Breast Lift Success: 37-Year-Old’s Asymmetry Solution

Breast Lift Success Story Series by Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD | Case Study #3372

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This is part of our series featuring real patient transformations at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery. Each case study provides an in-depth look at actual procedures, recovery experiences, and results from Houston patients who’ve undergone breast lift surgery with Dr. Sam M. Sukkar.

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Three months. That’s all it took for Abigail* to look at her reflection and recognize herself again, not the tired version, but the confident woman she’d been before gravity and asymmetry took their toll.

At 37, Abigail had noticed what many women eventually face: her breasts had changed. Not in size, she’d always been a D cup, but in shape and position. One breast sat noticeably lower than the other. The ptosis (drooping) had become impossible to hide, even with the most supportive bras. While researching breast lift options in Houston, she kept getting distracted by stunning tummy tuck transformations. After weeks of internal debate, she made a decision that would address both concerns in a single surgery.

The results? She’s thriving.

*The patient’s name was changed to protect their privacy. All medical details and photographic before and after results are from actual Patient Case #3372. Individual results may vary based on body type, surgical approach, and adherence to post-operative instructions.

What Brought Abigail* to The Clinic for Plastic Surgery

The Concerns That Led to Her Decision

Abigail’s* primary frustration wasn’t the size of her breasts, it was the asymmetry. One breast had descended significantly more than the other, creating a visible imbalance that affected her clothing choices and self-image. The ptosis made her feel older than her years, and she found herself avoiding form-fitting tops and certain styles altogether.

But as she explored breast lift options, she spent hours reviewing breast lift before and after galleries on our website. That’s when something unexpected happened: she became captivated by the tummy tuck results. Though her abdominal concerns had taken a backseat to her breast issues, seeing the dramatic improvements in other patients made her reconsider. Why not address both areas at once?

During our consultation, she expressed a clear vision: restore symmetry and lift to her breasts while achieving a firmer, more contoured midsection. She wasn’t looking to change her cup size, she wanted her D cups back where they belonged.

Pre-Surgery Considerations

Like many patients, Abigail had questions that needed answers before committing to surgery:

Recovery logistics: How would combining procedures impact her downtime? Could she realistically manage recovery from both surgeries simultaneously?

Scarring: She understood scarring was inevitable but wanted to know what to expect and how to minimize visibility long-term.

Results longevity: Would her breasts maintain their lifted position? How permanent were these changes?

I assured her that combining procedures is common and, in many cases, more efficient than staging them separately. While recovery requires commitment, many patients find that addressing multiple concerns in one surgery, with a single recovery period, is worth the initial investment of time and energy. As for scarring, my techniques prioritize minimal, well-placed incisions that fade significantly over time. Abigail’s* age and good skin elasticity were also favorable factors for optimal healing.

Designing Abigail’s* Surgical Approach

The Dual-Procedure Strategy

After thorough evaluation, I developed a customized surgical plan targeting both her breast and abdominal concerns:

1. Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

• Anchor-pattern incision technique to address moderate to severe ptosis
• Repositioning of the nipple-areola complex to a higher, more youthful position
• Removal of excess skin to create a firmer, more lifted breast contour
• Reshaping of breast tissue to restore symmetry between both breasts

2. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

• Full abdominoplasty with muscle repair to tighten separated abdominal muscles
• Removal of excess skin and stubborn fat from the lower abdomen
• Recontouring of the waistline for a smoother, more defined silhouette
• Strategic incision placement along the bikini line for discreet scarring

This combination is particularly effective because it addresses two of the most common post-pregnancy and aging-related concerns in a single operation. By performing breast lift surgery alongside a tummy tuck, we maximized her transformation while minimizing overall recovery time compared to staging procedures months apart.

The Clinical Reasoning Behind the Plan

Abigail’s* case required balancing aesthetic goals with practical considerations. Her breast asymmetry demanded precise tissue repositioning and skin removal, not just on one side, but with careful calibration to achieve symmetry between both breasts. The anchor-pattern mastopexy technique allowed me the versatility needed to lift, reshape, and reposition her breasts while maintaining natural proportions.

