May 04, 2025 | 4 minute read
By Dr. Alexander Gougoutas
When patients come in for a breast lift, breast reduction, or breast augmentation in Seattle, they’re often focused on the breasts themselves- which makes perfect sense. But what many don’t realize is that anatomic areas neighboring the breasts themselves can play just as big a role in achieving a smooth, balanced and beautiful result.
Any procedure that addresses these anatomic areas adjacent to the breasts themselves are called ancillary breast procedures. These are additional treatments that can be performed at the same time as your primary breast surgery to enhance and refine your overall upper body contour.
What Are Ancillary Breast Procedures?
Ancillary breast procedures are optional, but highly effective treatments that can be performed at the time of breast surgery. These procedures target common areas of concern near the breasts – like the underarms, sides and back. These procedures are especially popular when patients want a more contoured look after breast surgery. Below are some examples of ancillary breast procedures.
- Back Lift: An extension of the axillary lift that removes excess tissue across the upper or mid-back, smoothing out bulges and improving back / waist definition. Most people don’t realize that extra side rolls of tissue above the waist are not fixable with a tummy tuck which pulls tissues downward. These extra rolls are treated with the upward pull of a back lift. The incision for a back lift is a natural extension of the axillary lift incision that extends all the way around the back and is concealed within the bra line.
- Axillary Lift: Targets extra skin and fat under the armpits to sculpt and contour the underarm area. This procedures also accomplishes some waist tightening along the hips as well. The scar for this procedure is a natural extension of the breast reduction incisions and is concealed while wearing a bra.
- Liposuction of the Bra Roll and/or Tank Top Roll: Reduces localized fat deposits for a smoother appearance along the bra line and the upper tank top line. No additional incisions are generally required.
Why Combine These Procedures with Your Breast Surgery?
There are several advantages to performing ancillary breast procedures at the same time as a breast lift, reduction, or augmentation:
- Consistent, hidden incisions – Performing all procedures at once allows for a unified surgical plan. I can ensure incision placement stays discreetly within the bra line for optimal healing and concealment.
- More balanced results – Evaluating the entire upper torso during surgical planning allows me to shape the area as a whole – ensuring symmetry, smooth transitions, and a natural look.
- Efficient recovery – Combining procedures avoids the need for a second surgery later and keeps recovery time consolidated. Many patients find the recovery timeline to be very similar to that of breast surgery alone.
Elevate Your Entire Upper Body Contour
For many patients, breast surgery is just the beginning. If you want to feel confident in a fitted top, refining areas like the bra roll, underarm area, and back can make a world of difference.
These procedures are not about doing more – they’re about doing it thoughtfully. Together, they help ensure that your final results feel intentional, smooth, and uniquely yours.
Ready to Complete Your Look?
If you’re considering a breast lift, breast reduction, or breast augmentation in Seattle, it’s the ideal time to talk about whether ancillary breast procedures could benefit you. These small additions often make a big impact – both in how you look and how you feel.
I do not just focus on one area – I create a seamless, harmonious shape that feels right for you.