Breast lift

What is mastopexy surgery?

Mastopexy surgery, commonly known as a breast uplift, is an operation to remove extra loose skin from the breasts, and to lift and reshape them, to make them look more youthful.

Why have a breast uplift?

Breasts naturally droop with age, after pregnancy and breastfeeding, and after weight loss. This is because the skin and fibrous ligaments in the breast become stretched so the breast tissue is not supported. It is not possible to recreate the fibrous support of the breasts, but they can be reshaped by removing extra skin, remodeling the breast tissue and moving the nipples up to the best position on the new breasts. Other options are to reduce the size of the areola (the darker skin around the nipple), or to have the breasts enlarged at the same time.

Having a breast uplift can make the breasts firmer and higher. After a breast uplift you may be more comfortable socially and personally. The best results are with women with small, saggy breasts, but breasts of any size can be lifted.The results of a breast uplift may not last as long with heavy breasts.

What will happen before my operation?

You will meet your surgeon to talk about why you want surgery and what you want. The surgeon will make a note of any illnesses you have or have had in the past. They will also make a record of any medication you are on, including herbal remedies and medicines that are not prescribed by your doctor. Your surgeon will examine your breasts, and may take some photographs for your medical records. They will ask you if you want to have someone with you during the examination, and ask you to sign a consent form for taking, storing and using the photographs. The surgeon will measure your height and weight to make sure that it is safe to do an operation. If you are overweight, or planning to become pregnant, your surgeon may suggest delaying your operation.

How is the surgery performed?

There are different types of uplift. The best type of uplift for you depends on your breast size and the result you want. Different types of uplift make different scars on the breasts. Whichever type of uplift you choose, the scars should not be visible when you wear normal clothing, bras and bikini tops.The most common type of uplift, with a cut around your areola and vertically under your breast, is shown below. Sometimes there is a cut in the crease under the breast to make an anchor shape. Extra skin is removed from underneath the breast, the breast is reshaped into a tighter cone and the nipples are moved to a higher level. The size of the areola can also be reduced.

If your breasts are small as well as droopy, you can have them enlarged with silicone implants. Having breast implants is the only way to significantly increase fullness above the nipples, but their weight can make the breast droop again over time.

What to expect after the operation?

Breast-uplift surgery is usually carried out under a general anesthetic (so you would be asleep) or a regional anesthetic (where the whole area is numbed with injections). The operation usually takes about 90 minutes. You might be given antibiotics to keep the wound clean. Also, you may have drainage tubes in the breast to drain away any fluid or blood. These tubes will be taken out when the fluid or blood has stopped draining, usually before you go home. You might go home the same day, or stay in hospital overnight. If you do go home on the same day, a responsible adult should stay with you for the night. Your chest will feel tight and your breasts and the ribs below your breasts will be sore. Simple painkillers should be enough to keep you comfortable.

How will the dressings be ?

You will have some dressings on your breasts. You will need to wear a well-fitting bra with no underwiring for a few weeks after the operation.

How will the recovery be ?

You will be out of bed on the same day as your surgery, and doing light activities after two weeks. You should be back to normal exercise in six weeks. Most patients take at least two weeks off work after the operation, depending on their job. Your breasts will be sore and swollen for a few weeks after the operation. Do not lift heavy things for several weeks, and avoid sex for at least two weeks. With all activities, start gently. Do not drive until you feel safe and are comfortable wearing a seatbelt.