Restore Lifted, Youthful Contours
Sagging breasts are a natural part of the aging process, childbirth and massive weight loss. A well-done breast lift with our Board-certified Portland plastic surgeon, Dr. Lewis, can reverse some of these effects and restore perky, elevated breasts.
What is a breast lift?
Our breast lift in Portland, Oregon (also called a mastopexy) is a procedure that’s designed to elevate the position of sagging, drooping breasts. It involves trimming away excess tissue, reshaping the breasts, tightening internal structures and repositioning and resizing the areolas. A breast lift is similar to a breast reduction except that only skin, not breast volume, is removed. In patients who desire lifted and larger breasts, a mastopexy with breast augmentation is a great option.
What are Some Signs You May Need a Breast Lift?
Dr. Lewis may recommend a breast lift in Portland if you suffer from:
- Breasts that have lost their shape or volume
- Flat, elongated or pendulous breasts
- Nipples that point downward
- Enlarged or stretched areolas
Why do breasts sag?
With age, the breast skin as well as ligaments within the breast lose a certain degree of their natural elasticity. As a result, the breasts begin to droop. In some women, this drooping is mild and barely noticeable. In others, it is dramatic and can alter their breast shape and overall figure substantially.
In addition to natural, age-related elasticity loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding and massive weight loss are the three leading causes of sagging breasts.
Benefits of a breast lift
- Perky, elevated breasts
- A more youthful overall appearance
- Increased clothing options
- Enhanced self-esteem
Your breast lift surgical options
Standard
This is our most common approach we do during our breast lift in Portland procedure. It involves a standard, anchor-shaped incision around the areola, down the front of the breast and along the bottom crease. It can address breasts that feature significant sagging and droopiness and is a suitable option for most women.
Doughnut
The doughnut approach is less intensive than the standard option, but it also removes less skin. To perform this procedure, Dr. Lewis will create incisions around your areolas and remove a small “doughnut” of tissue from around them. He will then sew the skin closed to tighten the breast envelope. The scarring is minimal, but this surgery is only appropriate for women with small breasts and minimal droop.
Lollipop
The ideal option for women who require a moderate lift, the lollipop approach involves an incision around the nipple and areola and down the front of the breast. It is associated with less scarring than the standard approach, but Dr. Lewis can remove more tissue when compared to the doughnut technique.
The day of your surgery
When you arrive for your Portland breast lift, at Dr. Lewis' office, he will begin by marking your chest to guide him through the procedure. You will then receive general anesthesia from an anesthesiologist to ensure your comfort and safety.
Once your surgery is complete, Dr. Lewis will bandage your breasts and provide you with a compression garment designed to maintain your new breast shape and minimize discomfort. You will be free to return home the very same day to begin the healing process, though you will need a friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Your Recovery
You should prepare to take about a week to rest immediately after your surgery. During this time, avoid bending and lifting, and begin lightly walking around the house to promote circulation. In about a week, many of our Portland breast lift patients are able to return to sedentary work and most can resume exercising within four to six weeks.
Breast Lift – Frequently Asked Questions
Is a breast lift covered by insurance?
Because a mastopexy is considered cosmetic, it is rarely covered by insurance plans. Exceptions are uncommon and generally relate to reconstructive needs after cancer or trauma. Dr. Lewis’s team will provide a detailed cost estimate and, if applicable, assist with any pre‑authorization paperwork.
How long does a breast‑lift surgery with Dr. Lewis take?
Operating time varies according to the degree of lift required, but most standalone breast‑lift procedures last between 2 and 3 hours from first incision to final suture.
Will I still be able to breast‑feed after surgery?
Most patients retain the ability to breast‑feed because the milk ducts remain largely intact. However, any breast surgery carries a small risk of reduced lactation. If future breast‑feeding is important to you, discuss it with Dr. Lewis so he can tailor his technique accordingly.
When can I switch from a surgical bra to sports or underwire bras?
Plan to wear the provided compression or soft‑support bra 24/7 for the first 4–6 weeks. Once Dr. Lewis confirms stable healing and swelling has subsided, you may transition to wireless sports bras, and then to underwire styles—typically around the 8‑week mark.
Schedule an appointment today >>
A breast lift with our Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Matthew Lewis, can transform your figure and your self-esteem. Contact Portland, Oregon plastic surgery center today to schedule an appointment and begin planning for your new body.
A Portland Plastic Surgeon
407 NW 17TH AVE, STE 2Portland, OR 97209
Matthew Lewis,MD
Discover your true beauty. At the office of Dr. Matthew Lewis, we take everything into consideration, including your comfort, discretion, and of course your outcome. Please call us to schedule an appointment.