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Breast Lift in Irvine, California

When pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or the passage of time leave your breasts looking deflated or sagging, a breast lift can restore the youthful position, shape, and firmness that help you feel confident in every outfit. Many women choose this popular procedure to reduce enlarged areolas, correct asymmetry, and reclaim body confidence after life changes. A breast lift not only enhances appearance but can also renew self-esteem and comfort in social, professional, and intimate settings.
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About Breast Lift

Procedure Quick Facts:

  • Duration of Procedure:
2-3 hours
  • Anesthesia:
General anesthesia
  • Recovery:
Back to light activity in a few days; full exercise in 4-6 weeks, once cleared
  • Results Duration:
Long-lasting; implants may need replacement after 10-15 years

What is Breast Lift?

A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgery that re-creates youthful breast shape by removing excess skin, tightening internal tissue, and elevating the nipple-areola complex to a higher, more natural position. During the procedure, stretched areolas may be reduced, and breast tissue is reshaped for a rounder, firmer contour. The result is a symmetric, perkier appearance that looks natural both in and out of clothing.

Why Undergo Breast Lift?

If you are concerned about sagging, flattened, or asymmetric breasts, please get in touch with South Coast Plastic Surgery to set up a consultation. Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized mastopexy plan that delivers the youthful curve and confidence you envision. Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing perky, uplifted breasts that complement your figure—it can transform your daily life.
  • Restore youthful breast position
    A lift repositions the breasts higher on the chest wall, reversing droop and giving a naturally younger silhouette that looks great in swimsuits and fitted tops.
  • Improve nipple and areola placement
    Downward-pointing nipples or enlarged areolas are corrected, bringing the nipple-areola complex to an aesthetically ideal size and location for balanced proportions.
  • Enhance breast shape and firmness
    By removing excess skin and tightening tissue, mastopexy restores roundness and firmness, reducing the "flattened" look common after pregnancy or weight loss.
  • Correct breast asymmetry
    If one breast sits lower or appears flatter than the other, a lift can create improved symmetry, leading to more balanced contours in and out of clothing.
  • Boost body confidence
    Many patients report renewed self-esteem and comfort wearing form-fitting outfits, lingerie, and swimwear after surgery, positively impacting social and intimate moments.
  • Long-lasting, natural-looking results
    While aging continues, carefully executed mastopexy provides enduring improvement that ages gracefully with you.

Breast Lift Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

Key Benefits of Breast Lift in Irvine, California

Repositions sagging breasts to a youthful height
Reduces enlarged areolas and improves nipple projection
Creates firmer, rounder breast contours without implants
Delivers immediate aesthetic enhancement and confidence

Types of Breast Lift

The right type of breast lift depends on how much sagging is present and whether you want to maintain your current breast size or increase volume. In general, breast lift procedures fall into two main categories: breast lift without implants and breast lift with implants. Each serves a different goal.

During your consultation, Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein will evaluate your anatomy and desires to recommend the technique that will best achieve your vision.

Breast Lift Without Implants (Mastopexy)

Best for:
Women who are satisfied with their current breast size but want a firmer, more lifted appearance.

This option is often chosen by patients who feel their breasts look deflated, droopy, or lower on the chest, but still have enough natural volume.

What it does:
A breast lift without implants reshapes the breast using your existing tissue. During surgery, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is tightened, and the nipples are repositioned to a higher, more natural location. The breast mound is reshaped to improve contour and projection.

Because no implants are added, the focus is entirely on improving shape, position, and firmness, not size.

Outcome:

  • Breasts appear higher, perkier, and more youthful
  • Nipple position is improved
  • Clothing and bras often fit better

Some patients notice a slight reduction in breast size, often up to about one cup size. This happens because loose skin is removed and the breast is reshaped rather than expanded. Upper-breast fullness may also be more subtle compared to implant-based procedures.

Breast Lift With Implants (Augmentation-Mastopexy)

Best for:
Women who want both lifted breasts and increased volume, or who have lost fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.

This option is commonly chosen by patients who feel their breasts are both sagging and smaller than they’d like.

What it does:
A breast lift with implants combines two procedures into one surgery:

  • A lift, which removes excess skin and repositions the breast and nipples
  • Breast augmentation, which adds volume using saline or silicone implants

By addressing both sagging and volume loss at the same time, this approach can restore upper-breast fullness, improve cleavage, and create a more balanced overall shape.

Outcome:

  • More dramatic reshaping and lift
  • Increased breast size and projection
  • Improved upper-pole fullness

Because this is a combined procedure, it is more complex than a lift or augmentation alone and requires careful planning to balance shape, size, and tissue safety.

Adds a horizontal incision along the breast fold to the lollipop pattern, making it ideal for significant sagging, excess skin, or large areolas requiring maximum reshaping.

