What is a breast lift?

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and firms the breast. Excess skin is removed to tighten the surrounding tissue and to reshape and support the new breast contour. The internal breast tissue is usually reshaped as well. A breast lift can also reduce the size of the areola, which can be enlarged over time.

A breast lift may be performed on patients with sagging breasts or patients who have stretched their skin around the breast area as a result of having breast implants.

This procedure is not recommended for patients who are breastfeeding, heavy smokers and overweight patients.

What happens during a breast lift surgery?

Prior to the breast lift procedure, your plastic surgeon will have a consultation with you to discuss your goals, options and the details of your breast lift procedure. It is wise to have a mammogram after your initial consultation with your plastic surgeon to get an indicator of your breast’s health.

There are different techniques in which a breast lift procedure may be performed. A standard breast lift procedure involves making an incision at the bottom of the breast, which extends up to the nipple. This technique can leave visible scarring. Another technique is to make an incision at the nipple, then a patch of skin is removed and the rest of the skin is re-attached which creates a firmer look. This technique leaves less visible scarring. The incision may also be made at the nipple and extend down the breast which also incurs less scarring when compared to a standard breast lift. You may discuss these options with your plastic surgeon to decide which is the best technique for you. Once all of the details have been agreed upon and confirmed, a date for the breast lift procedure is set.

A general anesthetic is usually administered before the procedure. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the surgeon will make an incision to remove the excess tissue, and re-position the nipple. The incision will then be closed with sutures.

A breast lift procedure usually takes around 2-3 hours. However, for more complex cases such as a breast lift with breast implants, it may take longer. Patients may experience some swelling and bruise immediately after the surgery. Patients will usually spend a night in the hospital, and may have surgical drains to remove fluid from the surgical site.

Patients are advised to avoid placing pressure around the breast area or get the wounds wet during the first-week post-procedure. For the first week, patients may have bandages around the breasts. It is recommended that exercise and heavy lifting is avoided for a minimum of 6-weeks (or as advised by your plastic surgeon). It is also recommended that you wear a comfortable sports bra for the first month. These sports bras should not be tight fitting in any way.

How do I find the right plastic, surgeon?

The best way is to speak to a few surgeons and find out which surgeon you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable cosmetic surgeons. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the surgeon you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practicing anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female surgeon, or someone who has more experience. Many mothers choose to complete this procure as part of a combination with other procedures designed to get your body looking like it did before the baby.  This is often referred to as makeover for mothers or a mummy makeover.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your plastic surgeon and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your plastic surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your specialist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your plastic surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your physician / surgeon as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your physician / surgeon about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.