Breast Lift Surgery in Westchester County, NY
If you’re considering a breast lift to restore a more youthful contour to your breasts, you’ve come to the right place. At New York Plastic Surgical Group, our experienced plastic surgeons have been helping patients throughout the region achieve natural-looking, beautiful results for over 75 years. Whether you’re dealing with sagging caused by age, pregnancy, weight changes, or simply the effects of time, a breast lift, or mastopexy, can help you feel confident in your appearance again.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Quick Facts
- Procedure Time: 2–3 hours
- Anesthesia: General Anesthesia (Outpatient)
- Recovery Time: Return to light activity in 1 week; full exercise in 4–6 weeks, though individual recovery varies
- Results Longevity: 10–15+ years (affected by gravity, aging, and weight changes).
- Combination Tip: Often paired with implants for patients seeking both lift and added volume.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Unlike breast augmentation, which adds volume through implants, a breast lift focuses on repositioning your existing breast tissue to create a higher, firmer, more youthful appearance.
Over time, factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, gravity, and aging can cause the breast tissue to lose elasticity and begin to sag. A breast lift addresses this by removing excess skin, repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position, and reshaping the breast mound for a more lifted, youthful silhouette.1
Am I a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
You may be a good candidate for a breast lift if you meet the following criteria:
- Age 18 or older with fully developed breasts
- Good overall health with no serious medical conditions that would prevent surgery
- Non-smoker or willing to quit smoking for 2 to 4 weeks before and after surgery
- Realistic expectations about results and recovery
- Finished having children or willing to accept that pregnancy may affect results
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Stable weight for at least 6 months prior to surgery
- Bothered by the appearance of sagging or drooping breasts2
During your consultation, our surgeons will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin quality, and goals to determine if a breast lift is the right procedure for you. In some cases, combining a breast lift with augmentation or reduction may provide optimal results.
Surgical Techniques for Breast Lift
There are several surgical techniques available for breast lift, and the best approach depends on the degree of sagging, your breast anatomy, and your aesthetic goals. Our surgeons will recommend the most appropriate technique during your consultation.
Crescent Lift (Minimal Lift)
The crescent lift is ideal for patients with mild sagging. A small crescent-shaped incision is made above the areola, excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is lifted and reshaped. This approach results in minimal scarring and is suitable for patients who need only a slight elevation.
Donut Lift (Periareolar Mastopexy)
The donut lift, also called periareolar mastopexy, is used for moderate sagging. An incision is made around the areola, and excess skin is removed in a donut-shaped pattern. The areola may also be reduced if it has become stretched. This technique provides a moderate lift with scarring that is typically hidden along the areolar border.
Lollipop Lift (Vertical Mastopexy)
The lollipop lift is appropriate for moderate to significant sagging. This technique involves an incision around the areola and a vertical incision extending downward to the breast crease. Excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is lifted and reshaped. The result is a more dramatic lift than the donut technique, with scarring in a lollipop pattern that typically fades well over time.
Anchor Lift (Inverted T Mastopexy)
The anchor lift is used for severe sagging and provides the most dramatic lift. This technique involves an incision around the areola, a vertical incision extending downward, and a horizontal incision along the breast crease, creating an anchor-shaped pattern. While this approach results in more extensive scarring, it allows for significant repositioning and reshaping of the breast tissue. The scars typically fade significantly and are easily hidden by most bras and swimwear.
*modelThe Breast Lift Procedure
Breast lift surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Here is what you can expect:
- Procedure Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia
- Incision Placement: Depends on the technique chosen, ranging from small periareolar incisions to anchor-shaped incisions
- Tissue Repositioning: Excess skin is removed, and breast tissue is lifted and reshaped
- Nipple Repositioning: The nipple and areola are moved to a higher position on the breast mound
- Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures, and the area is bandaged
Recovery and Aftercare
Understanding the recovery process is essential for planning your surgery and ensuring optimal results. While individual recovery timelines vary, here is a general overview of what to expect:
Week 1
Soreness, swelling, and bruising are normal and expected. You will wear a supportive surgical bra continuously to minimize swelling and provide comfort. Pain is managed with prescribed medications. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. Most patients can return to light activities like walking. Avoid driving while taking pain medication.
Weeks 2 to 4
Swelling and bruising gradually decrease. Most patients can return to work and light daily activities. Begin gentle stretching and light exercise as approved by your surgeon. Continue wearing a supportive bra during the day. Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and contact sports.
Weeks 4 to 6
Most visible swelling has resolved. You can gradually return to normal exercise and activities. Avoid high-impact activities and heavy lifting for a few more weeks. Scars begin to fade.
