Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Regain your youthful contours and feel confident in your own skin with a breast uplift – a personalised procedure designed to lift, firm, and enhance the shape of your breasts

Breast lift, also known as ‘breast uplift’, and ‘mastopexy’, is a surgical procedure often considered by women after experiencing significant changes in their breasts after pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Over time, the breast’s shape and firmness can undergo significant changes, particularly an increase in droopiness. Apart from pregnancy, several other causes can affect the shape of the breasts, including changes in weight, genetics, and the natural ageing process can significantly affect the shape of breasts, thus diminishing their youthful appearance. The skin envelope overlying the breasts naturally diminishes in elasticity over the years. This gradually causes the breasts to droop and is often associated with the breasts taking on a pendular appearance. The reduction in volume will often cause the nipples to drop to a lower position with a possible increase in areola diameter. Large breasts tend to be more prone to sagging compared to smaller breasts, although any woman may experience these issues. The changes leading to breast atrophy are permanent in nature.

RELATED: Breast Lift FAQs – Q&A about Mastopexy Surgery

Fortunately, there is a robust solution in the form of a breast uplift which can dramatically restore a more lifted and youthful appearance to the female chest. In most breast lift procedures, the surgeon will perform an enhanced correction to compensate for the breasts falling into their natural position once the swelling from surgery settles down. The net effect from a breast lift is a more ‘perkier’ and prominent breast mound which has a more natural appearance in harmony with the structure of the chest.

Breast lift surgery, otherwise known as a mastopexy, lifts the breast and involves the removal of excess skin with tightening of the surrounding tissue. While a breast lift does not make the breasts any bigger in size, it does make the breasts feel firm and can appear more youthful. A breast reduction is identical in the types of incisions used, but in addition to the removal of skin, the surgeon removes underlying breast tissue to reduce the size of the breasts. Breast lift surgery is also commonly combined with breast augmentation for women who have both volume loss and drooping of the breasts.

If you want your breasts to look bigger, you may wish to undertake a breast augmentation, breast augmentation, and uplift or fat transfer to the breasts.

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping and lifting sagging breasts to give them a firmer, more youthful appearance. The surgery involves removing excess skin and tightening the remaining breast tissue to improve breast contour and projection.

Breast lift surgery can be performed alone or in combination with breast augmentation (implants) or breast reduction, depending on the patient’s desired outcome. It is a common procedure for women who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing, which can cause the breasts to lose elasticity and sag.

A breast lift can improve the appearance of the breasts, enhance self-confidence, and provide a more youthful and attractive contour. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications that should be discussed with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.

At the Centre for Surgery, we only show photos of breast lift patients who have given full written consent, allowing the use of their images on our website.

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RELATED: Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Before and After Photos

Undergoing breast lift surgery can provide a myriad of benefits that not only enhance the physical appearance of the breasts but also contribute significantly to an individual’s emotional well-being and quality of life. This procedure is meticulously designed to address various concerns related to the aesthetics and functionality of the breasts, offering a holistic improvement to the patient’s condition.

One of the primary advantages of a breast lift is its ability to rejuvenate sagging breasts. Over time, factors such as gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and natural ageing can lead to breasts that appear deflated and droopy. A breast lift surgically elevates these breasts, restoring them to a position where they appear fuller and feel firmer to the touch. This key benefit leads to a more youthful and vibrant appearance, with the breasts looking perkier and the upper body gaining a more sculpted and contoured silhouette.

Beyond cosmetic enhancement, a breast lift plays a crucial role in restoring symmetry to the chest area. Breasts are naturally asymmetrical to some degree, but for some individuals, the difference can be pronounced and aesthetically displeasing. Through the strategic reshaping and lifting of the breast tissue, this procedure can significantly improve chest symmetry, thereby enhancing overall body proportions and balance.

The functional benefits of a breast lift extend to the alleviation of medical issues associated with sagging breasts. Conditions such as skin irritation and rashes under the breast folds can be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. By lifting the breasts and reducing excess skin, patients often find relief from these symptoms, leading to an improvement in their daily comfort and health.