A small half-moon incision at the upper areola corrects very minor sagging and is often combined with augmentation for subtle lift and volume.

Combines breast implants with a lift to increase volume and improve position simultaneously, perfect for deflated breasts after pregnancy or weight loss.

Uses your own lower breast tissue to add upper-pole fullness while lifting, avoiding implants and maintaining a fully natural breast.

Not sure which option is right for you?

Meet your Breast Lift surgeons

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, our acclaimed plastic surgeons, Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein, will perform your breast procedure. Their artistry and skill in this delicate procedure have led to a reputation for outstanding outcomes. You can expect your procedure to be 100% customized, with a focus on achieving a beautifully balanced figure and natural-looking results.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Breast Lift in Irvine, California?

Beauty Inside-Out

We treat beyond the visible, caring for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every aesthetic treatment is provided with warm and exceptional care to elevate your well-being and confidence.

Unmatched Predictability

Visualize your potential results with cutting-edge Crisalix 3D imaging, ensuring clarity and confidence from the start of your cosmetic journey. Our transparent planning process covers every detail, from realistic expectations to comprehensive pricing.

Expert Healing

Your personalized care plan doesn't end when you leave the operating room. Adoreal's automated recovery prompts guide you through a personalized healing journey, including 24/7 access to your surgical team to address questions or concerns. Track your aesthetic recovery progress in real-time, receive important reminders, and experience peace of mind knowing that expert support is always available.

Protected Investment

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your aesthetic outcomes long after your final follow-up. Your care includes up to 5 years of medical complication protection, a 2-year satisfaction guarantee for minor adjustments, and lifetime implant monitoring for eligible cases. Combined with ongoing access to your complete medical records and continued support from our team, you can trust that your journey to confidence is backed by expertise, technology, and a genuine commitment to your long-term well-being.

A Customized Approach to Breast Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, every breast lift is planned around your anatomy and goals. Breast sagging can look different from one person to another. Skin quality, breast volume, nipple position, and overall proportions all play a role in determining the right surgical approach. That’s why we take time to design a plan that fits your body, your lifestyle, and how you want to feel in your clothes.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline. During your visit, we'll use advanced 3D imaging to show you a realistic preview of your potential results, giving you confidence and clarity in your decision. 

What to Expect During Your Breast Lift Consultation

Your consultation is a private, one-on-one conversation focused on understanding your concerns and evaluating whether a breast lift is the right solution for you.

When you meet with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein, you’ll discuss:

  • What changes you want to see in breast shape and position
  • The degree of sagging and how it affects nipple placement
  • Whether your current breast volume is sufficient or if additional volume should be discussed
  • Incision patterns required to achieve the desired lift
  • Expected recovery timeline and activity limitations
  • Budget considerations and available financing options

Your surgeon will also carefully assess factors such as skin elasticity, breast tissue quality, chest wall anatomy, and nipple position. Together, you’ll review which type of breast lift—or combination approach, if needed—can safely and realistically help you achieve a more lifted, balanced appearance.

Schedule your Consultation

See Your Future Self

With Crisalix 3D visualization, preview your potential aesthetic outcomes from home. This advanced technology shows personalized results, helping you feel confident and informed about your path forward.

Am I a good candidate for Breast Lift?

Women who would like to raise their breasts and achieve a more perky, youthful breast appearance are likely candidates for a breast lift. Ideal candidates should meet the following requirements:

Physically healthy
Stable, maintainable weight
Non-smoker
Sagging or pendulous breasts
Flat or elongated breast shape
Nipples that point downward or sit below the crease
Stretched or enlarged areolas
Breast asymmetry
Upper pole emptiness after pregnancy or weight loss

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Goals

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Your Concerns

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Timeline & Preference

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Your Breast Lift Journey and Recovery

From your first consultation to your final results, you’re guided through every stage of your Breast Lift journey with personalized support, automated instructions, and 24/7 access to your care team. This is your journey, we just make it easier. 

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you’d like to see and whether a breast lift is the right solution for your concerns.

During your consultation, your surgeon will:

  • Discuss your goals for breast shape and position
  • Evaluate breast volume, skin elasticity, and nipple position
  • Review whether a lift alone is appropriate or if additional procedures should be considered
  • Explain incision options and expected scarring patterns
  • Walk through recovery expectations and activity restrictions

Together, you’ll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.

The Breast Lift Procedure

Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, though some patients may be candidates for other anesthesia options based on their medical history and surgical plan. You will not feel pain during the procedure.

Incisions are made according to the degree of lift needed and are planned carefully to achieve effective reshaping while minimizing visible scarring. Common incision patterns may involve the areola, a vertical line down to the breast crease, and/or the crease itself.

