Internal Bra Breast Lift Surgery in Chicago
What is an Internal Bra Breast Lift?
Definition: An internal bra is an absorbable soft-tissue scaffold placed during a breast lift, augmentation, or reduction to support the lower breast to help provide support, shape and lift.
What it does: The internal mesh bra helps hold shape and position, reducing early sagging or bottoming out and preserving upper-pole fullness. It redistributes weight off stretched tissues and can improve implant stability and symmetry, especially in thin skin or revision cases.
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Who is a good candidate for an internal bra Lift?
Women who desire lasting fullness and perkiness after breast reduction, breast lift and implant revision breast surgery may greatly benefit from an internal bra breast lift, also known as breast scaffolding or internal bra breast lift.
You may benefit from an internal bra if you:
- Women with very heavy breasts having a breast reduction
- Massive weight loss patients having a reduction, lift, or lift with implants
- Women with breast implants who developed sagging over time
- Post-pregnancy patients with stretched skin and deflated tissue who may not adequately support an implant
- Women with implant malposition or "bottoming out"
Even without adding an implant, some patients benefit from a fully absorbable mesh sling to support remaining tissue after reduction.
What are the benefits of an internal mesh bra?
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Better control of breast position and shape, with or without implants
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Reduced risk of early sagging or implant descent
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Improved implant pocket stability and symmetry in revision cases
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A firmer, more supported silhouette that aims to last longer
“I had the best experience with Dr Lin. I went in for a consultation for liposuction. Dr Lin was so knowledgeable and made me feel so comfortable. He was honest and I knew right away I wanted him to be my surgeon. The best service from the beginning to the end. I am so beyond happy with my results. I would recommend him to anyone that wants to see amazing results and feel confident."
-happygirl1215, Actual Patient
Why Choose Chicago Breast & BodY?
✓ Voted #1 Plastic Surgery Clinic in Chicago, Illinois
Patients come to us from Chicago and across the country for safety-focused planning and natural-looking results. About 40% of our patients travel from outside Illinois to have surgery with our team.
✓ Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgery Specialists Matched to Your Goals
At Chicago Breast and Body, you’re never treated by a surgeon who does a "little bit of everything". You’re matched with a board-certified surgeon who focuses on the exact procedure you want, so you benefit from concentrated experience and a more personalized plan. Whether you’re considering breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), tummy tuck, breast lift, gynecomastia, or vaginal rejuvenation., you see the surgeon who does that type of surgery every day. This specialist approach is designed to improve safety, enhance your results, and keep your outcome looking natural and proportional.
✓ Real Results & Before After Photos
Your can view thousands of unedited before and after photos showing different body types and starting points. This helps you plan realistic goals before you schedule surgery.
✓ Transparent pricing & Flexible Financing Options
Achieving your dream look shouldn't be out of reach. You'll get clear pricing and plan you can understand. We offer flexible financing options so you can move forward without added stress.
✓ Cutting-Edge Techniques & Technology
We use only the latest, proven technologies and surgical techniques to ensure optimal results. Our team is constantly innovating and evolving to deliver the safest and most effective outcomes available today.
✓ Nationally Accredited for Patient Safety
Your procedure takes place at our AAAHC-accredited surgical facility, reflecting the highest standards in outpatient surgical care and patient safety. Many of our surgeons are nationally recognized leaders in patient safety and serve as educators and trainers for other surgeons.
Before and After Photo Gallery
Our Chicago Breast and Body photo gallery showcases thousands of before and after photos of satisfied patients. It's no surprise that our cosmetic surgeons are recognized among the best surgeons in Chicago, Illinois. See why so many trust us for their transformations.
How does the internal Bra Support the Breast?
Dr. Truong and Dr. Lin places the internal mesh bra through the same incisions as your main surgery. It’s sutured to the breast fold and other key points to share the load. This internal support helps control breast position, shape, and implant placement.