On an emotional and psychological level, the impact of a breast lift can be profound. Many patients report a significant boost in body confidence and self-esteem following their surgery. This renewed sense of self can lead to positive changes in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors.

Finally, the aesthetic improvements afforded by a breast lift can open up new possibilities in terms of fashion and clothing choices. Patients frequently express joy in feeling more comfortable and confident wearing bathing suits, form-fitting tops, and a broader range of clothing styles that they may have avoided before their surgery.

Several incision techniques can be used for this procedure, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

RELATED: Types of Breast Lift

The latter two techniques are mini lifts. These techniques will ensure you achieve the desired results while having minimal scarring. Your surgeon will determine the most appropriate method for you. Any prominent scarring can be addressed with several scar management techniques, including laser scar reduction, offered at Centre for Surgery.

 When deciding on which technique you should choose, you will need to think about several things, including:

• The size and shape of your breasts
• How much lift will be required
• How much skin elasticity do you have
• Your preferences

The breast lift procedure aims to make the breasts sit higher, increase their firmness, and look more youthful.

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a highly sought-after cosmetic procedure that addresses breast ptosis, a condition where the breasts lose their elasticity and begin to sag. This condition can affect women at various stages of life due to factors such as ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight loss. The underlying cause of breast ptosis is the overextension of the fibrous ligaments in the breasts, leading to the descent of glandular tissue on the chest wall.

The ideal candidates for breast lift surgery are women experiencing varying degrees of breast sagging, whether it be minor, moderate, or severe. This condition is not exclusive to one demographic and can start affecting women as early as their teenage years, especially those with larger breasts and inadequate skin quality. The size of the breasts plays a critical role in determining the onset of sagging; thus, women with normal to large-sized breasts may find themselves considering this procedure sooner rather than later.

Several factors and criteria need to be considered to determine if one is a good candidate for breast lift surgery, encompassing both physical and emotional health aspects. Here are the key characteristics of suitable candidates for this transformative procedure:

Experiencing Breast Sagging

Individuals noticing a significant level of sagging and a desire to restore the youthful position and firmness of their breasts are prime candidates. This includes dealing with issues like a lack of volume in the upper pole of the breasts, which can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of the chest.

Physical Health

Candidates should be in good overall health, free from any underlying medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery process. A strong physical foundation ensures that the body can handle the procedure and heal effectively.

Mental and Emotional Well-being

Good mental and emotional health is crucial for anyone considering breast lift surgery. Understanding the procedure, having realistic expectations, and being prepared for the recovery process contribute to a positive surgical experience and satisfaction with the outcomes.

Lifestyle Considerations

Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking for a designated period before and after the surgery are better positioned for a smooth recovery. Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.

Medication and Supplements

Candidates should avoid medications or supplements that could interfere with anaesthesia or the surgery’s success. This includes avoiding birth control pills, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain herbal supplements for at least two weeks before the procedure.

Preparing for a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, can help ensure that you have the best possible outcome from the surgery. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for your breast lift:

Schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon

During your consultation, your surgeon will examine your breasts, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine whether a breast lift is the right procedure for you. They will also explain the risks and benefits of the surgery and the potential recovery time.

Stop smoking

If you smoke, it is important to quit at least six weeks before your surgery. Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

Avoid taking certain medications

Certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners, can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with a list of medications to avoid before the surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first day or two after surgery. After a breast lift, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort and will not be able to drive or care for yourself for a few days.

Prepare your home for recovery

For several weeks after the surgery, you will need to rest and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities. Therefore, it’s important to arrange your home to make it comfortable and easily accessible during your recovery.

Prepare your wardrobe

You will be wearing a surgical bra for several weeks after the surgery, and your clothing options will be limited, so it’s important to have comfortable clothing that will fit over the bandages and surgical bra.

Follow all preoperative instructions provided by your surgeon

These instructions will include detailed information on preparing for your surgery and will be provided to you before your procedure.