During the procedure:

  • Excess skin is removed
  • Breast tissue is reshaped to improve firmness and contour
  • Nipples are repositioned to a higher, more youthful location
  • Areola size may be adjusted when appropriate

The breasts are lifted to rest higher on the chest wall, and incisions are closed with care to support proper healing.

Breast Lift Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.

Immediately after surgery
You’ll return home the same day. Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common during the first few days and are typically managed with medication and rest.

First few days

  • Swelling and soreness gradually improve
  • You’ll begin light walking and daily activities
  • A front-closing, wire-free supportive bra is worn continuously, except when bathing

Weeks 1–2

  • Many patients feel comfortable returning to desk work
  • Light activity can be resumed
  • Swelling continues to decrease

Weeks 3–4

  • Gradual return to exercise
  • Unrestricted physical activity is often allowed around week four, once cleared by your surgeon

You’ll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Your Breast Lift Results

Breast lift results are visible right away, though your breasts will continue to change as swelling resolves and tissues settle.

  • Early results show improved shape and elevation
  • Over the following weeks, the breasts soften and appear more natural
  • Final results continue to refine over several months

With proper care and stable weight, breast lift results can be long-lasting, helping restore a more youthful breast position and contour.

You can expect to resume light activities within a few days and return to work within 1-2 weeks. Most patients follow this timeline:

Complete healing takes 3-6 months. During this time:
  • Month 2 - 3

  • Month 3 - 6:

  • Long Term

What kind of implants do we offer?

Plastic surgeons in the U.S. now have four main choices of manufacturers of silicone and saline breast implants with FDA approval. At South Coast Plastic Surgery we offer: Motiva, Sientra, Allergan, and Mentor, providing you with the broadest range of high-quality options to achieve your ideal outcome.

Motiva Silicone Gel Implants

Motiva® Round and Ergonomix® implants are now FDA-approved for augmentation (primary and revision). These implants feature the patented SmoothSilk® surface designed to enhance biocompatibility and lower inflammation. They also include an ergonomic gel shell that helps the implant adapt to body position. Clinical trial data show very low complication rates: e.g., less than 1% for capsular contracture or rupture.

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, we now recommend Motiva as our first line option for patients seeking advanced silicone gel implants with the latest safety and ergonomic design.

Sientra Silicone Gel Implants

Sientra silicone gel breast implants are available only to board-certified plastic surgeons and are not available to MD’s who have not gone through the rigorous training to achieve board-certification. Sientra implants are produced with the latest in silicone gel technology, creating an implant that is formable.

These implants have the advantage of retaining their shape whether you are standing up or lying down, which prevents them from rippling or folding in their shells. Sientra implants have an extremely low rupture rate, which reduces the risk of the need for a secondary surgery due to a ruptured implant.

Mentor Cohesive Gel Implants

We also offer Mentor cohesive gel implants, known for their natural feel and proven safety record. Mentor implants provide excellent shape retention and are a popular choice among patients seeking balanced, natural-looking results.

Allergan Semi-Solid Implants

Allergan semi-solid implants offer another premium option, providing a soft, natural feel with excellent durability. These implants are designed to maintain their shape while moving naturally with your body.

Is saline or silicone best?

For women younger than 22 years of age, saline implants are the only commercially available option for cosmetic breast augmentation. Some women opt for saline because they are more comfortable with the idea of an implant made with a saltwater solution. Saline implants are not filled until after insertion, so the incisions can be slightly smaller than those needed when placing silicone implants.

What’s right for you?

The majority of women prefer silicone implants as they tend to produce a more natural look and feel. Today’s silicone gel is semi-firm to the touch yet is still malleable and pliant, and closely mimics the bounce and feel of natural breast tissue.

What are anatomical breast implants?

In breast augmentation, the shape of the implant plays a key role in determining your final breast appearance.

Teardrop-Shaped Implants

Anatomical implants are shaped like a natural breast, with more volume concentrated at the bottom and tapering off toward the top. These teardrop-shaped implants are more popular for women with little natural breast tissue in performing breast reconstruction surgery. Anatomical implants are also the most common implant shape of choice for older women, as the graduated shape more closely resembles the natural appearance of a breast at that stage of life.

What are round breast implants?

Round Breast Implants

Round implants provide volume throughout the breast, including the upper portion of the breast. While some women seek this aesthetic, as it gives a full, high look, others believe that this upper volume makes the implants look too unnatural.

During your consultation, Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein will help you determine which implant shape best suits your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Breast Lift Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect breast lift results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Natural-looking breast lift results come from careful planning and a clear understanding of what you want to change and what you want to preserve. For some women, a lift is about reshaping and elevating their natural breast tissue. For others, it may also involve restoring lost volume while maintaining a soft, balanced appearance.

