A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to restore a youthful contour to the breasts by lifting sagging tissue and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a more aesthetically pleasing position. Whether your breast shape has changed due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, aging, or gravity, a breast lift can help you reclaim the confidence that comes with a rejuvenated silhouette. At our Franklin, Tennessee practice, Dr. Natasha Luckey specializes in personalized breast lift surgery that delivers natural-looking results tailored to your unique body and aesthetic goals.
Breast sagging, or ptosis, is a common concern affecting women of all ages. According to research published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), breast lift procedures remain among the most requested cosmetic surgeries, with patients seeking both aesthetic enhancement and improved self-confidence. Dr. Luckey combines surgical precision with an artistic eye to ensure your results look naturally beautiful, not overdone.
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the breast. Unlike breast augmentation, which adds volume through implants, a breast lift works with your existing breast tissue to create a lifted, more youthful appearance. The procedure can be performed alone or combined with breast augmentation or breast reduction, depending on your goals.1
During a breast lift, Dr. Luckey makes carefully planned incisions based on the degree of sagging and your desired outcome. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher on the breast mound, excess skin is removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped and tightened. This creates a perkier profile with improved projection and a more youthful contour.
The procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and whether it is combined with other procedures. Most patients can return home the same day under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, as determined during your consultation.
Dr. Natasha Luckey is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the gold standard in plastic surgery certification. She earned her medical degree from the University of South Florida College of Medicine in 2007 and completed a rigorous integrated plastic surgery residency at the University of Southern Illinois Affiliated Hospitals from 2007 to 2012, where she received comprehensive training in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast.
Before pursuing medicine, Dr. Luckey worked as a registered nurse, giving her a deep understanding of patient care, compassion, and the importance of clear communication throughout the surgical journey. This unique background informs her patient-centered approach to every consultation and procedure.
Dr. Luckey has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor that requires peer nomination and rigorous vetting by the medical community. This recognition reflects her expertise, patient care quality, and commitment to surgical excellence.
Dr. Luckey holds surgical privileges at leading Nashville-area medical centers, ensuring access to state-of-the-art surgical facilities and comprehensive patient care:
These hospital affiliations require ongoing credentialing, background verification, and compliance with rigorous safety and quality standards.
With over 15 years of medical experience, Dr. Luckey specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive breast and body surgery. Her expertise includes:
Dr. Luckey is passionate about helping women feel confident in their bodies. She takes time during your consultation to understand your aesthetic goals, assess your anatomy, and recommend the approach that will deliver the most natural-looking, harmonious results. Her philosophy centers on enhancing your natural beauty rather than creating an artificial appearance.
The type of breast lift recommended depends on the degree of sagging, your breast size, and your aesthetic goals. Dr. Luckey offers several incision options, each designed to minimize visible scarring while achieving optimal results.
The crescent lift involves a small incision along the upper edge of the areola. This technique is ideal for patients with minimal sagging and is often combined with breast augmentation. It results in minimal scarring and is suitable for those seeking subtle enhancement.
The periareolar lift uses an incision around the entire areola, allowing Dr. Luckey to remove excess skin and reshape the breast tissue. This technique works well for mild to moderate sagging and provides good control over the final shape. Scarring is typically well-hidden along the areola border.
The vertical lift involves an incision around the areola and a vertical line extending downward to the breast crease. This technique addresses moderate sagging and allows for more significant reshaping. While scarring is slightly more visible than with smaller incisions, it typically fades significantly over time.
The anchor lift, also called the Wise pattern, uses incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. This comprehensive approach is ideal for significant sagging and provides maximum control over breast shape and position. Though scarring is more extensive, it is typically well-hidden within natural breast contours and clothing.
During your consultation, Dr. Luckey will assess your anatomy and recommend the technique that will deliver the best results with the most appropriate scarring trade-off for your situation.
A breast lift offers numerous physical and emotional benefits:
Many patients report that a breast lift has a profound impact on their quality of life, allowing them to feel more comfortable in their own skin and more confident in social and professional settings.
An ideal candidate for breast lift surgery typically meets the following criteria:
During your consultation with Dr. Luckey, she will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine whether a breast lift is the right procedure for you. If you are planning future pregnancies, she can discuss how this may affect your results and help you plan accordingly.
