What is it?
The breast lift - mastopexy - is a procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts.
What does it involve?
A general anaesthetic, reducing the skin envelope and reshaping the breast tissue.
Will it leave scarring?
Techniques vary, but all will leave a scar around the nipple, one from the nipple to the bottom of the breast, and sometimes one in the fold underneath the breast as well. The choice of technique will be determined by the extent of sagging and the size of the breasts.
What happens afterwards?
It’s not usually a painful procedure, but most patients will stay in hospital overnight. Tapes are applied to help support the breasts and a sports bra should be worn night and day for the first 2 weeks. After that, the tapes are removed 10-12 days later.
When will I be up and about?
Patients can return to normal day to day activities within 2-3 weeks, but impact exercises are best left for at least a month.
What are the risks?
Complications following breast uplifts are unusual but there are still risks:
- Infection and bleeding is uncommon and whilst nipple sensation can change, it will usually settle.
- Scars can stretch and become thicker, but usually settle well and are placed within the bra, so they won’t be visible. Secondary adjustments are sometimes required after the operation to optimise scars
- Because the skin is pulled tight, wound healing problems can occur
- Breast feeding may be affected but, as this can recreate droop, surgery is best left until after you’ve finished having children anyway
- Most women always have some degree of asymmetry and this may not be corrected
Read our glossary of surgical terms
You can find more information at www.douglasmcgeorge.com/ and www.baaps.org.uk/