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, achieving natural breast lift results starts with evaluating your anatomy and goals together. Factors such as skin quality, existing breast volume, nipple position, and chest proportions all influence how the breasts are reshaped and where they rest on the chest wall. When additional fullness is desired, this is discussed thoughtfully so the final result remains proportional and natural-looking.

When planned appropriately, a breast lift can create a firmer, more youthful contour—whether performed on its own or combined with volume enhancement.

Where are the incisions in a breast lift?

The type of incision used will vary, depending on how much the breasts are sagging. The incisions may be:

  • Around the nipple structure (areolae)
  • From the bottom of the areola down to the breast crease
  • Along the breast crease

Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Scarring is an expected part of any breast lift because skin must be removed to raise and reshape the breast. The extent of scarring depends on the degree of sagging and the incision pattern required to achieve safe, effective lifting.

Scar Healing Timeline

As your body heals, scars will change gradually over time:

  • Weeks 1–2: Scars may appear red and slightly raised
  • Months 1–3: Scars typically soften and begin to flatten
  • Around 6 months: Noticeable fading often occurs
  • 1–2 years: Scars may continue to lighten and become less noticeable

Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Breast lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.

Potential risks may include:

  • Bleeding or fluid buildup
  • Infection
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation
  • Scarring
  • Asymmetry

Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe breast lift experience include:

  • Thorough pre-operative evaluation
  • Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
  • Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
  • Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care

By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their breast lift results.

How much does Breast Lift cost in Irvine, CA?

Book your consultation

Starting at $13,400 w/o implants or $18,200 with implants.


This preliminary pricing provides a baseline for your planning. Your final investment may vary based on your anatomy, the complexity of your procedure, implant type and size selection (if applicable), and any additional techniques required to achieve your aesthetic goals.

During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized quote based on your goals and anatomy.

Financing options available through:

Trusted by Our Community

4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Lift

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

Where are the incisions placed during a breast lift?
Incision placement depends on the degree of sagging and can be around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and/or along the breast fold. Your surgeon will choose the pattern that achieves the lift you need with the least visible scarring.
Will a breast lift change my cup size?
A lift reshapes and repositions existing tissue but does not significantly change breast volume. If more fullness is desired, implants can be added.
How long does the breast lift surgery take?
Most mastopexy procedures take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on complexity and whether additional procedures like augmentation are performed.
Can I combine a breast lift with implants?
Yes. Combining a lift with implants (augmentation-mastopexy) addresses both sagging and loss of volume in a single surgery. Your surgeon will discuss sizing, implant type, and incision options during consultation.

Recovery & Results

When can I return to work after a breast lift?
Most patients return to desk work within 5-7 days, provided they avoid heavy lifting and follow post-operative instructions.
Is the recovery painful?
Discomfort is generally mild to moderate and well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients transition to non-narcotic pain relief within a few days.
How soon will I see my final results?
You’ll notice an immediate lift, but final shape and scar maturation take 3-6 months as swelling subsides and tissues settle.
Will I need to wear a special bra?
Yes, you’ll wear a front-closing, wire-free support bra day and night for about four weeks to minimize swelling and support healing tissues.
How long do breast lift results last?

Results are long-lasting, especially when weight is stable and supportive bras are worn. Natural aging will continue, but breasts should always look better than if no surgery had been performed.

Safety & Risks

Is a breast lift safe?
When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited facility, mastopexy is considered very safe with a low complication rate.
Will I lose nipple sensation?
Temporary changes in sensation are common, but most patients regain normal feeling within months. Permanent loss is uncommon.
Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?
Many women retain the ability to breastfeed, but it cannot be guaranteed. If future breastfeeding is a priority, discuss incision choices with your surgeon.

Cost & Insurance

Significant weight fluctuations can affect results by stretching skin or changing breast volume, so maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your outcome.
Is a breast lift covered by insurance?
A breast lift is considered cosmetic and typically not covered by insurance; however, we offer financing options to make treatment affordable.
What factors influence the cost of my breast lift?
Cost varies based on surgical complexity, whether implants are added, anesthesia fees, and facility time. You’ll receive a detailed quote during consultation.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Care

Can exercise cause my breasts to sag again?
Normal exercise is encouraged once healed. Wearing a supportive sports bra helps protect results during high-impact activities.
How do I care for my scars long-term?
Follow our scar-care program, including silicone therapy, sun protection, and massage, to help scars mature into fine, light lines.
Will I need future surgeries to maintain my results?

Most patients enjoy long-term improvements without additional surgery, though some choose revision decades later due to natural aging, weight changes or implant replacement.

What happens if I gain or lose weight after surgery?

Results are long-lasting, especially when weight is stable and supportive bras are worn. Natural aging will continue, but breasts should always look better than if no surgery had been performed.

Still have questions?

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Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein to discuss your goals and create a personalized surgical plan. At South Coast Plastic Surgery, you’re seen, valued, and celebrated.