Breast Lift in Upland & the Inland Empire
A breast lift, also called mastopexy, raises breasts that have dropped and gives them a firmer, more lifted shape. Instead of adding volume, the surgery removes loose skin and tightens what remains, and the nipple and areola are moved to a higher spot on the breast. Your cup size stays about the same, but the breasts sit higher and look more youthful.
Many women in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga and across the Inland Empire consider a lift after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight changes, or simply as the years go by. A lift can turn back some of those changes, though no surgery can stop gravity and aging for good.
Who is a good candidate?
- Women whose breasts have started to sag or point downward
- Those whose nipples or areolas now sit low or have stretched and widened
- People who are healthy overall and at a fairly steady weight
- Non-smokers, or those willing to stop well before and after surgery
- Women who are finished having children, or who understand that future pregnancy can change results
- Anyone with clear, realistic goals about what a lift can and cannot do
Dr. Smiley's technique and philosophy
Dr. Smiley starts by examining and measuring each breast. He considers your skin quality, breast size and shape, and your age, since each of these affects how a lift will turn out. Together you decide where the nipple and areola should be placed. If you want more fullness in the upper breast as well as more lift, he may suggest pairing the lift with implants.
For most patients, Dr. Smiley uses an anchor-shaped incision that follows the natural curve of the breast. Extra skin is removed along this line, the nipple and areola are raised, and the remaining skin is drawn together to form a rounder, perkier shape. Women with smaller breasts and only mild sagging may be suited to a shorter incision around the edge of the areola. Throughout, he plans incisions with an eye to keeping scars as small and well placed as he can.
What to expect
Consultation
Your first visit takes place at our Upland office at 330 East 7th Street. Dr. Smiley will talk with you about your goals, examine you, and explain the likely scar pattern, the type of anesthesia, and where surgery will be done. Depending on your age and family history, a mammogram may be needed before surgery. You will receive written instructions about eating, drinking, smoking and medications. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092 to set up a visit.
The procedure
Breast lift surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility, not at the Upland consultation office. Most patients have general anesthesia, though a sedative with local numbing may be an option for smaller incisions. Surgery usually takes a few hours, and most women go home the same day.
Recovery
You will wake up in a surgical bra or wrap with light dressings. Soreness, swelling and bruising are normal for the first week or two. Many people return to desk work in one to two weeks and to harder exercise after several weeks. Scars tend to fade slowly over many months. Everyone heals differently, and Dr. Smiley will give you a plan that fits your situation. If you recover during an Inland Empire summer, stay cool, keep incisions out of the sun, and wear a supportive bra as directed.
Before & after photos
Real patients of Dr. Smiley. Results vary; individual results depend on anatomy, health and healing.
See the full Breast Lift before & after gallery on dr-smiley.com
Risks and safety
Every surgery carries risk. With a breast lift, possible issues include bleeding, infection, wider or more visible scars, nipples that are not perfectly even, and changes in nipple or breast sensation that may be long-lasting. Anesthesia carries its own risks as well.
Dr. Smiley reviews these risks with you in detail at your consultation. Following your pre- and post-surgery instructions and avoiding nicotine can help lower your chances of problems. No surgeon can promise a specific result.
Frequently asked questions
Will a breast lift make my breasts bigger?
No. A lift reshapes and raises the breasts but does not add volume. If you want more fullness, Dr. Smiley may talk with you about combining a lift with implants.
How long does a breast lift last?
Results can last for years, but breasts keep aging. Weight changes, pregnancy and gravity can all cause some sagging to return over time.
Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?
Many women can, but surgery may affect milk ducts or nipple sensation. If you plan to have more children, bring this up at your consultation.
When can I go back to work after a breast lift?
Many people with desk jobs return in about one to two weeks. Jobs that involve lifting usually need more time. Dr. Smiley will advise you based on how you heal.
Book your consultation in Upland. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092. Consultations are complimentary.
Learn more about this procedure on Dr. Smiley's main site: Breast Lift at dr-smiley.com.