Introduction to Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
At the Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, Breast Lift is one of our most popular procedures. Over the years, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and the force of gravity take their toll on a woman’s breasts. As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag. At our practice, Dr. Nikolov offers his skills and expertise to help you have a more volumized bust with Breast Lift surgery.
Dr. Nikolov strives to deliver the best breast lift in Beverly Hills by always practicing patient safety. If you’re interested in getting a breast lift, we’ve provided our guide to the procedure below. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to book a consultation.
Breast Lift Basics
- Surgery Time: Breast lift in Beverly Hills takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the specifics of the surgery
- Recovery Time: A breast lift in Los Angeles is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients will recover at home. Patients can expect their final results in around 6 weeks following surgery after swelling goes down.
- Results: Results from breast enhancement typically last 10-20 years.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts. While no surgery can stop the effects of gravity, the results of this
Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. If your breasts are small or have lost volume–for example, after pregnancy–breast implants inserted in conjunction with mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size.
Dr. Nikolov’s Breast Lift Expertise
in Beverly Hills
- Dr. Nikolov is a board-certified plastic surgeon: This means he’s expertly trained in breast lift surgery and has met certain criteria only awarded to surgeons able to claim board-certified status.
- Dr. Nikolov is a member of ASPS & ASAPS: The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society are the two most prestigious societies in plastic surgery. Only plastic surgeons who meet certain criteria are able to join these societies.
- Dr. Nikolov is a Beverly Hills Top Doc: Top Doc providers have been certified by publications to validate they are real providers
- Dr. Nikolov has over 20 years of experience: Having created the practice over 20 years ago, Dr. Nikolov has over two decades of experience providing breast lift in Beverly Hills, making him one of the most experienced surgeons in Los Angeles.
- Dr. Nikolov is internationally recognized: Over the years, Dr. Nikolov has had practices in multiple countries around the world, making him one of the most sought-after surgeons for breast lift worldwide.
- Media Appearances: Dr. Nikolov has been featured on almost every national media outlet for his work in aesthetics, including CNN, MSN, E, and more.
What are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?
A breast lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily change your looks to match your ideal or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Nikolov.
- Better breast appearance
- Firmer breasts
- Improved physical health
- Rejuvenated look
Many women seek mastopexy because pregnancy and nursing have left them with stretched skin and less volume in their breasts. However, if you’re planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your breast lift. While there are no special risks that affect future pregnancies (for example, mastopexy usually doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding), pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the results of the procedure.
What’s the First Step?
If you feel like a breast lift is right for you, the first thing you’ll need to do after you’ve finished researching the procedure is to call the Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery and schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Nikolov. During this appointment, he will discuss your goals and aspirations in getting this surgery, answer any questions or concerns you may have, and give you an evaluation. He will also discuss your medical history to ensure he makes the best decisions to give you a safe and effective surgical experience. It is very important that you are completely open and honest with Dr. Nikolov. Everything will be kept confidential and the more he knows, the less opportunity there is for risks.
After he has all of this information, Dr. Nikolov will create your surgical plan. If you agree with this plan, the next step is to schedule your procedure with our Patient Coordinator. Before you leave our office, you will also be provided with a list of instructions to follow pre-surgery that will help you yield optimal results.
How do I prepare for my Breast Lift procedure?
After your breast lift with Dr. Nikolov has been scheduled, you will need to begin preparing for the day of surgery. You will be strongly encouraged to carefully read all of the provided pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Below are some tips to keep in mind to have a smoother surgical procedure and stressless recovery:
- Become well-informed
Knowledge is power. No matter what your questions or concerns are, please do not hesitate to contact The Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery if you would like to learn more about something. - Set-up Transportation
You will need a ride home after your surgical procedure. Arranging transportation with a family member or friend to and from the surgical center will not only allow you to return safely home so you can rest comfortably, but it also allows you to ease into your recovery without worry. - Schedule time-off
Sufficient recovery time is necessary after surgery for your Beverly Hills breast implants in order to heal properly. This means taking the recommended amount of time off from work or school so that you will have adequate rest time. - Keep an up-to-date calendar
After surgery, you will be required to attend follow-up appointments so that Dr. Nikolov and his team can monitor your recovery. While we try to work with your schedule, it’s important to be available for these checkups because they are vital to a successful recovery. - Be aware people will notice a difference
This procedure is a deeply personal one and no one should influence your personal opinion and feelings about undergoing surgery. That being said, you can be guaranteed that SOMEONE will notice. While you don’t have to share anything you don’t want to, it does help to have an idea of how to explain your recent physical changes. - Have prescriptions filled and picked up
We strongly recommend picking up your pain medications before surgery. Not only will it be one less thing on your plate, but you will be able to immediately use them after your procedure. - Stock up
The last thing you want during recovery is to feel bored or hungry, so make sure you get that book you’ve been wanting to read and any food you may crave as you heal. Preparing for your recovery while you’re in full health will make your post-surgical experience that much easier. Trust us, Future-You will be incredibly grateful. - Keep any important phone numbers together
In the case of an emergency, or if you have any questions or concerns that pop up having important phone numbers and insurance cards in an accessible location can be a lifesaver, both figuratively and literally. You will also want to share this location with anyone assisting you during recovery. - Arrange home assistance
Having a responsible adult available to at least stop by daily and assist with minor chores and help prepare meals. It is common for patients to be sore and tired the first couple of days post-surgery, so having someone there to help you will make a world of difference during your recovery - Breathe and relax
Once you’ve taken care of all the preparations, your procedure should become a life-changing one. With Dr. Nikolov and his team, you are in qualified and experienced hands and he will compassionately walk with you throughout your surgical journey.
