Breast Lift
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reshapes sagging breast tissue and raises the nipple to a higher, more natural position, planned around the structure of your breasts.
Overview
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes and ageing can cause the breast tissue and skin to lose elasticity: the breast drops, the upper part looks empty and the nipple begins to point downwards.
In a breast lift, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped and the nipple–areola complex is moved upwards. If volume has also been lost, the procedure can be combined with implants or fat transfer.
Which technique is right for you is decided at the consultation, based on the degree of sagging, skin quality, breast volume and your expectations.
- A personalised technique chosen according to the degree of sagging
- Planning with or without implants, depending on your needs
- Detailed markings made while standing before surgery
- Structured follow-up and recovery care
What Is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
Mastopexy is the operation that corrects breast sagging, known medically as ptosis. The aim is not to make the breasts larger or smaller, but to give the existing tissue a higher, firmer shape that is in proportion to the chest wall.
During the operation, enlarged areolas can also be reduced and noticeable differences between the two breasts can be balanced. Because the breast tissue is repositioned together with its own blood supply, the natural structure of the breast is preserved.
Who Is a Breast Lift Suitable For?
- Women whose nipple sits at or below the fold beneath the breast
- Women whose breasts look deflated and lower after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Women with enlarged areolas or nipples that point downwards
- Women with a clear difference in sagging or shape between the two breasts
- People whose weight has been stable for the past few months and whose general health is suitable for surgery
If you are planning a pregnancy in the near future, it is important to mention this at the consultation: pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the shape of the breasts again. Smoking slows wound healing, so stopping before and after surgery is recommended.
Degree of Sagging and Choice of Technique
The degree of sagging is assessed by looking at where the nipple sits in relation to the fold beneath the breast. The technique is chosen according to this degree, and that choice also determines the extent of the scars.
Mild sagging: periareolar technique
The incision is made only around the areola. It is used when a small lift of the nipple and a reduction of the areola are enough.
Moderate sagging: vertical (lollipop) technique
A vertical incision running from the areola down to the breast fold is added to the incision around the areola. The lower part of the breast is narrowed to create a rounder, higher shape.
Severe sagging: inverted-T (anchor) technique
A horizontal incision along the breast fold is added to the vertical one. In marked sagging with a lot of excess skin, this technique gives the most scope for reshaping. Because the horizontal scar lies in the breast fold, it is usually not visible when standing.
With or Without Implants?
If you have enough breast volume, the lift is done using your own tissue: the breast tissue is reshaped and moved to the upper part of the breast. This gives a firmer appearance without implants.
If there is a marked loss of volume and you would like the upper part of the breast to look fuller, the lift can be combined with breast implants (augmentation-mastopexy). For some patients, transferring their own fat may also be an option for adding volume.
Whether the two procedures are done in one operation or in stages is decided by the surgeon after assessing the degree of sagging and the quality of the tissue.
How Is a Breast Lift Performed?
Before surgery, markings are made while you are standing so that the effect of gravity is taken into account; the new nipple position and the incision lines are decided at this stage.
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 2–3 hours, depending on the technique and any combined procedures. Excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted, and the incisions are closed in layers. A drain may be placed for a short time if needed.
The length of the hospital stay is planned according to the scope of the operation; most patients go home the same day or after one night.
Preparing for a Breast Lift
- Tell your physician about all medicines, supplements and previous operations
- Medicines and supplements with a blood-thinning effect are stopped for the recommended period beforehand, with your physician's knowledge
- Depending on your age and risk profile, breast imaging (ultrasound or mammography) may be requested before surgery
- Smoking can impair healing, so a break before and after surgery is recommended
- The supportive bra to be worn after surgery is bought in advance
- For patients travelling from out of town, accommodation is planned until the first check-up
Breast Lift Recovery Timeline
The timeline below is a general guide; healing speed varies with the person and the technique used.
- First days: Tightness and tenderness are normal; pain is managed with the medication your physician recommends, and a supportive bra is worn
- Week 1: The first check-up takes place, any drain is removed and the dressings are changed
- Weeks 1–2: Most people return to desk work and daily life; movements that strain the arms are avoided
- Weeks 4–6: The supportive bra is usually worn throughout this period; strenuous exercise is resumed with your physician’s approval
- Months 3–6: Swelling settles and the breasts approach their final shape
- Months 12–18: The scars mature, fade in colour and usually become much less noticeable
Possible Risks and Side Effects
As with any surgery, a breast lift carries risks, and these are discussed in detail at the consultation:
- Permanent scars; how visible they are depends on the technique and your tendency to scar
- Temporary, and rarely permanent, changes in nipple sensation
- Slight differences in shape or size between the two breasts
- Delayed wound healing, particularly where the incisions meet
- Bleeding, infection or fluid build-up
- Possible effects on the ability to breastfeed
Following the advice before surgery and attending the check-ups afterwards play an important part in reducing these risks.
Are the Results Permanent?
The results of a breast lift are long-lasting, but the ageing process does not stop. Over time, especially after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight changes, the breasts may sag again to some extent.
Keeping your weight stable, wearing a supportive bra during sport and avoiding smoking help the result last longer.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Breast Lift
The cost of a breast lift is calculated individually, based on the plan agreed at the consultation. The main factors are:
- The degree of sagging and the technique used
- Whether implants or fat transfer are added
- Other procedures performed in the same operation (for example a tummy tuck)
- Length of the operation, anaesthesia and hospital stay
- Post-operative check-ups and supportive garments
The information on this page is for general guidance only; diagnosis and treatment plans are decided individually after a physician's examination.
Treatment Process
Consultation and Assessment
The degree of sagging, breast volume, skin quality and your expectations are assessed, and whether an implant is needed is discussed.
Surgery
After markings are made while you are standing, the operation is performed under general anaesthesia using the planned technique.
Recovery and Follow-up
Advice on the supportive bra, dressings and activity is given, and your recovery is followed up at check-up appointments.
Who is it suitable for?
- Women with breast sagging after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- People whose nipples have dropped or point downwards
- Candidates with a stable weight and general health suitable for surgery
- Patients with realistic expectations who are able to follow the aftercare advice
Quick Facts
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Treatment Model: Single operation + follow-up visits
- Recovery: Most people return to desk work within 1–2 weeks
- Method: Mastopexy under general anaesthesia
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a breast lift leave scars?
Yes, every technique leaves a permanent scar; its length depends on the technique chosen for the degree of sagging. Over time the scars mature, fade in colour and usually become much less noticeable.
Does a breast lift affect breastfeeding?
Because the breast tissue is reshaped without being detached, breastfeeding may still be possible for many patients, but this cannot be guaranteed. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, please mention it at the consultation.
Should I have it before or after pregnancy?
If you are planning a pregnancy soon, it is usually advisable to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding, as these can change the shape of the breasts again.
Do I need an implant for a breast lift?
Not always. If you have enough breast volume, the lift is done with your own tissue. If there is a marked loss of volume and you want a fuller upper breast, an implant can be added.
When can I go back to work after a breast lift?
Most people return to desk work within 1–2 weeks. Strenuous exercise and movements that strain the arms usually have to wait 4–6 weeks; your physician will confirm the exact timing at your check-up.
What does the cost of a breast lift depend on?
It depends on the technique, whether implants or fat transfer are added, any combined procedures and the length of the hospital stay. The exact price is set after the consultation.