Achieve a More Youthful Breast Shape with a Breast Lift from Your Chicago Plastic Surgeon
Over time, factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, and simply the natural aging process can cause breasts to lose their firmness and begin to sag. If you’ve noticed your breasts sitting lower than they used to, or if your nipples now point downward instead of forward, you’re far from alone. A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is one of the most popular procedures for women looking to restore a more youthful, perkier breast contour.
At Northwestern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, our plastic surgeon in Chicago, IL, Dr. John Kim helps patients throughout the city and surrounding suburbs achieve results that look natural and feel like their own. Schedule your breast lift consultation with Dr. Kim by calling (312) 694-0879.
Advanced Care from Your Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
The surgeon you choose matters just as much as the procedure itself. Dr. John Kim is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Chicago known for pairing hands-on surgical skill with a patient-first mindset. Rather than rushing through appointments, he takes the time to really listen, walk through your options, and make sure you feel informed at every stage, which is a big part of why so many patients consider him a top plastic surgeon in Chicago.
His involvement goes well beyond the operating room. Dr. Kim has served as chair of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons Breast and Body Symposium and as Chair of the ASPS Annual Program Breast Sub-committee, roles that keep him closely connected to the latest techniques and standards in breast surgery. Patients at Northwestern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery benefit from that ongoing involvement, from the first conversation all the way through your final follow-up visit.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Unlike breast augmentation, a lift doesn’t change the size of your breasts. Instead, it repositions them higher on the chest wall, restores a firmer shape, and often improves the position and size of the areola as well.
Many patients choose to combine a breast lift with augmentation or a reduction, depending on their goals. Whether you want more volume, less volume, or simply a change in shape and position, this is something Dr. Kim will help you determine during your consultation.
Who’s a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
You may be a strong candidate for a breast lift if you experience:
- Breasts that sag or appear flattened or elongated
- Nipples that point downward or sit below the breast crease
- Loose, stretched skin around the breast
- Uneven breast shape or position
- A desire for a firmer, more youthful contour without changing breast volume significantly
Good overall health, realistic expectations, and stable body weight are important factors for candidacy. If you’re planning future pregnancies, it’s worth discussing timing with Dr. Kim, since pregnancy can affect your results down the line.
What Happens During the Breast Lift Procedure?
Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Here’s a general step-by-step look at what to expect:
- Anesthesia: You’ll be given general anesthesia so you’re comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
- Incisions: Dr. Kim selects an incision pattern based on the degree of sagging and your individual anatomy, which he’ll explain in detail during your consultation.
- Reshaping: Underlying breast tissue is reshaped and lifted to create a firmer, more elevated contour.
- Removing excess skin: Excess, stretched skin is trimmed away to support the new shape.
- Repositioning the nipple and areola: The nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast, and areola size can be adjusted if needed.
- Closing incisions: Incisions are closed with sutures placed to support healing and reduce the visibility of scarring over time.
What to Expect During Recovery
Every patient heals a little differently, but here’s a general idea of the recovery timeline:
- First few days: Expect some swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medication.
- First 1–2 weeks: Most patients take about one to two weeks off work, depending on how physically demanding their job is.
- 4–6 weeks: Light activity can generally resume, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should still be avoided.
- Several months: Swelling continues to subside and scars gradually fade as your final results settle into place.
Dr. Kim’s team will provide personalized aftercare guidance to help support a smooth, safe recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover my breast lift?
In most cases, breast lifts are considered a cosmetic procedure and are not covered by insurance, since they don’t address a functional medical issue the way a breast reduction often does. Our team can walk you through pricing and financing options during your consultation.
Will I have visible scarring after surgery?
Some scarring is a natural part of any breast lift procedure. Dr. Kim uses techniques designed to minimize visibility and place incisions strategically. Scars typically fade significantly over the first year, and our team will guide you on proper scar care to support the healing process.
How long do breast lift results last?
Results are generally long-lasting, but they’re not immune to the natural effects of aging, gravity, and life changes like pregnancy or significant weight fluctuation. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help you enjoy your results for many years.
Can I combine a breast lift with augmentation?
Yes, many patients choose to combine a lift with implants to achieve both a firmer position and added volume in a single procedure. This is a conversation worth having early on, since it can affect incision planning and overall surgical approach. Dr. Kim will help determine the best combination of procedures based on your goals.
Schedule Your Breast Lift Consultation at Our Chicago Plastic Surgery Office!
If sagging breasts have been affecting how you feel in your clothes, your swimsuit, or simply in your own skin, a breast lift could be the change you’ve been looking for. It’s a procedure that doesn’t just reshape your silhouette. It often restores a sense of confidence that ripples into everyday life.
Dr. John Kim and the team at Northwestern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery in Chicago, IL are ready to help you explore your options. As a trusted, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Chicago, Dr. Kim is committed to providing thoughtful, personalized care to every patient who walks through the door, whether you’re coming from downtown Chicago or a neighboring suburb. Don’t hesitate to contact our Chicago plastic surgeon by calling (312) 694-0879.