A breast lift (mastopexy) is an operation in which sagging breast tissue is lifted and reshaped and excess skin is removed. No volume is added or removed; the aim is to give the existing tissue a firmer, fuller and more symmetrical shape. During the procedure, the size of the areola can be reduced and a downward-pointing nipple can be brought to a forward-facing position.
Why do the breasts sag?
- Ageing: Skin elasticity and tissue support decrease
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The breast tissue fills and empties, and the skin stretches
- Significant weight loss: As volume decreases, the skin cannot recover at the same pace
- Genetic make-up: Weak tissue support may run in families
- Gravity: Its inevitable effect over time
A lift, a reduction or an augmentation?
These three operations solve different problems and are often planned together. What determines the distinction is whether breast volume is adequate relative to the person's body measurements:
| Situation | Suitable procedure |
|---|---|
| Adequate volume, sagging only | Breast lift (mastopexy) |
| Excessive volume, with sagging and physical complaints | Breast reduction |
| Low volume, no sagging | Breast augmentation (implant) |
| Low volume with sagging | Lift + implant (in the same session) |
A breast lift alone does not change the size of the breast. If an increase in volume is also desired, an implant can be added in the same session.
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. Using a technique chosen according to the degree of sagging, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is tightened and lifted, and the nipple and areola are moved to their new position. If the areola is large, it is reduced. The incision pattern, and therefore the scar, is directly proportional to the degree of sagging — with mild sagging it lies only around the areola; with advanced sagging it runs down from the areola and along the fold beneath the breast.
Recovery process
| Period | What to expect | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| First days | Oedema, swelling, bruising, a feeling of tightness in the skin | If there is a drain, it is removed within a few days |
| Week 2 | These effects largely subside and the incisions heal | Sleeping on your back if the doctor recommends it |
| After week 1 | Return to desk work and walking | The special bra is worn continuously |
| Until week 6 | — | Heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and sexual intercourse are postponed |
| Week 4 | Switching to a normal bra | With the doctor's approval |
| Months 3-6 | The breast reaches its final shape | Scar care |
Risks and permanence of the result
Possible issues include breast asymmetry, bleeding, loss of nipple sensation, delayed healing of the incisions, pain or swelling that lasts longer than expected, and raised or discoloured scars. Very rarely, a circulation problem in the nipple or areola may occur. Temporary effects related to anaesthesia, such as nausea and vomiting, may occur.
The operation corrects existing sagging; however, it does not stop ageing, gravity or tissue changes. The permanence of the result varies depending on the structure of the skin and breast tissue, the technique used, weight changes and hormonal processes such as pregnancy and breastfeeding. For this reason, postponing surgery is recommended for people who are planning a pregnancy; wearing a suitable supportive bra and controlling weight help preserve the result.
For other breast operations, you can visit the breast aesthetics page, and to determine the procedure that is right for you, you can contact the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is breast lift surgery?
A breast lift (mastopexy) is an operation in which sagging breast tissue is lifted, the nipple is moved to its new position and excess skin is removed. No volume is added or removed; the aim is to give the existing tissue a firmer, fuller shape. If an increase in volume is also desired, an implant can be added in the same session.
How do you know whether you need a breast lift or a breast reduction?
If breast volume is in proportion to the person's body measurements but there is sagging, a lift is appropriate; if the volume is excessive and causes complaints such as back and neck pain or shoulder grooves from bra straps, a reduction is appropriate. The two conditions often coexist and the operation is then planned as a combination. The distinction is made during the examination by assessing breast measurements and the position of the nipple.
What are the scars like after a breast lift?
The scar results from a technique that varies with the degree of sagging: with mild sagging it may be only around the nipple; with advanced sagging it may run down from the nipple and along the fold beneath the breast. The scars are permanent; they are prominent in the first months, then fade, and take about a year to mature. Scar formation also depends on the person's wound-healing characteristics.
Will the breasts sag again after surgery?
The operation corrects existing sagging but does not stop ageing, gravity or tissue changes. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant weight changes can cause the result to change over time. For this reason, postponing surgery is recommended for people who are planning a pregnancy. Wearing a suitable supportive bra and controlling weight help preserve the result.
How does recovery progress?
An overnight hospital stay is usually required. A special bra is worn continuously for a few weeks. Return to desk work is usually within 1-2 weeks. Movements that strain the arms and heavy lifting are postponed for about a month. It takes 3-6 months for the swelling to resolve and for the breast to reach its final shape.