Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Breast drooping or breast sagging is a common problem following pregnancies or weight loss, or as a result of the ageing process.  Sagging occurs when the skin over the breasts stretches; as a result, the breasts have a loss of shape and a less youthful appearance.
 
A breast lift raises and reshapes the breasts, leaving them looking fuller, firmer and more pert.  Only the excess skin is removed and the nipples are then repositioned in a new, higher location.

Breast Lift Procedure

Many techniques are used but the most common uses an “anchor-shaped” incision that follows the natural contour of the breast.  Excess skin is removed and the nipples are moved to a new, higher location.  The skin from both sides of the breast is then brought down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast.  The skin is sutured in a vertical line extending downwards from the nipple and along the lower crease of the breast.  Breast lift surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic and the operation usually lasts approximately two hours.  An overnight stay in hospital is required.

Breast Lift Recovery

Most patients are up and about in a day or two, but it is not advisable to return to work for at least one to two weeks.  The breasts will be bruised and swollen after this operation and may take two to three weeks to settle down.  It is advisable to wear a support bra for four to six weeks while you gradually resume normal routines and activities.

How long will the effects last?

A breast lift will not make your breasts firm forever.  The natural effects of gravity, pregnancy, ageing and weight fluctuations will eventually alter the shape and firmness of the breasts.  Good support with a comfortable bra - especially during exercise - is recommended.  Breast lift surgery will not significantly alter the size of your breasts, but some patients may choose to have a breast enlargement at the same time.  This option has to be discussed in detail with the surgeon as it may be more difficult to predict the shape of the breasts.

Breast Lift Risks

With the use of the right technique, proper planning and meticulous surgery, risks are rare but may include bleeding, haematoma, infection, fat necrosis, scarring, wound healing problems, loss of nipple sensation, minor asymmetry between breasts, and an inability to breastfeed.  The scars will be noticeable and may remain lumpy and red for several months, but will gradually become less obvious and fade to pale lines over a 12-month period.   Poor healing and wider scars are more common in smokers.  The operation should not affect your ability to breastfeed since the milk ducts are not interfered with by the surgery.

Mr Prinsloo will explain how the possible risks will apply to you.

Due to the Data Protection Act etc. our supply of pre/post operative pictures is currently limited.