Laser Bra Breast Surgery

Reviewed by Grant Stevens, MD, FACS

Laser bra breast surgery involves the use of laser energy to create an "internal brassiere” that lifts and supports your breasts. The procedure may be paired with breast reduction, breast lift or breast augmentation.

Is Laser Bra Surgery Right for You?

The best candidates for laser bra breast surgery are women with breast ptosis (sagging). The procedure may be a good option for women who are concerned about nipple sensitivity and breast-feeding following breast surgery because the nipple is not detached or affected during laser bra surgery.

Women considering laser bra surgery must be in good overall health. Certain illnesses may increase the risk of complications. Your surgeon may suggest a full physical to clear you for this surgery.

Choosing a Surgeon

Only a small percentage of plastic surgeons have experience with the laser bra breast procedure. It's important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in all breast-related procedures. Board certification requires rigorous surgical education and training. The type of board certification is also important. There are more than 150 self-designated boards, but only a handful that are recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Make sure your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Find out more about choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon here.

Your surgeon should also have experience operating a laser. During your initial consultation with your surgeon, ask how many times he or she has performed laser bra surgery. Before-and-after photos may also be available. Start your search for a skilled laser bra surgeon now.

The Laser Bra Procedure

The laser bra procedure is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center while you are under general anesthesia. Time in surgery is up to two hours.

The exact surgical details vary. For example, if laser bra surgery is part of a breast augmentation, your surgeon inserts the breast implants through an incision and positions them in the desired placement location. The doctor then applies energy from a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to the outermost tissue layer, creating an internal bra to support the remaining tissue and implant. The laser bra can’t be seen or felt. It uses your own breast tissue to provide enhanced internal support.

After Laser Bra Surgery: What to Expect

The recovery time for this procedure depends on what surgery it is paired with, but typically lasts five to seven days. Follow your surgeon’s pre- and post-op instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications. You will be restricted from exercising or lifting 10 pounds or more. You may be fitted with a compression garment to encourage healing and reduce swelling. You can resume normal activities within three weeks.

If drains are used to get rid of excess blood and fluid, they will need to be emptied and cleaned. Any surgical dressings will also need to be changed regularly.

Expect some pain, swelling and bruising, which can be managed with medications. Complications are infrequent, but may include infection, bleeding and excessive scarring.

Laser Bra Breast Surgery Cost

The laser bra breast surgery cost is based on the breast enhancement procedure that it is performed with. Fees include anesthesia fees, facility fees and surgeon fees. Once you and your plastic surgeon have discussed your condition, goals and options, your surgeon will provide an estimate.

If the cost of laser bra breast surgery is prohibitive, ask about payment plans and medical finance options. Most medical practices provide consumer-friendly payment plans that allow you to make monthly payments over an extended time period. Medical finance companies may offer flexible finance options as well. Learn more about your financing options.

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About the Reviewer of This Article

Grant Stevens, MD, FACS, is the Medical Director for Plastic Surgery Associates in Marina del Rey and Palos Verdes, California, and Medical Director for the Marina Outpatient Surgery Center. Dr. Stevens is an active member at Daniel Freeman Marina Hospital, where he formerly served as chairman of the Department of Surgery. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and actively participates in 17 local, state, national and international plastic surgery societies. Dr. Stevens is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and was the Co-Director of The Breast Center at Los Angeles Daniel Freeman Marina Hospital. Dr. Stevens coined the term "gummy bear gel implants" and is involved in the clinical trials of these implants. He is also a medical advisor for Breastimplants4you.com.

[page updated April 5, 2011]