Breast Lift : what is it?
Mastopexy is the operation in which sagging breast tissue and the nipple are moved to a higher position and excess skin is removed. Time, pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight changes reduce the elasticity of the skin, and the tissue moves downwards. A lift does not add volume; it repositions the volume you already have. If you want both lift and fullness, an implant can be added in the same session.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- The nipple has descended below the inframammary fold
- Emptied and sagging breasts after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Discomfort with how the breasts look without a bra
- Weight that has been stable for some time
- No pregnancy planned in the near future (if there is, the operation is best postponed)
How is it performed?
Three scar patterns are used depending on the degree of sagging: around the areola only (periareolar), a vertical scar running down from the areola (lollipop), or the addition of a horizontal scar in the inframammary fold (inverted T). The more the sagging, the more skin must be removed and the longer the scar.
The nipple and areola are moved upwards with their blood and nerve supply preserved, the breast tissue is reshaped internally to give fullness to the upper pole, and excess skin is removed.
With a lift alone there may be some emptiness at the upper pole; if fullness there is wanted, an implant is added in the same session. This is called an augmentation-mastopexy.
Recovery
The timeline below shows an average course. Your personal recovery depends on your age, skin quality, smoking and the extent of the operation.
There is tightness and moderate pain. A sports bra is fitted on the operating table and worn continuously.
Sutures are usually dissolvable. The arms are not strained and nothing heavy is lifted. Swelling and bruising reduce noticeably during this week.
The sports bra continues for up to 6 weeks. Scars are pink and obvious in this period; that is normal. Scar care with silicone tape or gel begins after week 3.
The breasts settle and the shape becomes definite. Scars fade over the first year and reach their final appearance at 12 – 18 months. Sun protection directly affects scar quality.
Possible risks
Every surgical procedure carries risk. Knowing them is not meant to frighten you but to let you decide with full awareness. Each point is discussed individually at your consultation.
- Scarring (unavoidable; its quality depends on your skin and aftercare)
- Temporary or permanent change in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry or a difference in nipple position
- Delayed wound healing, particularly in smokers
- Recurrence of sagging over time
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. The method that may apply to you, the expected outcome and the risks can only be determined after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Will there be scars?
Yes, a lift leaves scars. Their length depends on how much skin is removed. Well cared-for scars fade considerably by the end of the first year.
Will I be able to breastfeed?
Because the connection between the nipple and the milk ducts is preserved, breastfeeding is possible for most patients, though it cannot be guaranteed.
Can a lift and augmentation be done together?
Yes, this is a common combination. Where sagging is severe, the surgeon may advise doing the two operations in separate sessions.
Will the breasts sag again?
Gravity and time continue to act. Keeping your weight stable and wearing supportive bras extends how long the result lasts.
