Breast Lift in Chicago, IL

Breast tissue naturally changes over time. Stretching, gravity, weight shifts, and aging can all contribute to sagging, regardless of breast size. While these changes are expected, many women want to address them through a breast lift. At Dr. Karol A. Gutowski’s practice in Glenview, IL, we approach each breast lift with careful planning based on your anatomy and goals. Every patient is different, and we take time to understand what matters most in your case. We’re here to guide you through the process.

What Is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a surgical method used to lift sagging breasts by reshaping and repositioning the breast tissue. It can also involve adjusting the nipple position and removing stretched skin to improve the overall breast contour. This procedure is often chosen when the breasts have shifted lower on the chest wall because of various factors such as aging or pregnancy. The approach we use depends on your specific situation and how much repositioning is required for the desired results.

Why Women Choose a Breast Lift

Sagging After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, followed by the physical demands of breastfeeding, can lead to stretched breast tissue and fluctuations in volume. Many women notice that their breasts appear deflated or sit lower on the chest than before childbirth. A breast lift can help restore breast shape after pregnancy by removing excess skin and repositioning the tissue.

Weight Fluctuations or Major Weight Loss

Major changes in weight can affect the skin’s ability to contract, especially in the breast area. As the body size shifts, the breasts may lose fullness and begin to droop, with skin that doesn’t always bounce back. A lift can reshape the breast mound to match your current frame.

Aging and Loss of Skin Elasticity

As collagen and elastin levels decline with age, the skin becomes less supportive, and the breasts may gradually descend on the chest. This process can be slow and vary in degree, but over time, it often results in nipples pointing downward or falling below the breast crease. A breast lift addresses these changes by tightening the tissue and returning the breast to a higher, more supported position.

Incision Types for Breast Lift Surgery

• Periareolar Incision: This approach involves an incision made around the outer edge of the areola. It’s often used when there is a mild degree of sagging and minimal skin removal needed.
• Lollipop Incision: Also called a vertical incision, this method includes an incision around the areola and a second line that runs straight down to the lower breast crease. It allows for more reshaping than the periareolar technique and is commonly used when moderate lifting is required.
• Anchor Incision: For more advanced sagging or when a larger volume of excess skin must be removed, the anchor incision is typically the most effective option. It includes the same incisions as the lollipop pattern, with an additional horizontal line along the breast crease.

What to Expect During Your Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lifts are performed using general anesthesia at our accredited surgery facility. During the procedure, we make the planned incisions and carefully lift and reposition the tissue. If needed, the areolas are resized and moved to a higher position on the breast mound. After reshaping is complete, we close the incisions with sutures to support long-term structure. The procedure typically takes around two hours, depending on the complexity of your case.

Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery

Recovery timelines vary, especially if the lift is combined with augmentation or reduction. We encourage patients to begin light movement within the first 48 hours to support circulation and healing. Lifting, strenuous activity, and anything that puts stress on the chest should be avoided during the early stages. Most patients return to daily routines within two weeks, but more intense exercise should wait for about six to eight weeks to allow proper healing.

Tips for a Smoother Recovery

• Set Up Your Resting Space Ahead of Time: Before your surgery, create a comfortable space where you can rest without needing to move around much. Keep pillows, medications, water, and daily essentials within easy reach so you can limit unnecessary strain.
• Wear the Right Support Garment: We will guide you on which surgical bra or compression garment to use. Wearing the right support helps reduce swelling, provides stability during movement, and improves comfort during breast lift recovery.
• Follow Your Post-Op Instructions Closely: Take all medications as prescribed, and make sure to attend your follow-up appointments.
• Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach: Sleep on your back with your upper body slightly raised to keep pressure off the chest.

The Consultation Process and Determining Candidacy

During your consultation, we will review your medical history, past surgeries, current medications, and any ongoing health conditions. It is important to disclose whether you smoke, have had prior breast procedures, or plan to become pregnant in the future. We will also ask about your goals and what changes you hope to see after surgery.

Combining Breast Lift Surgery With Other Procedures

Breast Augmentation

When breast volume has decreased along with sagging, adding implants restores fullness in the breast. A breast lift with implants can address both shape and size in a single surgery. We’ll help determine the appropriate implant type and placement to match your natural proportions.

Mommy Makeover

A breast lift is often included as part of a mommy makeover, which involves body contouring procedures like a tummy tuck or liposuction. These procedures are combined to address physical changes that can occur after pregnancy. Performing them together can reduce overall recovery time and provide a more cohesive outcome.

Breast Reduction

Patients who have large, heavy breasts that sag may benefit from a breast reduction and lift performed at the same time. We remove excess tissue while reshaping and elevating the breast to a more comfortable and balanced position. It can also help reduce physical strain related to breast weight.

Breast Lift FAQs

How Long Will My Breast Lift Results Last?

The results of breast lift surgery are long-lasting, but no procedure can stop the natural aging process. Skin will gradually lose elasticity over time, and factors like weight changes or pregnancy can affect the outcome. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing proper support can help preserve the results for many years.

When Will I See My Full Results?

Initial results are visible once swelling begins to decrease, which is often within the first few weeks. However, the final shape may take several months to fully settle as the tissue continues to heal and adjust. Incisions will also become less noticeable during this period, and the breasts will gradually feel more natural in both shape and firmness.

Get to Know Your Surgeon

Dr. Karol Gutowski is a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Chicago area with national recognition for his work in aesthetic surgery and nonsurgical treatments. His practice focuses on the face, breast, and body. With work published in respected medical journals and features in outlets like The New York Times and Fox News, Dr. Gutowski brings both clinical expertise and broad recognition to his field. He leads a dedicated team of medical professionals who work closely with patients to plan and perform procedures with attention to detail and individual goals. Patients from throughout Chicagoland trust his experience and thoughtful approach to cosmetic care.

Enjoy Firm and Youthful Breasts With Breast Lift Surgery in Chicago, IL

A breast lift can reshape and reposition sagging tissue to better match your body’s natural proportions. At our practice, we use detailed planning and individualized surgical techniques to address your specific concerns. Patients across the Chicago area seek Dr. Karol A. Gutowski for his experience in aesthetic breast surgery and his precise, outcome-focused approach. To request a consultation, call (847) 906-1527 or contact us through our online form.