At Chicago Breast and Body, we use GalaFLEX to build the internal bra. The mesh supports and gently tightens soft tissue while your body heals. Your natural tissue grows into it, and the mesh reabsorbs over about 12 to 18 months. What remains is your own stronger tissue for lasting support.
Internal Mesh Bra Recovery Timeline
During your recovery, plan to rest the first day, start short walks the next morning, and wear your post-surgical bra around the clock until your first visit. Most people feel ready to return to work in about 7-10 days, then slowly add activity over the next few weeks. Swelling, bruising, and some numb spots are common early on and improve with time. Showers are okay after 48 hours, but no soaking, pools, or hot tubs for 4 weeks, and no underwire for up to 8 weeks unless your surgeon clears you sooner.
Day 0-1:
Rest the day of surgery. Stand slowly to avoid dizziness. Start short walks the next morning-don't stay in bed all day.
48 hours:
You may shower. Keep bandages and steri-strips under the bra in place and let them air-dry after. Do not soak in water.
Days 2-7:
Swelling and bruising are normal. Wear your post-surgical bra 24/7 until your first visit. Eat low-salt, high-protein, high-fiber foods; drink plenty of water. Use a stool softener if you're on pain meds.
Days 7-10:
Most people can return to work based on comfort. Keep walking daily; add activity slowly and ask your surgeon before exercising.
Weeks 2-4:
You'll likely switch to a post-surgical bra or sports bra (no underwire). Keep bandages off unless you're still draining. No pools, hot tubs, or baths for 4 weeks.
Weeks 4-8:
No underwire bras for up to 8 weeks (confirm at your visit). Gradually increase workouts per your surgeon's guidance.
Months 1-3:
Numb spots and nipple sensation changes are common and usually improve as nerves wake up. Keep protecting scars from the sun (SPF 30+).
Months 3-6:
Swelling continues to settle; shape looks more refined. Many patients start feeling "like themselves" again.
Months 6-12:
Final results come into focus. Some numbness can take up to a year to fully improve.
This timeline is a general guide-every body heals at its own pace. Always follow your surgeon's specific directions, including any updates from Dr. Truong or Dr. Lin. If something feels off or you're unsure about an activity, call your surgeon.
“Dr. Truong and Monika and all the nursing staff are amazing. I chose this office from a referral and my heart told me this is one. I am a mom of 4 kids it was time to get myself back. At just 5 weeks post op I am so happy with the result. He is very skilled at what he does. I wish I didn’t wait so long to do this!"
- Joanna, Actual Patient
How much does an internal bra breast lift cost in Chicago?
The cost of your internal bra breast lift ypically starts at $11,995 to $14,995 or more.
*Your final quote may vary based on several factors, including:
- The complexity of your case e.g. if you need a breast implant, reduction or lift.
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The surgeon’s qualifications and experience
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Your individual aesthetic goals
A personalized quote will be provided during your consultation after a full evaluation of your anatomy and goals. Complimentary virtual consultations are available with photos. Financing options are available to help make treatment more affordable and fit with any budget.
What procedures can you combine with Internal Bra Surgery?
Pairing your internal bra with another breast procedure can boost support, shape, and symmetry so your results look more balanced and last longer. Doing them together also means one surgery, one recovery, and often lower total costs for anesthesia and facility fees.
Complementary Procedures
Adds internal support to keep implants in the right position and hold upper-pole fullness longer.
Reinforces the new fold so the lift holds its shape and resists early sagging.
Augmentation-mastopexy (lift with implants):
Stabilizes both the lift and the implant pocket for better symmetry and longer-lasting contour.
Breast reduction (mammaplasty):
Supports heavier tissue so the breasts stay lifted and the lower border stays well-defined.
Renuvion J-Plasma Skin Tightening:
Tightens the skin after fat removal for smoother results.
Axillary (Bra Fat) Liposuction:
Smooths the underarm and side-bra bulge to sharpen the breast and torso line, enhance symmetry, and accentuate the lifted look.
“ I have the body of my dreams and I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I have my confidence back ,and you just can’t put a price on that. If I ever have any more procedures I’ll choose Chicago Breast & Body again."
