Breast Lift (Mastopexy) in Gig Harbor, WA
Restore a firmer, more youthful breast position with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Melissa Larsen, serving Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound area.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes breasts that have become drooping or sagging over time. It does not significantly change breast size — rather, it restores a more youthful position and contour by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Patients commonly pursue a breast lift after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or simply as a result of aging and gravity.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A breast lift may be appropriate for patients who:
Have breasts that sag or droop, with nipples pointing downward
Notice the nipple or areola sits below the natural breast fold
Have excess skin or stretched skin on the lower breast
Have breasts that have lost firmness or shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
Are at a stable weight and in good overall health
Have realistic expectations about the outcome
During consultation, Dr. Larsen evaluates the degree of ptosis (drooping), skin quality, and your personal goals to determine the most appropriate technique and incision pattern for your anatomy.
Procedure Overview
Breast lift surgery is performed at an accredited outpatient surgical facility.
In general:
Surgery typically takes 2–3 hours
Performed under general anesthesia
Excess skin is removed and breast tissue is reshaped and repositioned
The nipple and areola are repositioned to a more natural, youthful height
Incision pattern is selected based on the degree of sagging — options range from a small incision around the areola to a vertical or anchor-shaped incision; Dr. Larsen will recommend the approach that achieves the best result for your anatomy
Patients return home the same day. Implant selection and surgical technique are individualized for each patient.
Recovery
Recovery timelines vary slightly, but most patients follow a general pattern:
Week 1 Swelling, bruising, and tightness are common. A surgical bra is worn for support. Light walking is encouraged and most daily activities around the home are manageable.
Weeks 1–2 Swelling and bruising gradually improve. Most patients return to desk work. Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling.
Weeks 3–4 Energy and comfort continue to improve. Light lower body exercise may resume as directed.
Week 6+ Most normal activities and workouts can resume. Dr. Larsen monitors healing at follow-up visits throughout recovery.
Results
A breast lift restores a firmer, more elevated breast position and a more youthful overall contour.
Initial swelling decreases over several weeks
Breast shape settles into its final position gradually
Final results are typically fully apparent at 3–6 months
Scars fade considerably over time and are positioned to remain within the natural breast contour
Results are long-lasting, though the natural aging process, gravity, and weight fluctuations will continue to affect breast appearance over time. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a breast lift change my size? A breast lift primarily addresses position and shape rather than volume. Patients looking to increase size alongside a lift may wish to discuss breast augmentation as a separate procedure. Dr. Larsen can advise on the appropriate timing and approach during consultation.
How noticeable will the scars be? Scarring depends on the incision technique used. Dr. Larsen selects the least extensive incision pattern that will achieve your desired result, and scars are positioned within the natural breast contour. They typically fade significantly over 12–18 months.
Can I breastfeed after a lift? Breastfeeding may be possible after mastopexy, though it cannot be guaranteed. Patients who plan future pregnancies are generally advised to wait, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect results.
How long do results last? Results are long-lasting but not permanent. Aging, gravity, and significant weight changes will gradually affect breast position over time. Many patients enjoy their results for many years before any revision is considered.
What does a breast lift cost? Pricing depends on your individual anatomy and the surgical technique required. Financing options are available — learn more here.
Meet Dr. Melissa Larsen, MD
Dr. Melissa Larsen is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon serving patients in Gig Harbor and the greater Tacoma area. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and completed her six-year Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Integrated Residency at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Larsen is committed to personalized care that achieves natural, balanced results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larsen to discuss your goals, review your options, and find out if a breast lift is right for you.