There are several different kinds of lifts, and depending on the state of your breasts, a good PS can determine which is best for you. Beware the surgeon who only does one kind of procedure. This is not a "one size fits all" proposition.

There are "benelli" lifts (done by making an incision around the areola and lifting the skin and cutting the excess, thus resulting in a lifted breast) which would only correct a small degree of sagging. The "anchor" lift, is also called the "full" lift, is the most extensive lift. Its incision goes down the front of the breast and also goes across each breast crease. Many surgeons consider this lift to be outdated. I got a "vertical" lift (also known as the "lollipop" lift) in which incisions were made around each areola and extended from the areola down the front of the breast. This is also called the "short scar" technique. No incision was necessary in the crease. My incisions have faded to the point that they are nearly invisible, and can't be seen unless you are pretty close and in bright light. I really think I healed so well because I was so careful for 2 months after surgery.

An "internal" lift means that not only skin is removed, but suturing is done within the breast in order to reshape it. You can search around the net for information on this stuff - plenty to learn out there. Many PS's will recommend implants along with the lift. (it means guaranteed repeat surgeries down the line - like a "subscription"!) Keep in mind that the weight of the implant will stress the healing at the incision site. I knew that if I decided to get them, I would still get the lift first, so that it could heal properly. In retrospect, I am very happy I didn't get them, because I will never have to deal with the possible complications, let alone possible dangers associated with them. Even if they are not dangerous (and I am not convinced they're not), there are still so many things that can go wrong with them; capsular contraction (hardness), rippling, bottoming out, symastia, asymetry, etc.

In terms of lifts, when you are doing your consults (I would encourage you to do at least 3), ask if the surgeon is trained in the "Le Jour" technique, developed by a female surgeon (Madame Le Jour) in Belgium. The "Le Jour" is a modern technique which uses the lollipop incision and internal lifting techniques. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions. Look at lots of before and after pictures. They are out there. Since you are planning this for the future, you will have the luxury of time to investigate new techniques. I know there is one being worked on now involving tunnelling part of the breast under itself during a lift which results in upper pole fullness. It creates a result that looks almost like an implant. However, it is still so new that I wasn't willing to trust it. I always ask how any technique will affect a technologist being able to read a mammogram, too. I guess this is long enough! Thanks for asking - my friends and family are sick of talking about breast surgery!!!