Breast Lift in Bellevue
Restore Youthful Shape with Dr. Day's Auto-Augmentation Technique
A breast lift (mastopexy) at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery restores elevation, firmness, and natural proportion to breasts that have lost their youthful contour due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or the natural aging process. Dr. Kristopher M. Day, MD, FACS — a double board-certified, Ivy League-trained plastic surgeon — tailors every breast lift to the individual patient’s anatomy, degree of ptosis, and goals. For select patients with significant breast volume loss — most commonly following major weight loss — Dr. Day may offer an auto-augmentation (Rubin-type) mastopexy that uses repositioned breast tissue to enhance projection without an implant. If you are ready to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin again, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Bellevue office.
Double Board-Certified (ABPS + ABS)
Ivy League Trained
Highly Rated Bellevue Plastic Surgeon
Proudly Serving Bellevue, Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Mercer Island, Issaquah, Renton
What Is Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
Over time, breasts naturally lose the firmness, fullness, and upward projection that once defined their shape. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight fluctuations, aging, and genetics can all cause the breast tissue and skin to stretch and sag — a condition called breast ptosis. Diet and exercise, no matter how consistent, do not reverse ptosis or restore an elevated nipple position. Breast lift surgery (mastopexy) addresses this directly: removing excess skin, reshaping the underlying tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a naturally lifted, proportionate location on the chest.
At Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery, Dr. Day offers a full range of mastopexy techniques matched to each patient’s specific degree of ptosis and tissue quality. For select patients — most commonly those who have experienced significant breast volume loss following major weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, and who present with severe breast ptosis — Dr. Day may perform an auto-augmentation (Rubin-type) mastopexy. This technique uses existing breast tissue, surgically repositioned, to create internal volume and improved upper pole projection without an implant. It is a niche, specialized approach applied to a subset of breast lift patients where the anatomy is appropriate. For patients who also desire an increase in volume, the lift can be combined with breast augmentation (augmentation-mastopexy) to achieve both goals in a single surgery.
Breast Lift Incision Techniques
Dr. Day selects the appropriate incision pattern based on the degree of ptosis and the amount of skin to be removed. The three primary approaches are:
Breast Lift Incision Techniques
Also called the inverted-T or Wise pattern, the anchor incision circles the areola, extends vertically down to the breast crease, and continues horizontally along the inframammary fold. This approach allows the greatest degree of reshaping and is ideal for patients with significant sagging or larger breast volumes.
Lollipop Incision
The lollipop (vertical) incision circles the areola and runs straight down to the breast crease — without the horizontal component. It produces excellent shaping results with slightly less visible scarring than the anchor and is suited for moderate ptosis.
Crescent Incision (Minimal Lift)
The crescent incision is a small half-moon incision along the upper border of the areola. It is reserved for patients with minor ptosis who need only a subtle elevation of the nipple position. Scarring is minimal and heals into the areola border. This approach is often used in combination with breast augmentation when only modest lift is needed.
Donut Incision (Peri-Areolar)
The donut (peri-areolar) incision circles the entire areola. It addresses more ptosis than the crescent approach but avoids the vertical or horizontal scar components of the lollipop or anchor. Scarring is confined to the areola border and tends to heal well. This technique is appropriate for mild-to-moderate ptosis where the patient wishes to limit scar extent.
Breast Lift with Augmentation (Augmentation-Mastopexy)
Many patients wish to address both sagging and volume loss in a single procedure. Dr. Day routinely performs combined augmentation-mastopexy surgery, placing an implant at the same time as the lift. This approach requires careful planning to balance implant selection with tissue tension, and Dr. Day’s advanced surgical training in precise anatomical work makes him exceptionally well-suited for this complex combination surgery.
