One day post-breast lift - so far I am thrilled with my results

After researching breast lifts for the past decade, I finally went through with the procedure after finding Dr. Jacob Unger here in Nashville. My breasts have always sat lower on my long torso and years of going off and on birth control and weight fluctuations had caused a major loss in density. My breasts were deflated, hollow, stretch-marked, and sagging and I hated how they looked in (and out of) bras and swimsuits.
I visited a number of doctors but they all pressured me about getting implants - which I was adamant I did not want. One doctor told me my breasts would be "saggy" without an implant and another refused to entertain that I would not be having children after my surgery. I felt unheard and condescended to.
During my consultation with Dr. Unger I immediately knew I had found the right surgeon. He was confident that I could still maintain volume without an implant and said that I would have "modelesque" breasts to fit my tall and thin frame. A much better word choice than "saggy". Not everyone wants large breasts with implants and he gets it!
The staff at Dr. Unger's office have been so wonderful during all visits. From his nursing team to front desk reception to the billing staff - it's been a pleasure interacting with everyone. I can honestly say that I was not one bit nervous before my surgery, I had that much confidence that I was in the best hands.
I've spent years scrolling through before and after photos on Real Self and it was an invaluable tool for me to see the reality of what to expect with a breast lift. I'd like to share my before and after journey on this platform as I continue to heal. I hope it helps someone make their own informed decision. I'm just 24 hours since my breast lift but I will continue to post updates throughout the process. So far I am thrilled with my results and can't wait for my breasts to heal and settle into place. No regrets!

I am one week into recovery and just had my first follow-up visit with Dr. Unger. Everything is healing as it should and swelling is slowly diminishing. Bruising has increased but wearing a tight sports bra 24/7 helps me feel secure. I stopped pain medication after day 4 and finish up the last of my antibiotics today. Overall the hardest part about recovery has been not lifting anything over 10 lbs (everything is over 10 lbs lol!) and not exercising. I’ve found my hunger levels have increased as well.
My steri strips are still tightly in place and I put bacitracin on the “T zone” twice daily where there is the greatest pressure from the incisions pulling in three directions. The doctor’s office gave me scar gel to start using in 2 weeks when my steri strips come off. I’m anxious to see what my areolas and incisions look like under all that tape.
I am still very pleased with my results and looking forward to seeing the final breast size and shape as they continue to heal. I will post another update when the strips come off.

I planned to wait until next week to post, when my tape comes off, but bruising is almost gone and I wanted to share. I bought my first backless dress (ever!) and have gone down a size in tops and dresses - all thanks to the lift.
I went for my first exercise walk at two weeks but kept it short at one mile. My lower incisions are still tender but I plan to walk at least a mile every day until I’m cleared for more intense cardio at 4 weeks.
I experienced the “zingers” 1.5 weeks into recovery which was quite a shock- literally! A google search explained this was normal to feel as nerves that were stretched during surgery loosen and repair themselves. Thankfully it only lasted 48 hours because it was painful and a strange feeling. It is a sign of healing though so I’m happy that my nerves are healthy and functioning as they should.
While my breasts are much less sore, I have developed muscle pain in my back. Another google search described this as the result of “protective posturing” which is when people hunch their shoulders and back after surgery to instinctively protect themselves. I’ve absolutely been posturing like this and am now conscious about arching my back and sitting up straight. I also found some stretching exercises online that are recommended after breast surgery and will be adding those to my daily routine.