The decision to add a tummy tuck came from Abigail herself, but it was clinically sound. Many patients don’t realize that addressing multiple body zones simultaneously can produce more harmonious results than piecemeal procedures. In over 25 years of practice, I’ve found that comprehensive transformations often yield higher satisfaction because the entire silhouette changes together, creating balanced, proportionate outcomes.

For Abigail, maintaining her D cup size was essential, she didn’t want smaller or larger breasts, just lifted, symmetrical ones. This clarity made surgical planning straightforward. We weren’t adding volume with implants or reducing size with tissue removal beyond what was necessary for the lift. The focus was pure positional correction and breast lift without breast implants.

Navigating Recovery: Abigail’s* Post-Operative Experience

The First Two Weeks: Adjustment and Patience

Abigail described the first 72 hours as the most challenging. She experienced tightness across her abdomen from the tummy tuck and sensitivity around her breast incisions. Movement required deliberate effort, she walked slightly hunched to avoid pulling on her abdominal sutures and needed help with overhead reaching due to breast lift restrictions.

Pain management was critical during this window. She followed her prescribed medication schedule closely and used ice packs to reduce swelling. Sleep was only comfortable in a reclined position, and she relied on support pillows to maintain proper positioning.

Week 1-2: Gradual Improvement

By the end of the first week, Abigail noticed tangible progress. The initial swelling began subsiding, and she could move more independently. She still wore her surgical compression garment for the tummy tuck and a supportive surgical bra for her breasts, both essential for optimal healing.

Critical recovery protocols she followed:

• No lifting anything over 10 pounds to protect abdominal muscle repair
• Keeping incisions clean and dry to prevent infection
• Avoiding overhead arm movements to minimize tension on breast lift incisions
• Walking regularly (short, gentle walks) to promote circulation and reduce blood clot risk
• Staying hydrated and eating protein-rich foods to support tissue healing

By week two, she returned for her first follow-up appointment. Incisions were healing beautifully, and early signs of her new contours were becoming visible beneath the residual swelling.

Weeks 3-8: Watching the Transformation Unfold

This phase marked a turning point. Abigail transitioned out of prescription pain medication and into over-the-counter options as needed. She could dress herself without assistance, drive short distances, and resume light daily activities. The tightness in her abdomen softened, and the lifted position of her breasts became more apparent.

She still avoided strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, but her energy levels improved dramatically. Many patients describe this period as “seeing the light at the end of the tunnel,” and Abigail was no exception.

Weeks 5-8: Results Taking Shape

At the two-month mark, Abigail’s* transformation was undeniable. Swelling had diminished significantly, revealing the true contours of her breast lift and tummy tuck. Her breasts sat higher and more symmetrically, with her nipples repositioned to a natural, youthful level. Her abdomen was flat and firm, with a defined waistline.

She gradually reintroduced exercise, starting with walking and light cardio, then progressing to core-strengthening activities under my guidance. Understanding breast lift recovery time and realistic expectations helped her stay patient during the healing process.

Three-Month Results: Symmetry Restored, Confidence Renewed

At her three-month follow-up, Abigail’s* results spoke for themselves:

Breast Outcomes:

• Symmetrical breast positioning with both breasts sitting at matching heights
• Nipple-areola complexes repositioned to a youthful, natural level
• Maintained D cup volume with improved shape and firmness
• Minimal scarring with incision lines fading as expected

Abdominal Outcomes:

• Flat, contoured midsection with tightened abdominal wall
• Smooth waistline free of excess skin
• Well-healed tummy tuck scar along the bikini line
• Restored core strength and improved posture

Beyond the physical changes, Abigail reported a profound shift in how she felt. She no longer avoided certain clothing styles or worried about visible asymmetry. Her confidence had returned, not because she looked like someone else, but because she looked like herself again.

What Made This Outcome Exceptional

Several factors contributed to Abigail’s* outstanding results:

1. Patient-driven decision-making: Abigail’s* choice to combine procedures came from researching our tummy tuck before and after galleries and recognizing an opportunity to address multiple concerns at once.
   