Benefits Of a Breast Lift
Physical Benefits | Emotional & Lifestyle Benefits |
|---|---|
Elevated nipple-areola complex to a youthful, natural position | Restored confidence in clothing, swimwear, and intimate settings |
Firmer, rounder breast contour with improved upper pole fullness | Freedom from self-consciousness that develops with post-pregnancy or age-related changes |
Reduced skin laxity and asymmetry between breasts | Ability to shop in a wider range of bra and clothing styles |
Improved comfort in bras, swimwear, and athletic clothing | Feeling aligned between your inner confidence and your outward appearance |
Long-lasting results that hold with a stable body weight | Improved posture and physical comfort for many patients |
Option to increase volume simultaneously with augmentation-mastopexy | Long-term satisfaction from a highly personalized surgical plan |
Dr. Day's Auto-Augmentation Advantage
- Uses your own existing tissue — no implant required for natural-looking fullness
- Dual outcome: lift AND improved volume from a single surgery
- Minimizes implant-related risks for patients wanting a natural result
- Achieves the full, lifted upper pole that patients describe as ‘exactly what I envisioned’
"3 months post breast reduction/lift and I'm much more comfortable with my body!"
— Stephanie, Breast Reduction/Lift Patient
Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?
The best way to determine whether a breast lift is right for you is a personal consultation with Dr. Day, who will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin laxity, nipple position, and overall health to recommend the most appropriate approach. As a general guideline, ideal candidates tend to share the following characteristics:
- Ideal Candidates
- Breasts that appear lower, flatter, or longer than they once did
- Nipples that point downward or sit below the inframammary fold
- Loss of upper pole fullness from pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
- Excess skin causing skin irritation or asymmetry between breasts
- Generally healthy, non-smoking adult women with realistic expectations
- Finished with childbearing, or comfortable with the possibility of future pregnancies affecting results
- When to Consider Waiting
- Currently pregnant or breastfeeding — surgery should be postponed until at least 6 months after weaning
- Significant planned weight loss — major changes in weight can affect breast shape and lift results
- Significant sagging with desired volume increase — augmentation-mastopexy may be a better combined option
- Active infection, uncontrolled medical condition, or recent illness
- Smokers who are not able or willing to quit — smoking significantly impairs healing and increases risk
- Unrealistic expectations about outcomes — this is discussed openly and honestly at your consultation
Not Sure If You're a Candidate?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Day to discuss your goals and options.
Your Breast Lift Journey
Step 1 — Your Consultation
During your private consultation, Dr. Day will perform a comprehensive breast evaluation — assessing skin laxity, nipple position, breast volume, and symmetry. He will discuss your goals, walk you through your incision options, and explain exactly what the auto-augmentation technique means for your specific anatomy. Dr. Day takes time to answer every question and set clear, honest expectations. There is never any pressure.
Step 2 — Pre-Surgery Preparation
Approximately 2–4 weeks before surgery, you will complete pre-operative lab work and a medical clearance. You will receive detailed instructions on medications to avoid (particularly blood thinners and certain supplements), dietary guidelines, and arrangements for a trusted adult driver and caregiver for your first 48 hours.
Step 4 — Recovery Timeline
Step 3 — Day of Surgery
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2–3 hours, or longer if combined with augmentation. Dr. Day operates at fully accredited surgical facilities in the Bellevue area. You will go home the same day.
Step 5 — Follow-Up Care
Dr. Day’s team maintains close contact throughout your recovery. Follow-up appointments are scheduled at 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months post-surgery. Dr. Day is personally accessible — not just a patient coordinator — for post-operative questions.
"I had a breast lift with Dr. Day, and I cannot say enough good things about both him and his entire team. From the very first consultation, he made me feel comfortable, informed, and genuinely cared for. The surgery itself went flawlessly, and my results are even better than I imagined; natural, lifted, and perfectly proportioned. His skill, artistry, and compassion are unmatched."
— Judy Ann, Breast Lift Patient · Google Review
Day 1 (Day After Surgery):
What to Expect
Low-grade activity is encouraged — short walks are recommended. Avoid any activity that causes grimacing, straining, or sweating. Discomfort is managed with prescribed medication. Surgical bra worn at all times.
Week 1
What to Expect
Most patients return to Sedentary and desk work typically resumes during the first week after surgery. Continue frequent low-intensity activity (short walks, meals out). Swelling and bruising peak and begin to subside. Continue to avoid any grimace, grunt, strain, or sweat-inducing activity.