Long-Term Recovery
Final results become apparent as all swelling resolves, typically within 3 to 6 months. Scars continue to fade and mature over 12 to 18 months. You can resume all normal activities, including intense exercise. Results continue to improve as tissues settle into their new position.
*modelResults and Longevity
The results of a breast lift are typically long-lasting, with most patients enjoying their improved appearance for 10 to 15 years or longer. However, the effects of gravity, aging, and future pregnancies can eventually affect your results. Maintaining a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results for as long as possible.3/sup>
Combining Breast Lift with Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine a breast lift with other procedures to achieve their desired aesthetic goals:
Breast Lift with Augmentation: Adding implants during a breast lift can increase volume while also lifting and reshaping the breasts, ideal for patients who want both lift and fullness.
Breast Lift with Reduction: Combining a lift with reduction can address both sagging and overly large breasts, creating a more proportionate, youthful appearance.
Breast Lift with Body Contouring: Some patients combine a breast lift with other body contouring procedures like tummy tuck or liposuction for comprehensive body rejuvenation.
During your consultation, our surgeons will discuss which combination of procedures might be right for you.
Understanding Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries some risks. However, serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. Potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Changes in nipple sensation (usually temporary)
- Asymmetry or uneven results
- Scarring (visible but typically fades significantly over time)
- Anesthesia-related complications (rare)
- Seroma, or fluid accumulation (usually resolves with drainage)
- Delayed wound healing4
During your consultation, our surgeons will discuss these risks in detail and explain how they minimize complications through meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive post-operative care.
Why Choose New York Plastic Surgical Group
Founded in 1948, New York Plastic Surgical Group is the oldest and largest private academic plastic surgery practice in the United States. Our team includes more than 20 plastic surgeons with extensive experience in all aspects of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. We maintain affiliations with multiple regional hospitals, ensuring that our patients receive care that meets the highest standards of excellence.
Our surgeons bring specialized training from some of the most prestigious institutions in the country. Each member of our team is committed to delivering natural-looking, beautiful results through a patient-centered approach that prioritizes safety, transparency, and individualized care.
With more than 10 locations across Westchester, Long Island, NYC, New Jersey, and surrounding areas, we make it easy for patients throughout the region to access world-class plastic surgery care close to home. From your initial consultation through your final follow-up appointment, our team is with you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results of a breast lift last?
Results typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. However, gravity, aging, and future pregnancies can eventually affect your results. Maintaining a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results.5
Will I have visible scars after a breast lift?
Scarring is an inevitable part of breast lift surgery, but our surgeons use meticulous techniques to minimize visibility. Scars typically fade significantly over 12 to 18 months and are easily hidden by most bras and swimwear. The location and extent of scarring depend on the surgical technique used.
Does insurance cover tummy tuck surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, if the procedure is performed for medical reasons (such as addressing back pain or skin irritation caused by excess abdominal skin), insurance coverage may be possible. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to discuss your specific situation.
Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?
In most cases, yes. Breast lift surgery typically preserves the ability to breastfeed, as the procedure focuses on repositioning tissue rather than removing milk ducts. However, there is a small risk of reduced sensation or difficulty breastfeeding in some cases. Discuss your plans for future breastfeeding with your surgeon during your consultation.
What is the difference between a breast lift and breast augmentation?
A breast lift (mastopexy) elevates and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening tissue. Breast augmentation adds volume through implants. Many patients benefit from combining both procedures to achieve lift and fullness.
How much does a breast lift cost?
The cost of a breast lift varies depending on the surgical technique, surgeon experience, facility fees, and anesthesia costs. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost estimate. Many insurance plans do not cover cosmetic breast lift surgery, but we offer flexible financing options to make the procedure more accessible.
When can I return to exercise after a breast lift?
You can begin light walking within the first week. Gentle stretching and light exercise can resume around weeks 2 to 4. High-impact activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your individual recovery.
Is a breast lift right for me?
The best way to determine if a breast lift is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. During your consultation, we will evaluate your breast anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate procedure or combination of procedures.
Contact Us
Ready to explore your breast lift options? Schedule a consultation with the plastic surgery team at New York Plastic Surgical Group. We serve patients throughout Westchester County and the surrounding region. During your personalized consultation, we will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your candidacy, and develop a customized surgical plan tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to take the first step toward the confident, youthful appearance you deserve.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Lift. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift. Accessed March 8, 2026.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for breast lift surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/candidates. Accessed March 8, 2026.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. How long do breast lift results last? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/how-long-do-breast-lift-results-last. Accessed March 9, 2026.
4 Mayo Clinic. Breast Lift. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-lift/about/pac-20393218. Accessed March 9, 2026.
5 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. How long do breast lift results last? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/how-long-do-breast-lift-results-last. Accessed March 9, 2026.
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