What to Expect on the Day of a Breast Lift
Your breast lift procedure can be achieved through a variety of incision patterns and techniques.
The appropriate technique for you will be determined based on:
- Breast size and shape
- The size and position of your areolas
- The degree of breast sagging
- Skin quality and elasticity as well as the amount of extra skin
There are three common incision patterns:
- Around the areola
- Around the areola and vertically down from the areola to the breast crease
- Around the areola, vertically down from the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease
Once Dr. Nikolov makes the incisions the underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness. The nipple and areola are then repositioned to a natural, more youthful height. If necessary, enlarged areolas are reduced by excising skin at the perimeter. Finally, any excess breast skin is removed to compensate for a loss of elasticity.
After your breasts are reshaped and excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is tightened as the incisions are closed. Some incision lines resulting from breast lift are concealed in the natural breast contours; however, others are visible on the breast surface. Incision lines are permanent, but in most cases will fade and significantly improve over time. Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts. Sutures, skin adhesives, and/or surgical tape may be used to close the skin.
Most women desire the smallest scar possible. However, Dr. Nikolov will recommend the incisions that best suit your anatomy. We strongly advise you to listen to Dr. Nikolov and not diminish your result by demanding an incision that will not be appropriate for you. Dr. Nikolov will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. The scars often remain lumpy and red for months, and then gradually become less obvious, sometimes eventually fading to thin white lines. Fortunately, the scars can usually be placed so that you can wear low-cut tops.
Who are the Best Candidates for a Breast Lift?
The best candidates for getting a breast lift in Beverly Hills with Dr. Nikolov are healthy, emotionally stable women who are realistic about what the surgery can accomplish. The best results are usually achieved in candidates with:
- Desire to improve the appearance of their breasts
- Flat or elongated breasts
- Lost shape or volume in their breasts
- Smaller, sagging breasts
- Stretched skin on their breasts
- Uneven breasts
Breast Lift Recovery
After surgery, you’ll wear an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. Your breasts will be bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable for a day or two, but the pain shouldn’t be severe. Any discomfort you do feel can be relieved with medications prescribed by Dr. Nikolov. Within a few days, the bandages or surgical bra will be replaced by a soft support bra. You’ll need to wear this bra around the clock for three to four weeks, over a layer of gauze. The stitches will be removed after a week or two.
If your breast skin is very dry following surgery, you can apply a moisturizer several times a day. Be careful not to tug at your skin in the process, and keep the moisturizer away from the suture areas. You can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling after surgery. This numbness usually fades as the swelling subsides over the next six weeks or so. In some patients, however, it may last a year or more, and occasionally it may be permanent.
Healing is a gradual process. Although you may be up and about in a day or two, don’t plan on returning to work for a week or more, depending on how you feel. Avoid lifting anything over your head for three to four weeks. If you have any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to call Dr. Nikolov.
Dr. Nikolov will give you detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities. You may be instructed to avoid sex for a week or more and to avoid strenuous sports for about a month. After that, you can resume these activities slowly. If you become pregnant, the operation should not affect your ability to breastfeed, since your milk ducts and nipples will be left intact.
Breast Lift Recovery Tips
Our team will provide you with a full list of instructions to follow that will help you achieve the best results from your surgery. Here are a few of the more common suggestions that we will make:
- Rest as much as possible. The first week after surgery is very important for the healing process, so we recommend resting and relaxing as much as possible during this period. You are recommended to go on short walks (~10 minutes), but avoid any strenuous activity, bending, and pulling.
- Wear your compression garments (bra) 24/7 for the four to six post-surgery. This will help provide protection and support
- Take your medications as directed
- Keep your incision sites clean
- Avoid tobacco products. Smoking can cause shrinkage of blood vessels, which can restrict oxygen flow and slow down healing.
- Eat healthily. Your dietary intake will play an important part in your healing. You should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in vitamin K. You will also need to consume plenty of water during your recovery period.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost in Beverly Hills?
The cost of a breast lift in Beverly Hills is decided on by a variety of factors. The best way to learn how much the procedure will be for you is to have your consultation with Dr. Nikolov. After he is able to create the right surgical plan for you, our Patient Coordinator will be able to give you a price breakdown for the entirety of your treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Nikolov?
As an authority in the field of plastic surgery for more than 20 years, Dr. Nikolov is a diplomat of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has been consulted for numerous television programs and publications and has been featured on CNN, CBS, NBC, and the Discovery Health Channel. He is world-renowned for his keen aesthetic sense that emphasizes body harmony and subtle changes to create a fresh appearance.
Schedule Your Consultation
Every woman deserves to look and feel beautiful, and for many of our Beverly Hills patients, the breast lift has been a wonderful addition in helping them achieve their self-confidence. When you are ready to learn more about a possible breast lift for yourself, you should contact the Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery and have a consultation. Call us at (310) 247-1932 or use our website to request an appointment today!