- Bridgette, Actual Patient
Voted #1 Best of Plastic Surgery
in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics is Chicago’s leading destination for cosmetic surgery of the body, breast, and face. Our award-winning team of board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeons is trusted by thousands for their advanced training, surgical precision, and natural-looking results. With a reputation built on excellence, safety, and patient satisfaction, we’re here to help you look and feel your absolute best.
Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong is a triple-board certified cosmetic surgeon, including the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American Board of Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Truong was Voted One of "America’s Top Surgeons" in the Field of Cosmetic Surgery by Consumer’s Research Council of America and Chicago's Top 10 Plastic Surgeon's. Dr. Truong is the founder and CEO of Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics.
Dr. Pey-Yi Kevin Lin is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Chicago who emphasizes tailored care and treatment to each individual patient. Dr. Lin is skilled in both Plastic and Reconstructive surgery trained under nationally renowned aesthetic and reconstructive surgeons, gaining valuable insight and an unparalleled experience with stunning results. Dr. Lin's specialty lies primarily in Breast and Body Contouring.
Dr. John D. Rachel, a distinguished figure in the realm of facial plastic surgery, holds four board certifications: Facial Plastic Surgery, and by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and Otolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery). Dr. Rachel is known for his facial rejuvenation results and specializes in Rhinoplasty, Face Lift and Blepharoplasty procedures. He is also esteemed as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Internal Bra Surgery FAQs
What is an internal bra breast surgery?
An internal bra is an absorbable mesh scaffold placed during your lift, augmentation, reduction, or revision. It supports the lower breast from the inside so your shape and implant position hold longer. At Chicago Breast and Body, it’s added only when it truly benefits your result.
Is an internal bra a separate surgery?
No. It is added to your main procedure such as a breast augmenation, lift or reduction and uses the same incisions.
How do I know if I need an internal bra?
You may be a candidate if you have heavy breasts, stretched skin after weight loss or breastfeeding, sagging implants, or issues like implant malposition or “bottoming out.” Dr. Lin and Dr. Truong will evaluate you during your consultation to see if an internal bra will benefit you.
Can an internal bra fix implant malposition or “bottoming out”?
Yes. Mesh reinforcement tightens and strengthens the pocket or fold so the implant sits higher and stays centered. This helps restore upper-pole fullness and balance after pocket stretching or poor implant position.
How long does the mesh last and how does it absorb?
Dr. Truong and Dr. Lin commonly used mesh like GalaFLEX supports healing tissue as your body grows into it, then gradually absorbs over about 12-18 months. What's left is your own stronger tissue to help maintain shape over time.
Will I feel the mesh bra?
Some patients, especially with thin tissue, may feel the scaffold early on. This should fade over time as the internal mesh bra integrates and absorbs.
Is an internal bra safe and what are the risks?
All surgery have risks, including infection, fluid build-up, bleeding, or delayed healing. We lower risk with careful screening, precise placement, and close follow-up. Dr. Truong and Dr. Lin will review your specific medical history and safety plan.
How much does an internal bra cost in Chicago?
It’s an add-on to your main procedure, so pricing depends on mesh choice and case complexity. Chicago Breast and Body provides a clear, personalized quote and financing options at your consultation.
Have more questions? Contact us today!
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You deserve to feel confident in your own skin. We focus on natural-looking results that enhance your proportions without ever looking overdone. Our team prioritizes your safety and sets clear expectations from day one so you feel guided through every step of your journey. Reach out to us today to schedule your complimentary virtual consultation and see what is realistically possible for you.
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Medical Disclaimer: The content and images on this page have been medically reviewed for accuracy by our board-certified surgeons: Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS, certified by the American Board of Surgery, American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery; Dr. Pey-Yi Kevin Lin, MD, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery; and Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. This information is intended solely for educational purposes to help potential patients understand the procedure discussed. Individual results may vary and will depend on a comprehensive consultation and evaluation by one of our board-certified surgeons prior to treatment.