Your breast lift surgery will be performed in our central London Baker Street facility as an outpatient, which means you will be admitted and discharged on the same day.

You will receive general anaesthesia, and the procedure typically takes 3 hours to perform.  The surgery may be longer if the breast lift is combined with additional procedures. Breast enlargement with uplift takes about 4 hours to perform. A general anaesthetic means you will be comfortably asleep for the procedure. 

Breast lift step by step:

STEP 1: For a full breast uplift, the surgeon will make an incision encircling the areola, which then goes vertically downward from the nipple and then runs horizontally across the breast crease. This pattern is known as the ‘anchor type’ incision.

STEP 2:  The surgeon then removes skin and fat according to the shape to be achieved.

STEP 3: The surgeon then repositions the nipple upwards into a more natural position that is more forward-facing.

STEP 4: Incision closure. Once the surgeon is satisfied with the overall shape, the incisions will then be closed using dissolvable sutures with special sutures to minimise visible scarring.

After the surgery, you will be able to notice the breasts appear fuller. However, the final results will not be visible until the swelling completely goes down.

Breast lift with implants

If you wish, you can combine breast augmentation and a breast lift and undergo a procedure known as an augmentation mastopexy. This is a good option for women who want to address both the lack of shape in the breasts and the level of sagging. Women with breast asymmetry who only require slight correction or who have been pregnant are considered good candidates for this procedure.

Breast lift surgery, like any other surgical procedure, involves a recovery period to ensure proper healing and recovery. During this time, you must take precautions to aid the healing process and avoid complications.

RELATED: Recovery after Breast Lift Surgery – Top Tips

Surgery Day

On the day of the surgery, you should plan for someone to take you home as you will not be able to drive after undergoing anaesthesia. After the procedure, your breasts will be dressed with gauze, and you will be given a surgical support bra to wear. Depending on the type of incisions used, you may have some drains placed to prevent excess fluid buildup.

First 24 hours

During the first few days following surgery, the pain will be at its most intense. It’s important to talk to your doctor about pain relief and have a course of painkillers prescribed, just in case. You may feel slightly nauseous as the anaesthesia wears off, which is normal. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon may be necessary to remove drains or bandages.

First week

The pain should significantly decrease, although there may still be bruising and swelling. You can start returning to light activities such as walking or shopping, but should avoid heavy lifting, bending over, and raising your arms above your head. If you work in an office or have a desk-based job, you may be able to return to work.

RELATED: How to Reduce Bruising and Swelling after Breast Lift Surgery

The First Month and On-Wards

After a month, you should be able to return to your regular daily routine, with the exception of weight lifting and chest-demanding activities. You should continue wearing your surgical bra until your surgeon advises otherwise. You can start wearing an underwire bra around six weeks after surgery. At six months, your breasts should have taken their new shape, and scarring should have diminished completely.

Precautions to Take During Recovery

During the recovery period, there are several precautions that you should take, including:

• Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least 4-6 weeks
• Refraining from driving for at least a week following surgery
• Avoiding sleeping on your stomach
• Maintaining good hygiene around the surgical site
• Following your surgeon’s instructions for pain management
• Wearing your surgical bra as recommended
• Limiting your exposure to sunlight to minimize scarring
• Keeping yourself hydrated

Undergoing a breast lift procedure is a transformative journey that not only reshapes and lifts the breasts but also revitalises one’s self-image and confidence. Initially, post-surgery, patients may experience a sensation of tightness around the breasts, accompanied by their placement being higher on the chest than anticipated. This immediate aftermath is a normal part of the healing process, as the body begins to adapt to the changes and starts its recovery.

As the weeks and months progress, the true essence of the breast lift results starts to unfold. The initial tightness gradually diminishes, and the swelling that contributes to the elevated appearance of the breasts begins to subside. This period of adjustment is crucial, as it allows the breasts to naturally settle into their new shape and position. The transformation during this time is significant, transitioning from the initial post-operative appearance to the final outcome that was envisioned before the surgery.

