Breast lift or mastopexia is used to improve the shape and elevate dropping breast due to loss of elasticity of the skin, pregnancy or heredital factors.  This sagging is known as ptosis and it is divided in different degrees according to its severity.  The procedure can be performed in association with other ones such as breast implants or breast reduction.

Don't forget that any procedure can avoid gravity or the consequences of future pregnancies, if you plan to have more children you should consider to postpone this surgery.  Best results can be seen with small dropping breast, although any size of breast can be lifted, the results won't last as long if the breast are more heavy. 

Before                    After

Posible Complications

The scars of mastopexia are permanent and visible but they can be hidden with the bra or bikini.  Some people, for example smokers, have more wound healing problems than others.

Other risks that could appear even in the most skillfull surgeon are:

• Temporal or permanent changes in sensibility.
• Asymmetry
• Bleeding
• Infection

Before Mastopexia

Your surgeon will evaluate the size and shape of your breast sitting and standing, skin tone and general health.  In some cases a mammographic study could be request to have a control before the surgery.  Blood transfusions are not required for the procedure.  Don't forget to follow all the guidelines of your surgeon before and after the procedure.

The Surgery

The surgery is performed in an operating room and usually you won't need more than one day in the clinic before going back home.   It is usually done under general anaesthesia, but in some specific cases local anaesthesia and sedation could be used. 

In about 2 to 3 hours the excess of skin will be removed and the nipple and areola moved to a higher position.  The incision will be done around the areola and in a vertical line under it going to the crease below your breast, the size of them will depend on your specific case and the grade of ptosis.  In some cases, a breast implant could be placed.

The Results

You could feel some discomfort and tired for the first days, occasional burning feeling in the nipples could last for couple of weeks and the swelling should disappear in 3 to 6 weeks, then improving every day.  The dressings and stitches will be removed in te following weeks and then you will start using a support bra.

You can apply moisturizer if your skin is too dry but keep it away from the suture areas and not to be pulling the skin.  You should be able to go back to work in couple of days, but you should avoid lifting heavy things above your head and arduous activities, including physical contact with your breast for 2 to 3 weeks at least. 

The results can be seen inmediately, but remember that the scars are going to be visible even with the highest effort from your plastic surgeon.  The scars will start to improve after 6 weeks.  The effect of gravity (more visible according to the size and weight of your breast), pregnancy, aging and weight fluctuation will eventually be seen.