How to Tell If You Need a Breast Lift

Women’s bodies undergo many incredible changes throughout their lifetimes, especially the miracles of childbirth and breastfeeding. Due to aging, weight and hormonal fluctuations, and other factors, you may look in the mirror one day and notice your breasts aren’t as perky as they used to be. The cumulative effects of gravity and time can take their toll on your breast profile, causing the breasts to take on a flat or deflated appearance. Even more modestly endowed women can experience sagging as they get older.

If you’re considering surgery to restore your breasts to a more youthful position, you may be wondering if you’re a good candidate for breast lift surgery. A breast lift – with or without implants – can improve your breasts’ shape and projection, creating a more feminine silhouette. Here are three telltale signs that you need a breast lift.

1. Your Nipples Point Downward

Sagging tissue and volume loss can cause the nipples and areolas to change position, stretch, or grow. If your nipples now point below your breasts’ creases, you may wish to consider breast lift surgery. Dr. Desman can reposition your nipples and areolas while raising your breasts to the ideal spot on your chest wall. If desired, he can also reshape enlarged nipples and areolas during the procedure.

2. Your Breasts Fail the “Pencil Test”

Another method for determining the degree of sagging you’re experiencing and deciding whether you’re a good candidate for a breast lift is to try the “pencil test.” Lift one of your breasts, and place a pencil, pen, or another similarly sized object in your breast crease. If the item stays put, you should consider scheduling a breast lift consultation with Dr. Desman. If the object falls out of your breast crease, your chest has enough remaining perkiness that you can wait a few more years.

3. Your Breasts Have Lost Volume

Expert breast surgeons use the word “volume” to describe how full and round the breasts appear. If you’ve recently lost a significant amount of weight, you might notice that your breasts now look smaller and flatter. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the breasts to grow by one or more cup sizes and then deflate. If this is the case for you, a breast lift can help tighten any loose or sagging skin.

Combining a Breast Lift With an Augmentation

Many women who have always been dissatisfied with the size, symmetry, and projection of their breasts can opt to have Dr. Desman add breast implants while he performs the breast lift surgery. If your breasts have lost significant volume, especially in their upper half, Dr. Desman can simultaneously improve multiple concerns with either silicone or saline implants.

Northern Virginia’s Leading Breast Surgeon

Dr. Eric Desman has been serving clients in the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for 20 years. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, he has reached the pinnacle of his field, using this acquired knowledge and expertise for his patients’ benefit.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward breast lift surgery or any other procedures we offer at Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery, we invite you to call us for a complimentary consultation.