Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery
4400 Post Oak Pkwy, Suite 300
Houston, TX 77027
Phone: (713) 352-3199
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery
12727 Kimberley Lane, Suite 300
Houston, TX 77024
Phone: (713) 799-9999
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
A bra line lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin along the bra line at the sides and back. Both skin and any extra fat are removed from this area. The incision is carried from one side to the other along the bra line so that the scar remains as hidden as possible. The final effect of this surgery is a smoother silhouette and back, and a narrower torso overall.
Some patients may have loose skin and skin folds on the sides that do not wrap around to the back. Oftentimes, this can appear as fullness or laxity on the sides of the breasts. In this case, an alternative surgery to a bra line lift may be a better option to address the loose skin. A torsoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin along the sides. The incision for this runs from underneath the armpit and curves down to meet the crease under the breast. The final effect of this surgery is to smooth the sides and enhance the definition of the sides of the breasts.
Oftentimes, Dr. Rodriguez may recommend combining a bra line lift or torsoplasty with liposuction of this area and the back to provide a comprehensive treatment.
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VIEW PHOTOSNo. There are other names for a bra line lift, including an upper body lift or a back lift. These are essentially the same thing: surgery that removes excess skin along the mid-back and sides.
Both men and women who have had significant weight loss and are left with loose skin in these areas can benefit from this type of surgery.
If you are a man or woman in the Houston area, you may be a candidate for a bra line lift, torsoplasty, upper body lift, or back lift with Dr. Rodriguez if you:
A bra line lift, or a similar type of surgery, is performed under general anesthesia. Typically, you can return home the same day of surgery to recover in the comfort of your home. Your incision may feel tight at first, but this will relax over the coming days to weeks.
Dr. Rodriguez performs a drainless bra line lift, an upper body lift, a torsoplasty, and a back lift. She uses progressive tension sutures: internal, absorbable stitches that close off the space under the skin, preventing fluid from accumulating. This means a drain does not need to be used.
You will wear a wrap or garment over the mid-back after surgery for about 6 weeks.
Most patients can expect to return to work about 2 weeks after surgery. This may vary depending on the type of job you have. You should not carry anything heavier than 5 lbs for the early part of your recovery, and you should limit reaching overhead to avoid placing too much tension on the incision.
You can resume your regular exercise routine 6 weeks after surgery, with no restrictions.
Dr. Abigail Rodriguez blends advanced surgical expertise with refined artistry to create results that look natural, balanced, and enduring. Known for her compassion, transparency, and commitment to patient education and safety, she provides individualized care supported by a state-of-the-art facility, enhanced recovery protocols, and comprehensive follow-up—all designed to ensure you feel cared for, confident, and understood throughout your transformation.
Widely regarded as a top board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez's excellence has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons and by Texas Super Doctors multiple times. She is trusted for her meticulous precision and genuine dedication to helping patients look and feel their most authentic and confident.
After a bra line lift or a similar procedure, some swelling will be present. Most of the swelling will go down in the first couple of months after surgery.
Dr. Rodriguez encourages scar massage and the use of silicone sheets or gel to help the scar heal as optimally as possible. It is essential to protect the scar from the sun, particularly in the first few months after surgery, as sun exposure can cause it to darken.
To ensure a long-lasting result after this surgery, it is essential to maintain your pre-surgical weight during and after your recovery. Weight fluctuations can stretch the skin again, causing the same loose skin on the back. A stable weight means lasting results.
Liposuction is best for removing excess fat, but it does not address loose or sagging skin. If you have significant skin laxity along the upper back, a bra line lift is often the more effective option for achieving a smooth, contoured result.
A bra line lift is generally safe when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. However, like any surgery, it carries some risks. Potential complications can include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, fluid buildup (seroma), changes in skin sensation, and visible scarring. Dr. Rodriguez takes careful steps to minimize these risks and will review your medical history, surgical plan, and aftercare instructions in detail to help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal outcome.
Yes, a bra line lift (back lift) does leave a permanent scar, but Dr. Rodriguez strategically places incisions along the bra line so the scar can be easily concealed beneath most bras and many swimwear styles. While the scar will be visible without clothing, it typically fades over time and becomes less noticeable with proper care.
The cost of a bra line lift in Houston varies depending on the extent of skin removal, whether liposuction is included, and the overall complexity. Because Dr. Rodriguez customizes every treatment plan, the most accurate way to determine the exact cost is through a consultation. We offer financing options to help make treatment more manageable and accessible.
Paying for your procedure shouldn't stand in the way of feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. We offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit® and PatientFi®, to help make your treatment more manageable and accessible.
Our team will guide you through your options and support you during every step of your transformation.
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Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Abigail Rodriguez if you’re interested in learning more about body contouring in Houston. We’re here to help you achieve a look that makes you feel more comfortable in your body.
