Risks and Recovery
Breast lift surgery is normally performed using a general anaesthetic, and an overnight stay in the hospital is usually required. You may return to work one or two weeks following surgery, but it will take about four weeks to make a full recovery. The risks associated with breast lift include scarring and a decrease in or possible loss of nipple sensation.
What is mastopexy?
A mastopexy is an operation which raises and reshapes sagging breasts to a more youthful position.
What does the surgery involve?
Incisions are made to sculpt the breasts into a new shape, reduce the excess skin and raise the nipple/areola area (the dark skin surrounding and including the nipple) to a higher position. The incisions may include one or more of the following:
- Around the areola
- Vertically down from the areola to the breast crease
- Horizontally in the breast crease
A breast lift operation does not change the amount of breast tissue a women has but is does change the overall shape and position. Breast implants can be inserted at the same time as breast lift surgery to increase breast size or to improve fullness.
As a general rule, this procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic (you will be unconscious during the procedure).
Providing all is well, you can expect to go home the day after surgery.
What are the risks and side effects of surgery?
Having cosmetic surgery can be a very positive experience. Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, no surgery is without risk and it is important that you are given a clear picture as everyone varies in the risks they are willing to take. These possible problems will be fully discussed at your consultation.
What is the estimated time for recovery, absence from work and return to usual activities?
Recovery times vary from one person to another. Most patients return to work at 1 to 2 weeks. It takes approximately 6 to 12 months for the full result to be appreciated, as the swelling subsides and the breasts drop into a natural, more uplifted position.
Mastopexy post surgery timeline
Day 1 to 7
You may have some discomfort for a week. Mild painkillers will help with this but avoid taking aspirin.
Keep walking around to avoid post operative complications.
Week 2
Might pull and hurt a little when you move around.
Any non dissolvable stitches would be removed
Gradually begin to increase your activity
Depending on your job, should be able to return to work from 2 weeks
4 to 6 weeks
Avoid lifting or pushing anything heavy for at least 4 weeks
Loss of sensation to breast and nipple area continues to improve
6 to 9 months
Scars will begin to soften and fade.
Can start to judge the result.
Before and After
Fee Range
Breast Uplift (mastopexy)
starting from £6995