Also called a mastopexy, the breast lift is a procedure that restores the breast to a more firm and youthful form by reshaping and elevating the breast.  As a woman ages, the breast tissue loses its youthful shape and firmness and begins to sag.  The skin loses its natural elasticity and the nipple areola complex may widen and point downward.  Pregnancy, breast feeding, weight fluctuations, and gravity all contribute to this process and inevitably result in sagging of the breasts.  The breast lift removes excess skin and the breast tissue is reshaped and supported.  The nipple areolar complex is elevated to a more central position on the breast mound.  Mastopexy does not significantly change the size of the breast.  If a woman desires added fullness and wishes to increase her breast size, breast augmentation can be performed at the same time.  Incisions extend around the areola and as a vertical line down the lower pole of the breast.  Occasionally this incision extends into the natural crease below the breast.   The result is an elevated, firmer, more youthful appearing breast.