The culmination of this healing process reveals the full benefits of the breast lift procedure. Patients can expect to see and feel breasts that are perkier and more youthful-looking, having achieved the intended shape and position that looks and feels natural. This settling phase is vital, as it ensures that the breasts align harmoniously with the body’s overall proportions, providing a balanced and aesthetically pleasing silhouette.

Achieving the final results of a breast lift surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and proper care. It is essential for patients to closely follow their surgeon’s aftercare instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support the healing process. This dedicated approach helps in optimising the outcomes, ensuring that the breasts not only look visually appealing but also feel natural to the touch.

Breast lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and potential complications. These risks and complications can vary depending on the patient’s age, general health, and the type of breast lift procedure performed.

Some of the possible risks and complications of breast lift surgery include:

1. Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site, leading to delayed healing, scarring, and even implant removal.
2. Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during or after the surgery and may require blood transfusion or re-operation.
3. Scarring: Any incision will leave a scar, and breast lift surgery is no exception. The location, length, and severity of the scar depend on the technique used and individual factors such as skin type and healing abilities.
4. Loss of nipple sensation: Nipple sensation loss may occur due to damage to the nerves that supply the nipple.
5. Asymmetry: There may be a difference in the size, shape, or position of the breasts after surgery.
6. Poor wound healing: Wound separation or delayed healing can occur, which may lead to a need for revision surgery or prolonged healing.
7. Anaesthesia risks: General anaesthesia carries some inherent risks, including allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, and cardiovascular complications.
8. Capsular contracture: Implants used during breast lift surgery may cause capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant hardens, distorting the breast shape and feel.
9. Implant rupture or leakage: Implants used during breast lift surgery may rupture or leak, causing deformity or discomfort.
10. Revision surgery: Sometimes, further surgery may be required to correct unsatisfactory results or address complications.

There are several factors that will determine the overall cost of your breast lift procedure, and the final quotation will be given after your face-to-face consultation with your plastic surgeon.

• Mini uplift or full uplift
• Breast lift alone or combined with breast implants (known as an augmentation-mastopexy)
• Previous breast surgery

Why not call 0207 993 4849 and speak to one of our expert patient coordinators, who may be able to give you a rough costing before your procedure?

Remember that price should never be the determining factor when choosing your provider. We feel that safety and quality of service should be your number one priority and instil in you the confidence that our team will look after you before, during, and after your procedure to the best of their ability.

Centre for Surgery is fully approved to offer breast lift finance via our specialist finance partner, Chrysalis Finance.

You no longer need to use your savings to pay for your treatment – you can apply to spread the cost of your procedure with Chrysalis Finance using their simple 1,2,3 application to pay for it.

Please don’t wait until you have enough money for your treatment. Apply today and (subject to status) pay for your procedure easily in monthly instalments, using one of their payment options.

Chrysalis Finance is the only ethical provider that focuses solely on the provision of specialist financing for medical procedures.

While breast lift surgery is effective alone for rejuvenating the appearance of sagging breasts, it can be combined with other procedures to address a broader range of aesthetic concerns. These complementary procedures can significantly enhance the overall outcome, providing more comprehensive improvements in breast shape, size, and contour.

Breast Lift and Reduction

For patients grappling with the challenges of disproportionately large and heavy breasts, a combination of breast reduction and lift offers a compelling solution. Breast reduction surgery focuses on removing excess breast tissue, skin, and fat to alleviate discomfort and achieve a breast size in harmony with the patient’s body frame. When paired with a breast lift, the breasts are reduced in size and raised and reshaped, resulting in a more youthful and uplifted appearance. This dual approach addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns, enhancing physical comfort and self-esteem.

Breast Lift and Augmentation

Breast augmentation, through the insertion of implants beneath the breast tissue, aims to increase the volume and enhance the projection of the breasts. When combined with a breast lift, this procedure caters to women seeking a significant enhancement in both the size and the perkiness of their breasts. The lift component ensures that the augmented breasts are fuller and positioned higher on the chest, creating a more desirable and youthful silhouette. This combination is particularly beneficial for restoring breast volume lost due to ageing, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations.

