The breast is a vital feature for many women. A well-shaped breast can significantly enhance confidence and self-esteem.
Breast sagging (ptosis) can occur due to natural changes like aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and gravity, as well as other factors affecting breast tissue.
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a common plastic surgery procedure that restores sagging and loose skin. For mild ptosis, a periareolar incision is used. More significant sagging requires larger incisions.
Incision Types
- Periareolar incision
- Periareolar with vertical incision (circumvertical)
- Periareolar with J-shaped or inverted-T incision
If the breasts are small, breast lift is often combined with augmentation. The procedure does not affect nipple sensation, future pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Breast lift can be performed with or without implants depending on patient needs and surgeon recommendation.
Ideal Candidates
- Women with breast sagging and loss of upper pole volume
- Those whose nipples sit below the inframammary fold
- Women who previously had breast implants and now require lifting
- Those with downward-pointing nipples or stretched skin and enlarged areolas
It is crucial to stop smoking well before and after surgery. Candidates should be in good health and have realistic expectations. Some medications may need to be discontinued before surgery under medical guidance.
Consultation
Prior to surgery, a consultation is held to discuss expectations, surgical options, risks, and concerns. Besides routine pre-op tests, breast imaging (ultrasound or mammogram) is also recommended based on age.
Surgery Description
The patient is placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions to remove excess skin and reposition the breast tissue, lifting the nipple-areola complex to an optimal position and shape. Incision patterns depend on the degree of ptosis.
Postoperative Instructions
- Patients are usually discharged the same day.
- A special support bra should be worn for one month.
- Mild pain is common and manageable with painkillers.
- Use of dissolvable stitches – no removal required.
- Slight burning sensation around incisions fades within days.
- Return to work in about one week; full activities by 20 days.
Your surgeon will provide personalized care instructions, medication guidelines, and physical activity restrictions for a smooth recovery.
Possible Complications
As with any procedure, breast lift carries risks, though most patients recover safely. Potential complications include:
- Poor wound healing or incision breakdown
- Hypertrophic scarring or infection
- Fat necrosis
- Hematoma or bleeding
- Breast shape irregularities or contour issues
- Nipple numbness – temporary or permanent (5–10%)
- Partial or total nipple loss
- Impaired breastfeeding ability (up to 30%, especially in larger breasts)
- General surgical risks such as deep vein thrombosis or cardiopulmonary events
Though rare, it’s important to choose an experienced surgeon and adhere to post-op instructions to reduce risk.
References
- Gentile P., et al. (2025). Periareolar Mastopexy with Breast Implants and Fat Grafting. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00266-025-05116-z - Tanas Y., Tanas J. (2025). Comparative Outcomes of Superomedial and Inferior Pedicles in Breast Reduction and Mastopexy: A Meta-Analysis of 5123 Breasts. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00266-024-04389-0 - Duarte G., et al. (2025). Internal Breast Lift: A New Method for Performing Internal Mastopexy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open.
https://journals.lww.com/prsgo/fulltext/2025/01000/internal_breast_lift__a_new_method_for_performing.82.aspx
