A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. As a woman ages, her skin loses some elasticity which can cause the breasts to lose their natural shape and firmness. The breast lift is designed to elevate the breasts and give them a more youthful appearance. The procedure may also be completed in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery.

Why should I consider a breast lift?

A breast lift can be performed in order to:

• Elevate the breasts due to sagging caused by the effects of aging and gravity
• Firm the breasts if they have lost substance due to pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding
• Realign the nipples/areolas if they point down or to the side
• Bring back natural contour after weight loss

What is the general procedure for a breast lift?

A breast lift usually takes one-and-a-half to three hours.  The extent of breast sagging will determine the extent of the incisions; as the severity of sagging increases more incisions are required to lift the breasts. The incisions will be underneath the breast in the crease called the inframammary fold and vertically up the middle. This pattern of incisions is commonly called the anchor pattern.

Some patients—especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging—may be candidates for a modified procedure that requires less extensive incisions. One such procedure is the "doughnut (or concentric) mastopexy" in which circular incisions are made around the areola and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed.  

What are the limitations of the surgery?

A mastopexy cannot be done without some scars caused by the incision pattern as described above.  In addition, a breast lift will not help to sustain superior fullness of the breast. If superior breast fullness is the desired outcome a breast lift needs to be combined with an implant.

What can I expect after surgery?

The results of a breast lift are visible immediately and the recovery is not difficult. Because the chest muscles are not involved in the surgery the pain is not significant. Usually, patients are off of their prescription pain medications by day three.  There is a moderate amount swelling and bruising which will resolve within 10 days.

What are the risks of mastopexy?

The risks with mastopexy surgery are minimal and occurence is rare. As with other surgeries bleeding, infection, and thick scars can occur.  Maxtopexy can lead to scarring—especially if the anchor pattern is utlilized—and therefore great care is given to meticulous incision closure. In addition, smokers are warned about the deleterious affects smoking has on healing.