Breast Lift and Fat Transfer

Fat transfer to the breasts offers an alternative to implants for those seeking augmentation. By harvesting fat from one area of the body and injecting it into the breasts, this procedure provides a natural way to enhance breast size and shape. When coupled with a breast lift, fat transfer can add subtle volume while elevating sagging breasts, achieving a rejuvenated breast profile that feels and looks natural. This approach is ideal for patients desiring a modest increase in breast size alongside the lifting effect.

Hybrid Breast Augmentation

For those seeking a more pronounced increase in breast volume with a natural aesthetic, hybrid breast augmentation alongside a breast lift presents an advanced option. This technique uses both implants for volume and projection and fat transfer to soften and contour the breast shape. The addition of a breast lift ensures that the breasts are not only larger but also beautifully positioned and shaped. This comprehensive strategy allows customised enhancements tailored to each patient’s unique desires and anatomy.

Centre for Surgery is a renowned cosmetic surgery clinic that offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures, including breast lift surgery. There are several reasons why you might choose Centre for Surgery for your breast lift procedure:

• Highly skilled surgeons: Our team of experienced plastic surgeons are highly skilled and have years of experience in performing breast lift surgery. They use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible results for each patient.
• State-of-the-art facilities: Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care. We are also registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which means we meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
• Personalised care: We believe that every patient is unique and deserves personalised care. We take the time to understand your goals and concerns and work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
• Comprehensive aftercare: We provide comprehensive aftercare to ensure that you have a smooth and comfortable recovery. Our postoperative support team is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have during your recovery.
• Competitive pricing: We believe that cosmetic surgery should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer competitive pricing for our breast lift surgery procedures.
• Excellent patient satisfaction: We have a high level of patient satisfaction, with many of our patients recommending us to friends and family. We are proud to have a reputation for delivering excellent results and high-quality care.

All our surgeons are fully qualified and experienced plastic surgeons with the skill to perform all types of aesthetic breast surgery.

What is included in my breast lift treatment package?

• As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the mastopexy procedure is right for you
• Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
• Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
• 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
• Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
• In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for your breast uplift procedure
• Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care are described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC with regular telephone and face-to-face checks.

RealSelf Top Doctors for Breast Lift Surgery

RealSelf’s top doctor status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community.  This status is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction (from RealSelf reviews), getting excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activities. RealSelf’s top doctors are rated among the best breast surgeons in the UK.

At Centre for Surgery, we understand that considering a breast lift can be a big decision. That’s why we recommend booking a consultation with one of our expert plastic surgeons to discuss whether the procedure is right for you. During the consultation, your surgeon will carefully review your medical history and any medications you are taking, as well as conduct a comprehensive physical examination. They will also take the time to understand your expectations and goals for the procedure.

During the consultation, the full range of treatment options for breast lift surgery will be discussed, including the option to combine breast augmentation with the mastopexy procedure. If you choose to increase volume and reshape your breasts, your surgeon will show you a range of implant sizes and shapes, including the option of shaped or teardrop breast implants for a more natural appearance. Fat grafting to the breasts is also an option for women who prefer not to use silicone implants. Your surgeon may also use computer 3D imaging to help you visualise how you could look after the breast lift procedure.

Once you have decided to proceed with breast lift surgery, your surgeon will create a personalised treatment plan that takes into account your individual needs and goals. Throughout the process, your dedicated patient coordinator will be on hand to provide support and guidance, ensuring a smooth patient journey.

At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons are renowned for their artistry and dedication to helping women achieve natural and beautiful breasts. They believe that the surgeon-patient relationship is key to a successful outcome and will take the time to understand your personal preferences and goals fully. If necessary, they may recommend a second follow-up consultation to ensure that your questions are answered and that you are entirely comfortable with your decision. We are committed to providing the safest and most natural-looking breast implant procedures in London, the southeast, and the UK.