MASTOPEXY (BREAST LIFT)

The term Mastopexy refers to the art of sculpting and shaping breast tissue and improving its position with different surgical techniques, achieving an anatomical, functional, and aesthetic result. Mastopexy techniques can be performed with or without the use of breast implants.

Over the years, genetic factors and, in some cases, pregnancy and breastfeeding have their effect on the mammary gland.

Consultation Process

During your consultation I will assess the degree of breast drooping (ptosis), skin elasticity, and overall breast volume to determine the most appropriate technique. We will also discuss whether adding a breast implant alongside the lift is right for you — a common combination for patients who have lost volume after breastfeeding. I will show you representative before and after photos and explain what a realistic result looks like for your anatomy.

Surgical Technique

Mastopexy uses the patient's own tissue to lift and reshape drooping breasts, repositioning the areola-nipple complex to a more youthful height.

During the examination I consider size, shape, skin quality, position of the areola-nipple complex, and the desired outcome to select the surgical approach (design and location of incisions). Whether to combine the lift with breast implants is carefully analyzed during the consultation.

Surgical time is 2 to 4 hours; hospitalization is generally not required.

Step-by-Step Procedure Description

Under general anesthesia, I begin by designing the new position of the areola on the breast skin. I remove the excess skin that is causing drooping and reshape the underlying breast tissue to create a firmer, more lifted contour. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned to its planned location — remaining attached to its blood supply throughout — before the incisions are closed in layers.

When implants are included in the plan, they are placed in the pocket before closing, to add volume alongside the lift. This combination addresses both loss of volume and loss of position at the same time.

Pre-Surgical Examinations

Basic tests include: complete blood count, PT, PTT, platelets (coagulation tests), creatinine and urinalysis (kidney function tests).

Breast ultrasound and mammography are required for every woman over 35 years of age who will undergo breast surgery.

Other specialized tests should be considered for certain patients.

Recovery Timeline

Days 1–3: Rest at home with chest supported by a surgical bra. Local ice for the first 24 hours. Expect moderate soreness managed with prescribed analgesics and antibiotics.

Week 1: Discomfort decreases substantially. Light activities are possible. Continue wearing the surgical bra. Avoid raising your arms or carrying weight.

Weeks 2–3: Swelling diminishes. The lifted shape becomes visible. Most patients can return to desk work and light daily activities.

Month 1: The breasts look and feel noticeably improved. Light exercise such as walking is encouraged. Avoid chest-loading activities.

Months 2–3 and beyond: Scars soften and fade. Most physical activities can be resumed. The final result is visible once all swelling has resolved.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Home rest for 3 to 5 days.

Local ice for 24 hours, then local heat from the second post-operative day.

Antibiotics and analgesics for 7 days.

Use of a medical bra that protects and provides support for 3 to 4 weeks.

Pain tolerance, response to swelling, and individual healing differences create variation in recovery duration.

Generally, 5 to 7 days of incapacity for work activities and 2 to 3 weeks for sports activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a breast lift the same as breast reduction?

No. A breast lift (mastopexy) repositions and reshapes breast tissue without removing significant volume. Breast reduction removes a meaningful amount of breast tissue. Both procedures reposition the nipple-areola complex and lift the breast profile.

Can I combine a lift with implants?

Yes — this is a very common and effective combination for patients who have experienced both volume loss and drooping, typically after pregnancy and breastfeeding. We discuss this option carefully during the consultation.

Will mastopexy affect breastfeeding?

In most cases breastfeeding ability is preserved because the nipple-areola complex remains attached to the glandular tissue throughout the procedure. This is discussed individually during consultation.

How visible will the scars be?

Scars are placed in locations largely concealed by a bra or swimsuit. Over 12–18 months they fade considerably, though some permanent scar will remain. Most patients consider the lifted result well worth it.

How long do results last?

The lifted position is long-lasting. Normal aging, gravity, and future pregnancies can affect the breast over time. Maintaining a stable body weight helps preserve results.

Why Choose Me?

I have refined mastopexy techniques over more than 30 years of practice, achieving results that look exceptionally natural. I understand the proportions needed for a harmonious outcome — my patients appreciate the balance I achieve between a dramatic lift and a natural appearance that does not look over-operated.

Complications

This is a safe procedure performed on many women every year without major complications. Like any surgery, it carries risks which we can detail during our consultation. Some of these complications may include:

• Poor scarring.
• Sensitivity alterations.
• Breast asymmetry.
• Infections.
• Hematomas.

Medications or substances that may increase the risk of complications should not be consumed.

Smoking may contraindicate the surgery.