breast Procedures by Newsweek (2021-2024)
  • Educated at Cornell and UPenn (Alpha Omega Alpha & Phi Beta Kappa Honor Societies)
  • Completed surgical residencies at Harvard/Mass General and Cornell/NY Presbyterian
  • Specialized in facial surgery through a fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering
  • Former Vice Chief & Professor at Duke Plastic Surgery, leading its residency program for 10 years
  • 25+ years of experience in complex facial surgery, recognized internationally as a leader in the field
  • Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Breast Lift FAQ

How should I prepare for a breast lift?

Will I have scars?

How long will my results last?

What are some complementary procedures?

How long does the surgery take?

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

Are there any risks/complications associated with breast lifts?

What if I get pregnant after my breast lift?

How should I prepare for a breast lift?

Before your breast lift, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Zenn to discuss your health, goals, and medical history. You may be asked to avoid smoking, certain medications, and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and assist with your recovery.

Will I have scars?

Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, but Dr. Zenn will make incisions in strategic locations to minimize visibility. The most common incision patterns are around the areola, vertically down the breast, or along the breast crease. Scars typically fade over time and can be concealed under clothing or swimwear.

How long will my results last?

The results of a breast lift are long-lasting, but they won’t stop the natural aging process or prevent future changes from pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or gravity. However, maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results.

What are some complementary procedures?

Many patients choose to combine a breast lift with other procedures, such as breast augmentation with implants or fat grafting, for added volume. A tummy tuck or mommy makeover is also popular for those looking to address multiple areas at once.

How long does the surgery take?

A breast lift typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional procedures are being performed.

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

General anesthesia is typically used during a breast lift, ensuring you are fully asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.

Are there any risks/complications associated with breast lifts?

As with any surgery, a breast lift carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. However, these risks are relatively low when the procedure is performed by a skilled surgeon like Dr. Zenn.

What if I get pregnant after my breast lift?

Pregnancy can affect the shape and position of your breasts, potentially altering the results of your breast lift. If you plan to have children in the future, it may be best to wait until you’re finished with childbearing before undergoing the procedure.

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