Proper preparation is essential for optimal surgical outcomes and a smooth recovery. Dr. Luckey provides detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your specific situation. General preparation guidelines include:
Schedule a comprehensive physical examination with your primary care physician to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery. Inform Dr. Luckey of any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as some may need to be adjusted before surgery.
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for at least two weeks before surgery, as these can increase bleeding risk. Acetaminophen is typically acceptable for pain relief. Discuss all medications with Dr. Luckey during your pre-operative consultation.
If you smoke, quit at least two weeks before surgery and remain smoke-free for at least two weeks after surgery. Smoking impairs blood flow and can compromise healing and increase complication risk.
Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. You will not be able to drive while taking pain medication or recovering from anesthesia.
Follow all fasting instructions provided by Dr. Luckey’s office. Typically, you will be asked to avoid food and drink for 6 to 8 hours before surgery.
Shower or bathe the night before surgery using an antimicrobial soap as directed. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, or makeup on the day of surgery.
Plan to take at least one week off work for initial recovery. If your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, plan for 4 to 6 weeks off.
Understanding the surgical process can help ease any anxiety and set realistic expectations for your results.
Your surgery will be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the complexity of your procedure and your preferences. Dr. Luckey will discuss anesthesia options during your consultation.
Based on the lift technique selected, Dr. Luckey will make carefully planned incisions. She uses surgical markers to precisely map incision placement before making any cuts, ensuring symmetry and optimal results.
Once incisions are made, Dr. Luckey removes excess skin and reshapes the underlying breast tissue. She carefully repositions the nipple-areola complex to a higher, more youthful position on the breast mound.
After reshaping is complete, Dr. Luckey closes the incisions with absorbable sutures and applies surgical tape or skin adhesive. Incisions are typically closed in layers to optimize healing and minimize scarring.
Your breasts are wrapped in a surgical bra or compression garment to support the newly shaped tissue and minimize swelling during initial healing.
Recovery from a breast lift varies by individual, but most patients follow a similar timeline:
Expect swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort. Pain is typically well-controlled with prescribed pain medication. Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to minimize swelling. Wear your surgical bra continuously during this period of downtime.
Most patients can return to light activities and desk work. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that elevate your heart rate. Continue wearing your surgical bra. Swelling and bruising gradually begin to improve.
You can gradually increase activity levels. Light exercise such as walking is encouraged. Avoid heavy lifting (anything over 5 pounds) and high-impact activities. Continue wearing your surgical bra during the day.
Most patients can resume normal exercise, including cardio and strength training, as long as they avoid direct pressure on the breasts. Swelling continues to decrease, and you will begin to see your final results taking shape.
Most restrictions are lifted, and you can resume all normal activities. Residual swelling may persist for several months, but your breasts will continue to settle into their final position.
Final results become apparent as all swelling resolves and scars begin to fade. Scars typically continue to improve for up to one year after surgery.
While some scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, Dr. Luckey employs several techniques to minimize visible scarring:
Most patients find that scars become increasingly inconspicuous over time and are easily hidden by clothing or swimwear. During your consultation, Dr. Luckey can show you examples of how scars typically appear at various stages of healing.
As with any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries potential risks. Dr. Luckey takes every precaution to minimize these risks through meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive post-operative care. Potential complications may include:
During your consultation, Dr. Luckey will discuss these risks in detail and answer any questions you have. She will also explain the steps she takes to minimize complication risk and ensure optimal outcomes.
Many patients choose to combine a breast lift with other cosmetic procedures to achieve comprehensive body rejuvenation. Common combinations include:
Adding breast implants during a breast lift allows you to increase breast volume while achieving a lifted position. This combination is ideal for patients who want both more projection and a lifted appearance.
Combining a lift with reduction is beneficial for patients with large, heavy breasts who want to reduce size while achieving a more youthful position and improved symmetry.
A mommy makeover typically combines breast lift with tummy tuck and liposuction to address multiple areas affected by pregnancy and weight changes. This comprehensive approach allows for coordinated body contouring.
Combining procedures can be more efficient and cost-effective than staging separate surgeries. Dr. Luckey will discuss combination options during your consultation and help you prioritize your aesthetic goals.
