Breast surgery
Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy)
Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, aims to raise and firm sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple. This procedure restores a more youthful and proportional silhouette, whether performed alone or combined with implants.
Who it suits
- Individuals with sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, or rapid weight loss.
- Those whose nipples are positioned lower than the infra-mammary fold (under-bust line).
- Patients looking to improve breast shape, firmness, and overall body proportions.
Technique highlights
- Nipple Position Analysis: Grading sagging levels (A, B, or C) based on the nipple's relation to the infra-mammary fold.
- Versatile Incision Options: Choice of periareolar (around the nipple), vertical, or 'O' (inverted-T) incisions based on the degree of sagging.
- Customizable Results: Ability to combine lifting with breast reduction or augmentation (implants) to achieve the desired volume.
- Auto-Tissue Technique: Options to use the patient's own breast tissue to restore upper breast fullness without silicone.
Surgical steps
- Diagnosis: Assessment of the breast sagging level and nipple position relative to the chest wall.
- Anesthesia: Administration of general anesthesia for a comfortable and safe procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon makes the chosen incision (Periareolar, Vertical, or O-shaped) based on the severity of sagging.
- Reshaping & Positioning: Excess skin and tissue are removed, and the nipple-areola complex is moved to a higher, more youthful position.
- Volume Adjustment: If requested, implants are inserted or breast tissue is reduced to achieve the target size.
- Closing: Incisions are carefully sutured to minimize scarring and ensure proper healing.
Recovery & aftercare
- Days 1-3: Manage initial swelling and discomfort; light walking is encouraged.
- Day 10: Visit the clinic for stitch removal and a progress check.
- Weeks 2-4: Gradual return to normal daily routines; most patients feel back to normal by this stage.
- Month 1-3: Final shape settles; avoid heavy lifting or high-impact exercise until cleared by the surgeon.
Risks & things to consider
- General surgical risks include bleeding, infection, and potential scarring.
- Sensation in the nipple area may temporarily change or decrease after the procedure.
- The ability to breastfeed in the future may be affected depending on the surgical technique used.
- Asymmetry may occur and might require minor adjustments.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the surgery take and is a hospital stay necessary?
The surgery takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour under general anesthesia. Hospitalization is not required.
When are the stitches removed?
Stitches are typically removed about 10 days after the procedure.
What is the recovery timeline?
Most patients can return to daily activities within 2 to 4 days, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.
Can I lift my breasts without using implants?
If you have sagging breasts but are happy with the size, the surgeon can use your own breast tissue (Auto-tissue) to create volume without implants.
Cases in this area
Before & After gallery
Case photos show individual results. Outcomes vary with anatomy and aftercare.
Other procedures in this area
Adapted from ID Hospital official material · View source page