Breast Lift
A surgical procedure that reshapes sagging breasts and raises the nipple and areola for a more balanced chest contour.
What is a breast lift?
A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is an operation that addresses breast sagging, which usually follows pregnancy and breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or ageing and loss of skin elasticity. In these cases the breast may descend, the nipple may point downwards and the areola may widen, so the chest looks less full in its upper part.
During the operation the doctor removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue and raises the nipple and areola to a higher position, reducing the areola size when needed. The incision type depends on the degree of sagging: it may be around the areola only, around the areola with a vertical line, or anchor-shaped, also running along the fold beneath the breast in cases of marked sagging.
A breast lift alone does not noticeably increase breast size, so it may be combined with augmentation using implants or fat transfer for those wanting more fullness, or with a reduction for those with large breasts. The doctor assesses each case individually to choose the right technique and clearly explains the expected scars before surgery.
Do you feel your breasts have changed after pregnancy or weight loss?
Book a consultation so the doctor can assess the degree of sagging, breast size and skin quality, and explain the suitable option, the nature of the scars and recovery.
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After pregnancy and breastfeeding
Women whose breasts have lost shape and fullness after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
After weight loss
Those with loose breast skin after significant weight loss, whose weight is now stable.
A low nipple position
When the nipple sits at or below the fold beneath the breast, or points downwards.
Uneven breasts
Some cases where the breasts differ in level or shape, after assessment.
Who it does not suit for now
Surgery is usually advised to be postponed for those planning a pregnancy soon or significant weight loss, and it is not advised for smokers unable to stop temporarily, those with uncontrolled medical conditions or unrealistic expectations.
Breast lift steps
Consultation and assessment
The doctor examines the degree of sagging, breast size, nipple position and skin quality, and discusses your size wishes and whether to combine other procedures.
Preparation
Laboratory tests, breast imaging according to age and medical history, and stopping smoking and certain medicines beforehand as the doctor instructs.
The procedure
Under general anaesthesia the doctor makes the planned incisions, reshapes the tissue, raises the nipple and areola, removes excess skin, then closes the incisions in layers.
Aftercare
Wearing a supportive surgical bra, pain relief as prescribed, wound care and regular follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Recovery stages after a breast lift
Swelling, bruising and chest discomfort managed with medication, while avoiding raising the arms overhead or lifting heavy objects.
Many women return to light desk work, and non-dissolvable stitches are usually removed around this time.
A gradual return to exercise and strenuous activity is usually possible with the doctor’s approval.
The breast shape settles gradually and scars fade slowly over time, to a degree that varies from person to person.
Possible risks and complications
A breast lift is relatively major surgery, and the doctor explains its risks in detail before you decide.
- Bleeding, haematoma or fluid collection (seroma)
- Infection or delayed wound healing, especially where incisions meet
- General anaesthesia risks and blood clots
- Asymmetry of the breasts or nipples
- Visible scars, which may be wide or raised in some people
- Changes in nipple sensation, a possible effect on breastfeeding, and rarely problems with nipple blood supply
- Some sagging returning over time, or the need for a revision procedure
Frequently asked questions about breast lift
Does a breast lift leave scars?
Can I breastfeed after the operation?
Do I need implants with the lift?
How long do breast lift results last?
Should I wait until I have finished having children?
When can I return to work?
Related services
Start with a consultation to assess your case
The doctor assesses each case individually to decide whether a breast lift alone is suitable or whether combining it with another procedure is preferable, and explains the scars, recovery and risks openly.