Breast lift

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and firm the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. This procedure restores a more youthful, uplifted position for women whose breasts have lost elasticity due to pregnancy, weight loss, or the natural aging process. Our focus is on achieving a rejuvenated appearance that enhances both your physical silhouette and your personal confidence.

Over time, factors such as gravity, breastfeeding, and fluctuations in weight can cause the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to "ptosis" or sagging. A breast lift addresses this by repositioning the breast tissue and the nipple-areolar complex to a higher, more aesthetic level. Unlike an augmentation, a lift primarily focuses on shape and position rather than volume, though the two procedures are frequently combined for patients seeking both lift and increased fullness.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a corrective surgery that targets skin laxity. During the procedure, the surgeon removes redundant skin and repositions the underlying breast tissue to create a firmer, more conical shape. If the areola has become enlarged over time, a breast lift can also reduce its size to ensure it remains proportional to the new breast contour.

There are several techniques used for a breast lift, often categorized by the incision pattern:

• Periareolar (Donut) Lift: For mild sagging, an incision is made only around the edge of the areola.
• Vertical (Lollipop) Lift: For moderate sagging, incisions are made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
• Inverted-T (Anchor) Lift: For more significant sagging, incisions are made around the areola, vertically down, and horizontally along the breast crease.

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate technique based on the degree of sagging and your specific anatomical requirements.

Who is a breast lift for?

A breast lift is an excellent option for women who are satisfied with their breast size but unhappy with the "heaviness" or position of their breasts. You may be a candidate if:

• Your breasts have a pendulous shape or have lost their natural firmness.
• Your nipples point downward or sit below the breast crease.
• You have stretched skin and enlarged areolas.
• One breast sits significantly lower than the other.
• You wish to restore a more youthful breast profile following significant weight loss or pregnancy.

Before the operation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive surgical consultation. Your surgeon will assess your breast tissue, skin quality, and the position of your nipples to determine the degree of ptosis. We will discuss your goals in detail, explaining which incision pattern will yield the best results for your body.

You will receive detailed preoperative instructions, including the requirement to cease smoking and avoid certain supplements or medications that can interfere with healing. Measurements and photographs are taken to serve as a baseline for your surgical plan and to track your progress during recovery.

During the operation

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between 2 and 3 hours. Following the predetermined incision plan, the surgeon lifts and reshapes the internal breast tissue. The nipple and areola are moved to a higher, more youthful position while remaining attached to their original blood and nerve supply to preserve sensation.

Once the internal architecture is secured, the excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is brought together to create the lift. The incisions are closed with fine, deep sutures to provide internal support, followed by skin sutures or surgical tape to ensure the best possible scar maturation.

After the operation and recovery

In the immediate postoperative period, your breasts will be supported by a surgical bra or specialized dressings. You may experience some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort, which is well-managed with prescribed medication. Most patients find they can return to non-strenuous work within 1 to 2 weeks.

It is vital to avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities for at least 6 weeks to allow the internal tissues to heal securely. While the results of the lift are visible immediately, the breasts will continue to settle and the scars will fade over the course of 12 to 18 months. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive bras will help preserve the longevity of your results.

Will a breast lift increase my cup size?

A breast lift alone does not significantly change the size of your breasts; it primarily changes the shape and position. In fact, because the tissue is tightened and the "slack" is removed, the breasts may actually appear slightly smaller but firmer. If you desire more volume, your surgeon may recommend a combined breast lift and augmentation.

How long will the results last?

The results of a breast lift are long-lasting, but your breasts will continue to age naturally. To maintain the results for as long as possible, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a stable weight. Future pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations can restretch the skin and affect the surgical outcome.

Where will the scars be located?

Scarring depends on the technique used. While a breast lift does require incisions, they are strategically placed to be as discreet as possible—either around the areola, down the center of the lower breast, or hidden in the natural crease. Most patients find the improved shape and position of the breasts far outweigh the presence of the scars, which fade significantly over time.

Is the nipple removed during a breast lift?

In a standard mastopexy, the nipple and areola are not removed; they remain attached to the underlying tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. They are simply shifted upward to a more aesthetic position. This technique is designed to preserve as much nipple sensation and breastfeeding capability as possible.