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What to Expect From a Breast Reduction and Lift

Posted August 14, 2025 in Breast Reduction

Curvy woman at the beach

If you have large breasts, you may be living with daily inconveniences like back or shoulder pain, limited clothing choices, or interference with your active lifestyle. Heavy breasts also may start to droop and sag earlier, so for a boost in confidence and relief from discomfort, you may be considering surgery—not just to reduce the size of your breasts but also to lift them to a perkier position. A common question potential breast reduction patients ask is if they can get a breast lift at the same time to address both issues. In this blog, we’ll go over what you need to know about getting a breast lift and breast reduction at the same time.

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Can a Breast Reduction and Lift Be Performed at the Same Time?

Yes—these two breast procedures are often performed together because they complement each other so well. A breast reduction focuses on removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create smaller, more proportionate breasts. A breast lift (mastopexy), on the other hand, repositions your breasts higher on your chest and reshapes them for a firmer, perkier appearance. In most cases, a breast lift is already part of your breast reduction procedure, because a breast reduction also includes repositioning your nipples in the center of your now-smaller breasts. Combining the two procedures is a natural way to create more comprehensive results, addressing both the size and the position of your breasts in a single surgery.

Dr. Cha performs breast lift and reduction procedures in tandem, as many patients whose breasts are too large also struggle with sagging. Hence, the two surgeries combined offer more pleasing results.

What Happens During My Breast Reduction With a Lift Procedure?

Your breast reduction with lift surgery will be performed under general anesthesia and typically takes two to four hours, depending on the complexity. Dr. Cha begins by making the appropriate incisions, which are usually placed around the areola and extend vertically down to the breast crease (known as a lollipop incision). For more extensive correction, Dr. Cha may use the lollipop pattern with an additional incision along the fold beneath the breast (known as an anchor incision).

After the incisions are made, excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue are carefully removed. The remaining breast tissue is resculpted and lifted higher on your chest. Your nipples may be repositioned and the areolas resized for better symmetry and proportion.

Once Dr. Cha achieves the desired breast shape and size, the incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied. You may also have small surgical drains placed to help prevent fluid buildup during the initial healing period.

What Is Recovery Like After Breast Reduction With a Lift?

Recovery after a breast reduction with lift varies slightly from person to person, depending on the extent of the surgery. You’ll return home the day of your surgery and should focus on resting for the first few days. You’ll likely experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, but these are easily managed with prescription or over-the-counter pain medication.

You will need to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support your healing breasts and help minimize swelling. You’ll also need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and activities, and refrain from sleeping on your stomach for a few weeks. You can typically return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the physical demands of your job. You can also resume light exercise after three to four weeks, gradually working up to full activity by about six weeks after your procedure.

How Long Do the Results From a Breast Reduction With a Lift Last?

The results from your breast reduction with a lift are designed to be long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and adhere to a healthy lifestyle. You’ll notice an immediate difference in the size and shape of your breasts after surgery, though it may take a few months for swelling to fully subside and your final results to settle in.

That said, your breasts will still be subject to the natural aging process, gravity, and hormonal changes. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and time may eventually cause some changes in the overall firmness and position of your breasts. However, most patients who undergo breast reduction with a lift enjoy their results for many years.

Discover Breast Reduction and Breast Lift Surgery in New York City

If you’re seeking relief from oversized or sagging breasts, choosing a breast reduction and lift to reduce excess volume and restore a more youthful and uplifted breast shape can give you both physical relief and more confidence in your appearance. If you’re ready to explore your options, it’s time to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Cha. Dr. Cha is skilled and experienced in breast reduction and breast lift surgeries, and is ready to create a personalized plan to provide you with the beautiful, more proportional silhouette you desire. To schedule an appointment, call today at (212) 717-2222 or complete the online contact form.

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