Breast lift results are long-lasting, with most patients enjoying their improved breast contour for 10 to 15 years or longer. However, it is important to understand that breasts will continue to age and may gradually descend over time due to gravity, aging, and natural changes in skin elasticity.3
Factors that can affect the longevity of your results include:
While a breast lift cannot stop the aging process, it does reset your breasts to a more youthful position. Many patients are thrilled with their results for many years and find that even if some descent occurs over time, their breasts remain significantly improved compared to their pre-operative appearance.
The cost of breast lift surgery varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the incision technique used, whether it is combined with other procedures, and facility fees. During your consultation, Dr. Luckey’s team will provide a detailed cost estimate.
Breast lift surgery is typically considered an elective cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, financing options are often available to make surgery more accessible. Dr. Luckey’s office can discuss payment plans and financing options during your consultation.
Contact Dr. Luckey’s office for current pricing and financing options.
In most cases, yes. A breast lift does not typically affect your ability to breastfeed, as the procedure works with existing breast tissue rather than removing it entirely. However, if nipple sensation is affected, milk production may be impacted in rare cases. Discuss breastfeeding plans with Dr. Luckey during your consultation.
Some scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure. However, Dr. Luckey places incisions strategically along natural breast contours and the areola border to minimize visibility. Scars typically fade significantly over 12 to 18 months and are easily hidden by clothing or swimwear.
Breast lift results are long-lasting, typically enduring 10 to 15 years or longer. However, breasts will continue to age naturally due to gravity and skin elasticity changes. Many patients enjoy their improved appearance for many years.
A breast lift raises and reshapes existing breast tissue without adding volume. Breast augmentation adds volume through implants but does not address sagging. Many patients benefit from combining both procedures.
Light exercise such as walking can typically resume within 2 to 4 weeks. High-impact exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Dr. Luckey will provide specific guidelines based on your individual recovery.
Some temporary changes in nipple sensation are common after breast lift surgery. Most sensation returns within a few weeks to months. Permanent sensation changes are rare but possible.
An ideal candidate is a healthy woman with realistic expectations who is experiencing breast sagging due to aging, pregnancy, weight loss, or gravity. During your consultation, Dr. Luckey will evaluate your anatomy and goals to determine if a breast lift is right for you.
Dr. Natasha Luckey offers personalized breast lift surgery at her practice in Franklin, Tennessee, serving patients throughout Williamson County and the greater Nashville area. Dr. Luckey is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She combines surgical expertise with a patient-centered approach to deliver natural-looking results that enhance your confidence and quality of life. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your breast lift goals.
At Dr. Natasha Luckey’s practice, patient satisfaction and natural-looking results are our top priorities. Our patients consistently praise Dr. Luckey’s surgical expertise, compassionate care, and attention to detail throughout their breast lift journey. Below are testimonials from real patients who have experienced the transformative benefits of breast lift surgery with Dr. Luckey.
“I highly recommend Dr. Luckey. Her and her staff’s expertise, kindness and professionalism are top notch. I felt comfortable and listened to, but most of all the results of my surgery were better than I expected.” T.W. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I’ve worked with plenty of doctors over the years, but Dr. Luckey stands out—by a long shot. She carries herself with calm confidence, listens without rushing, and truly understands what her patients need—sometimes before you even say it. That kind of intuition can’t be taught.” H.S. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Dr. Luckey and her team. From start to finish, my journey was nothing short of exceptional. I recently underwent a breast augmentation with a lift and abdominal liposuction, and I am beyond thrilled with my results.” B.C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I recently had a surgical procedure with Dr. Luckey and can’t say enough wonderful things. From my consultation through post op, it was an amazing experience. Several of my friends had the same procedure and didn’t have the professional outcome with their results I did. She has a spectacular bedside manner and can really relate to your needs from a female perspective. I will miss seeing your smiling face. Thank you Dr. Luckey!!!” J.P. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you are considering a breast lift and would like to learn more about how this procedure can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Natasha Luckey. During your visit, Dr. Luckey will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
To schedule your consultation, contact our Franklin office at (615) 846-3640 or visit ourwebsite. We look forward to helping you feel confident and beautiful in your own skin.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Lift. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift. Accessed December 17, 2025.
2American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for breast lift surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/candidates. Accessed December 17, 2025.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What results should I expect after my breast lift surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/results. Accessed December 17, 2025.