Weeks 2-4
What to Expect
Gradual return to exertional activity. Begin at 50% of your pre-operative baseline and increase by approximately 5% per day. Light exercise is achieved by the end of this phase.
Weeks 4-6
What to Expect
Full activity and regular exercise resume as cleared by Dr. Day at your follow-up appointment. Final bra recommendations discussed.
Month 3+
What to Expect
Scars continue to mature and fade. Final results take shape as swelling fully resolves. Most patients are thrilled with their results by 3 months.
Bra Note
What to Expect
Avoid support garments with underwire for at least 6 weeks post-surgery. Dr. Day will advise on appropriate bra support at each follow-up visit.
Dr. Day's Auto-Augmentation Breast Lift Technique
Auto-augmentation mastopexy — also known as Rubin-type mastopexy — is a specialized breast lift technique offered to a select subset of patients. It is most commonly employed for patients who have experienced significant breast volume loss and severe ptosis, most often following major weight loss. In these cases, the breast tissue itself is surgically repositioned to create internal volume and improved upper pole projection, without an implant. This approach is not performed on all breast lift patients — candidacy depends on anatomy, degree of ptosis, and tissue quality, which Dr. Day evaluates at your consultation.
What Makes It Different
- Achieves a lifted AND fuller appearance from a single surgery — without an implant
- Uses your own tissue, eliminating implant-related risks (capsular contracture, revision, etc.)
- The ‘auto-‘ refers to autologous tissue — your own biology provides the enhancement
- Results are natural in feel and movement — because they literally are your natural tissue
- For patients wanting both volume AND lift, this may be combined with augmentation for an augmentation-mastopexy
This technique reflects Dr. Day’s advanced surgical training in anatomy and tissue handling. It requires a meticulous understanding of how tissue moves, settles, and heals — skills developed across years of complex reconstructive and cosmetic surgery training.
Internal Bra Mastopexy — Longer-Lasting Support
For patients seeking a breast lift with longer-lasting structural support, Dr. Day offers Internal Bra Mastopexy — a technique that incorporates an internal “hammock” of biological or synthetic mesh to support repositioned breast tissue from within. Rather than relying entirely on the skin envelope to hold the lift over time, the internal bra provides durable support that helps maintain breast position and shape. Internal bra materials include Galaflex (resorbable synthetic mesh), Alloderm (human-derived acellular dermal matrix), and Strattice (porcine-derived biological mesh). This technique is especially beneficial for patients following significant weight loss (including post-bariatric and post-weight-loss patients), those with poor skin elasticity, patients with more severe breast ptosis, and patients seeking larger implants in combination with a lift. Dr. Day will discuss whether an internal bra is appropriate for your anatomy during your consultation.
What Results Can I Expect from a Breast Lift?
When Will I See Results?
You will notice an immediate improvement in breast position and contour right after surgery — even through post-operative swelling. Initial swelling subsides significantly within 3–4 weeks. By 3 months, you will see a clear picture of your final result as residual swelling resolves and the breast tissue settles into its new shape. Scars continue to fade for up to 12–18 months.
How Long Do Results Last?
Breast lift results are long-lasting when you maintain a stable body weight. Significant weight gain or loss, as well as future pregnancies, can affect breast shape over time — which is why Dr. Day discusses timing and candidacy thoughtfully at your consultation. Women who have completed childbearing and maintain consistent weight can expect their results to remain beautiful for many years.
Natural-Looking Results
Dr. Day’s aesthetic philosophy prioritizes natural proportion over dramatic change. His goal is a lifted, youthful breast that looks like your natural anatomy — simply restored to where it was years ago. Patients consistently describe the results as ‘exactly what I envisioned’ and ‘better than I imagined.’
"I am thrilled to share my outstanding experience with Dr. Kristopher Day. Under his care, I underwent transformative procedures including breast enhancement. From the initial consultation, he took the time to thoroughly discuss expectations and potential complications, ensuring a transparent and informed decision-making process. The results have exceeded my expectations — the impact on my physical well-being and self-confidence has been transformative."