2. Age and skin quality: At 37, Abigail’s* skin had good elasticity, which supported excellent healing and scar maturation.
   
3. Precise surgical technique: The anchor-pattern mastopexy allowed for significant lifting and reshaping while maintaining natural breast proportions. The full abdominoplasty addressed both skin laxity and muscle separation.
   
4. Strict adherence to post-operative instructions: Abigail followed recovery protocols meticulously, which directly impacted her healing quality and scar appearance.
   
5. Realistic expectations and patience: She understood that final results take time to emerge and trusted the process, which reduced anxiety and supported optimal healing.
   

Common Questions About Breast Lift and Tummy Tuck Combinations

Can you safely combine a breast lift with a tummy tuck?

Yes, combining these procedures is common and safe when performed by an experienced surgeon. Many patients prefer addressing both areas in a single surgery to consolidate recovery time. The key is careful surgical planning, appropriate anesthesia management, and realistic patient expectations about the recovery period. I’ve performed thousands of combination procedures throughout my career, and when patients are good candidates, the results can be transformative.

How long do breast lift results last without implants?

Breast lift results are long-lasting, but not entirely permanent. Factors like aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, and future pregnancies can affect breast position over time. However, most patients enjoy their lifted, symmetrical results for many years. Maintaining a stable weight, wearing supportive bras, and following healthy lifestyle habits can help preserve your results. For patients like Abigail who maintained their original cup size, the lifted position typically holds up beautifully because we’re working with their natural tissue rather than adding implants.

What should I expect from breast lift scarring?

Breast lift scars are inevitable with mastopexy, but their appearance improves significantly over time. The anchor-pattern technique creates incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease. Initially, scars are red and visible, but within 6-12 months, they typically fade to thin, light lines. Abigail’s* scars at three months were healing nicely, and I expect them to continue fading over the coming months. Proper scar care, including silicone sheets, sun protection, and following post-op instructions, makes a substantial difference.

Ready to Write Your Own Breast Lift Success Story?

Abigail walked into my Houston office concerned about asymmetry and drooping that had been affecting her confidence for years. She walked out three months later with symmetrical, lifted breasts and a flat, contoured abdomen, results she couldn’t stop smiling about.

Your concerns might be different. Maybe you’re focused solely on addressing breast ptosis, wondering whether breast lift vs implants is the right choice for you, or considering whether a breast lift with augmentation would better meet your goals.

The common thread is simple: You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own body. Your body deserves the same dedication you give to fitness and health. If asymmetry, ptosis, or body contour concerns are affecting your quality of life, transformation is possible.

Schedule Your Personalized Consultation here, or call us today at (281) 940-1535 and discover what’s possible for your unique body and goals in Houston!

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Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD, FACS, and The Clinic for Plastic Surgery Team are here to help you achieve refined, natural-looking results.

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Schedule your personalized consultation today at DrSukkar.com or call (281) 940-1535.

About the Author – Meet Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD

Dr. Sukkar earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in 1992 after graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. He then completed an intensive General Surgery Residency at the University of Texas Hermann Hospital before being selected for a highly competitive Plastic Surgery Fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago, one of the most prestigious training programs in the country.

With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Sukkar is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). He is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Houston Society of Plastic Surgery (HSPS). His dedication to innovation and continuing education has solidified his reputation as a leading expert in aesthetic surgery, specializing in breast surgery, body contouring, facial procedures, and non-invasive treatments.

Dr. Sukkar’s expertise has been recognized by Houston Magazine, naming him one of Houston’s “Top Docs for Women,” and he has been featured among RealSelf’s America’s Top Doctors. Committed to his patients, he prioritizes personalized care, ensuring every individual feels informed, comfortable, and confident in their aesthetic journey.

Contact Dr. Sukkar today to schedule a consultation, visit DrSukkar.com to learn more, or call us directly at (281) 940-1535.

Cover Image Illustration by: Dr. Sam Sukkar, MD, The Clinic for Plastic Surgery.