Breast Lift | Mastopexy
A mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, is a surgical procedure performed to lift and reshape the breasts. It is designed to address issues such as sagging breasts, nipple position, and breast asymmetry, resulting from factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or genetics.
Breast uplift surgery (mastopexy)
Breast uplift surgery (mastopexy) aims to address sagging of the breast that can occur as a result of ageing, breastfeeding or having had breast implants. All of these processes cause elongation of the supportive ligaments of the breast that results in breast droop (ptosis).
Mastopexy in women without breast implants
Mastopexy aims to redistribute the breast tissue and reduce the stretched breast skin to give the breast a more youthful appearance. In some cases, this may mean using mastopexy techniques in combination with a breast implant (mastopexy augmentation) in order to provide a scaffold for shaping the breast. The decision making for mastopexy is highly personalized and more than one consultation may be required to find the plan that is right for you.
Mastopexy in women with breast implants
Over the course of time, either the breast tissue, or, the implants themselves start to descend leading to a characteric breast shape. Rejuvenation of the breast involves revision of the implant as well as a mastopexy procedure. Again, the decision is highly personalised and finding the right type of uplift procedure will take into consideration all the different elements of what causes breast droop.
The benefits of a breast lift / mastopexy
A breast lift, or mastopexy, offers several benefits to individuals seeking to improve the appearance of their breasts. These benefits include:
Restored Breast Firmness and Shape
Over time, breasts can lose their firmness and shape due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and aging. A breast lift can effectively address sagging breasts by removing excess skin, tightening the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipples and areolas. This results in breasts that appear firmer, lifted, and more youthful.
Improved Breast Symmetry
Breast asymmetry, where one breast is lower or differently shaped than the other, can be a source of self-consciousness for many individuals. A breast lift can help improve breast symmetry by reshaping and repositioning the breasts to achieve a more balanced and harmonious appearance.
Enhanced Breast Contour
A breast lift can improve the overall contour and silhouette of the breasts. By removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue, the procedure can create a more aesthetically pleasing breast shape. This can lead to increased confidence and satisfaction with one’s appearance.
Rejuvenated Nipple and Areola Position
With sagging breasts, the nipples and areolas may descend to a lower position on the breasts. A breast lift can elevate and reposition the nipples and areolas to a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing location. This can help restore a more proportional and natural look to the breasts.
Improved Clothing Fit and Wardrobe Options
Many individuals with sagging breasts find it challenging to find clothing that fits well and flatters their figure. By lifting and reshaping the breasts, a breast lift can improve the fit of clothing, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in a wider range of clothing styles.
Boost in Self-Confidence and Body Image
The improvements achieved through a breast lift often lead to an increase in self-confidence and positive body image. Individuals who feel dissatisfied or self-conscious about sagging breasts may experience a significant boost in self-esteem after undergoing a breast lift. This can have a positive impact on various aspects of life, including personal relationships, social interactions, and overall well-being.
Anaesthetic
General anaesthetic
Surgery Time
2-3 Hours
Drains
No
Recovery garments
Bra
Hospital stay
1 night
Follow-up
1 week and 2 weeks after discharge
Return to desk-based work
1-2 weeks
Return to driving
4 weeks
Return to sport
6 weeks
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Breast Lift surgery
It is important to note that while a breast lift can provide significant aesthetic improvements, it is essential for individuals to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and limitations of the procedure. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is crucial for a thorough evaluation, discussion of goals and expectations, and making an informed decision about whether a breast lift is the right option for achieving one’s desired breast appearance.
Breast lift surgery
Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure performed to lift and reshape the breasts. The specific technique used can vary depending on the patient’s unique needs and desired outcome. Here is a general overview of how a breast lift surgery is typically performed:
Anesthesia
The procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. The options include general anesthesia, which puts the patient to sleep throughout the surgery, or intravenous sedation combined with local anesthesia, which keeps the patient relaxed and pain-free during the procedure.
Incision Placement
The surgeon will determine the appropriate incision pattern based on factors such as the degree of sagging, breast size, and the desired outcome. Common incision options include:
- Anchor Incision: This incision pattern is commonly used for more extensive breast lifts. It involves three incisions: around the areola, vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.
- Lollipop Incision: This incision pattern involves two incisions: around the areola and vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease.
- Donut Incision: Also known as a periareolar incision, this incision is made solely around the outer edge of the areola.
Reshaping the breasts
After making the incisions, the surgeon will remove excess skin and reshape the breast tissue to lift and reshape the breasts. The underlying breast tissue may be tightened and repositioned to achieve a more youthful appearance. If the areolas have become enlarged, they can be reduced in size during this step as well.
Repositioning the Nipples and Areolas
As part of the breast lift, the surgeon will reposition the nipples and areolas to a higher, more youthful location on the breasts. This involves detaching the nipples from the surrounding tissue and moving them to the desired position.
Closing the Incisions
Once the desired reshaping and repositioning are achieved, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. The incisions are typically closed in multiple layers to provide support and minimize scarring.
Post-operative Care
After the surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery area, where they are monitored before being released to go home. The surgeon provides instructions for post-operative care, including medication, wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
Post-operative Care & Recovery
Recovery time can vary, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, following the surgeon’s guidelines. It is essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss individual goals, understand the surgical process, and have realistic expectations about the results and recovery.
Breast Lift Surgeon London
Mr Khan is a Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon in Central London.
He is on the GMC specialist register for Plastic Surgery and is a fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of England, a member of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS).
Mr Khan is a leading plastic surgeon in London and can guide you through the process and offer the best recommendations, surgery and aftercare to give you peace of mind.
Book an Appointment
If you’re interested in Breast lift surgery, please get in touch. The first step is to make contact to book a consultation where we can discuss the different options and for you to ask questions about the surgery.