— Jennifer P., Breast Enhancement Patient · Google Review
Breast Lift Cost in Bellevue
What Affects the Cost of a Breast Lift?
Breast lift pricing is always personalized to your anatomy and goals. The largest factor in determining your procedure cost is the time required in the operating room — our facility fee covers anesthesia, equipment, surgical staff, and post-operative recovery. Additional factors that influence the total investment include:
- Degree of ptosis and amount of tissue to be addressed
- Incision technique required (crescent, lollipop, or anchor)
- Whether the lift is combined with breast augmentation (augmentation-mastopexy)
- Facility fee and anesthesia cost (both included in your quote)
- Any additional procedures performed at the same time
What’s Included in Your Breast Lift Investment
Your surgical fee covers all of the following at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery:
- Surgeon's fee
- Facility / operating room fee
- Anesthesia (administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist)
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery medication (Exparel)
- Cosmetic surgery insurance coverage (Cosmetasure)
- High-end compression garment (Isavella)
- High-end scar ointment (Biocorneum)
- Swelling and bruising ointment (Arnica)
- Post-operative recovery and follow-up care
- Clara Recovery Supplements
Financing Options
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery accepts CareCredit (6-month financing) and Alphaeon Credit, two of the most widely used healthcare financing programs. Both allow patients to begin their journey without paying the full cost upfront.
Ask our patient care coordinator about financing during your consultation or call (425) 818-8991 for more information.
Starting from $6,000
Pricing is discussed in full detail during your consultation so there are no surprises. Call (425) 818-8991 to get started.
Why Choose Dr. Kristopher Day for Your Breast Lift Surgery?
Choosing your surgeon is the most important decision you will make. Dr. Kristopher M. Day brings a combination of credentials, technique, and personal attention that distinguishes Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery from every other practice in the Bellevue and Greater Seattle area.
Double Board-Certified — ABPS & ABS
Double board certification in plastic surgery and general surgery represents the highest standard of surgical training and ongoing accountability. Dr. Day has met rigorous peer-reviewed standards to earn and maintain both certifications.
Ivy League Trained — Advanced Surgical Precision
Dr. Day’s Ivy League training provided an advanced foundation in anatomy, tissue handling, and surgical precision. This translates directly to breast lift patients — particularly in complex cases involving augmentation-mastopexy or significant asymmetry — where precise tissue management determines the quality of the outcome.
Highly Rated by Our Patients
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is one of the highest-rated plastic surgery practices in Bellevue. Patients consistently praise Dr. Day’s attentiveness, clear communication, natural results, and compassionate care.
Boutique Practice — You See Dr. Day, Not a PA
At Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery, Dr. Day personally performs your consultation, your surgery, and your post-operative follow-up. You are never handed off to a physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner. This level of personal attention is rare in plastic surgery and is a defining feature of care at this practice.
Surgical Facilities
Swedish Medical Center · Carillon Point Surgery Center · Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Phone: (425) 818-8991 · Address: 1260 116th Avenue NE, Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98004
Conveniently Located for Eastside Families
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is centrally located in downtown Bellevue, making Dr. Day’s fellowship-trained expertise accessible to families throughout Bellevue and the greater Eastside — without the stress of navigating Seattle traffic. Our patients enjoy a private, boutique surgical experience with on-site validated parking, just minutes from the communities they call home.
Seattle
~15 minutes
World-class plastic surgery results without the downtown Seattle parking hassle. A quick drive across SR-520 or I-90 to our private Bellevue office.
Kirkland
~10 minutes
Just minutes from downtown Kirkland and the Juanita waterfront via I-405 or surface streets.
Redmond
~10 minutes
Convenient for the Redmond tech community via SR-520 or surface streets.
Mercer Island
~10 minutes
A quick drive across I-90. Our discreet, private environment is ideal for discerning Mercer Island residents.
Issaquah
~10 minutes
Convenient for Issaquah Highlands and Gilman Village area families via I-90.
