Breast uplift (mastopexy)
Breast uplift (mastopexy)
A breast lift (Mastopexy) is carried out for patients who are happy with the size of their breasts but do not like their shape, usually being too droopy. Breasts naturally droop with age, after pregnancy and breastfeeding, and after weight loss. This is because the skin and fibrous ligaments in the breast become stretched, so the breast tissue is not supported. The breasts can be reshaped by removing excess skin, remodelling the breast tissue and moving the nipples up to a higher position on the new breasts.
This often leads to scars which are anchor shaped. Other options are to reduce the size of the areola (the darker pigmented skin around the nipple), or to have the breasts enlarged with implants at the same time. Having a breast uplift can make the breasts firmer and higher.
Length of surgery- The operation takes 2-3 hours depending on the complexity of the case. Can be done as a day case or overnight stay in hospital.
Post-op dressings- Stitches are generally dissolvable and the wounds are mostly covered with steristrips and a waterproof dressing. It is important not to get the wounds wet for 48 hours after surgery and the dressings will be usually removed a week later.
Drains- These are not commonly required and often only used when the procedure is more complex and kept in for 1-2 days.
Bras & Stockings- Patients should bring 1 or 2 soft (non underwired) sports bras to hospital with them. Front fastening zip bras can often be easier to manage. TED (anti clot) stockings are provided by the hospital and should be worn for 1-2 weeks after surgery to minimise clot complications.
Time Off Work & Exercise- Patients should allow an initial period of 2 weeks to recover. Most patients can go back to work after this time but can vary based on what job is being done. Heavy manual work and strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Driving- Patients should be able to drive by 7-10 days. They should have no restriction of movement, be pain free and feel confident in their ability to perform an emergency stop (in order not to invalidate car insurance).
Potential Complications
Unsightly scars, infection, bleeding and clots in the legs/lungs can arise with any type of surgery. Breast asymmetry, wound breakdown, altered nipple sensation can occur and nipple loss is rare. All risks tend to be higher in women with very large breasts, smokers and obese patients. Surgery can affect a minority of women who wish to subsequently breast feed. It is important to note that breasts will not remain perky for life and are likely to sag once again over time.
If implants are placed at the same time, then all the complications of implant surgery would also be relevant.
If you smoke, stopping at least six weeks before the operation will help to reduce the risk of complications.
Patients who have a breast uplift tend to be very pleased with the results, however, it is important that they have realistic expectations. They need to understand what can and cannot be achieved, the limitations of surgery and any long term consequences.
Speak to a member of our team today
If you would like to get in touch to ask our team any questions or you would like to book an appointment please contact us via the details below.