Renton
~5 minutes
Easy access from Renton and the Landing via I-405 North. Boutique care and personalized attention just minutes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a breast lift and breast augmentation?
Will I need implants to get a full result from my breast lift?
Not necessarily. Most breast lifts do not require an implant — they achieve lift by removing excess skin and repositioning tissue. For select patients with significant volume loss and severe ptosis, Dr. Day may offer an auto-augmentation (Rubin-type) mastopexy, which uses repositioned breast tissue to improve projection without an implant. Candidacy for this technique depends on your anatomy. If you desire increased volume, combining a lift with augmentation (augmentation-mastopexy) is also an option that Dr. Day performs routinely.
How long is recovery from a breast lift?
Most patients return to sedentary desk work within the first week. Low-grade activity such as walking is encouraged starting the day after surgery. Light exercise resumes gradually between weeks 2 and 4, beginning at about 50% of your pre-operative baseline and increasing from there. Full exercise is typically cleared at the 4–6 week follow-up appointment, depending on your individual recovery. Dr. Day will monitor your progress closely and provide clearance for each activity milestone.
How noticeable are breast lift scars?
All breast lift approaches leave some scarring, as incisions are required to remove skin and reposition tissue. The extent depends on the incision technique: crescent (small scar at upper areola border), donut/peri-areolar (scar around the full areola), lollipop (scar around areola + vertical line), or anchor (scar around areola, vertical, and along breast crease). Dr. Day’s meticulous closure technique minimizes scar width, and scars typically fade significantly over 12–18 months. Most scars are easily concealed by a bra or swimsuit.
How much does a breast lift cost in Bellevue?
Breast lift pricing at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery starts from $6,000, depending on the complexity of your case, the incision technique selected, and whether the procedure is combined with augmentation. Your total quote — including surgeon fee, anesthesia, and facility — is provided at your consultation. Financing is available through CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit. Call (425) 818-8991 to schedule.
Can I combine a breast lift with a tummy tuck or mommy makeover?
Yes. Dr. Day regularly performs combined procedures, and a breast lift is one of the most common components of a full mommy makeover (breast lift or augmentation + tummy tuck + liposuction). Combining procedures means one surgery, one recovery, and results that are visually cohesive. The appropriate combination — and whether your health and anatomy support it — is determined at your consultation.
Should I wait until I'm done having children to get a breast lift?
This is a personal decision that Dr. Day will discuss with you openly. Future pregnancies and breastfeeding can affect breast shape and potentially alter the results of your lift. If you plan to have more children in the near future, you may wish to wait. However, if you have young children but are uncertain about future pregnancies, Dr. Day will help you weigh the trade-offs so you can make an informed decision that is right for your life.
What is the auto-augmentation breast lift technique?
Auto-augmentation (Rubin-type) mastopexy is a specialized breast lift technique in which existing breast tissue is surgically repositioned to create internal volume and improved upper pole projection — without adding an implant. It is offered to a select subset of patients, most commonly those with significant breast volume loss and severe ptosis following major weight loss. The ‘auto-’ refers to autologous tissue: your own biology provides the enhancement. Candidacy depends on your anatomy and degree of ptosis, which Dr. Day evaluates during your consultation.
How long do breast lift results last?
Results are long-lasting when you maintain a stable body weight. Significant weight fluctuations and future pregnancies can affect breast shape over time. Gravity and aging continue naturally, but many patients enjoy beautiful results for many years after their surgery. Dr. Day will frame expectations honestly during your consultation so you understand what to expect at each stage.
How do I know if I need a lift, augmentation, or both?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and the answer always depends on your specific anatomy. Generally: if you have sagging but are satisfied with your volume, a lift alone may be ideal. If you want volume without significant sagging, augmentation alone may be appropriate. If you have both sagging and volume loss, a combined augmentation-mastopexy is often the most transformative option. Dr. Day evaluates all of this at your consultation and recommends the path that will achieve your specific goals.
Schedule Your Breast Lift Consultation
You deserve to feel confident in your body again. Dr. Day and the Pacific Sound team create personalized transformation plans tailored to your unique goals.