What Is Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?

Breast lift surgery is a surgical procedure performed to reshape, lift, and restore a more aesthetic appearance to sagging breasts that have lost their form. Also known as “Breast Lifting,” “Breast Tightening,” or “Mastopexy,” this operation is one of the most commonly requested aesthetic surgeries among women and provides highly successful results in properly selected candidates.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in fully equipped operating room conditions by a Specialist in Aesthetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery. Depending on the degree of sagging and the technique to be used, the procedure may take between 1 and 3 hours.

How Is Breast Lift Surgery Performed?

The main goal of breast lift surgery is to reposition the nipple to its ideal level, remove excess and loose skin, and reshape the breast tissue to achieve a lifted, aesthetic, and youthful appearance.

The surgical technique to be applied is determined according to the degree of breast sagging. In some patients, a minimal incision around the areola may be sufficient, while in moderate to severe sagging cases, vertical (lollipop) or inverted-T (anchor) incisions beneath the breast may be required.

Why Do Breasts Sag?

Breast tissue is not static; it changes shape over time due to age, weight fluctuations, and environmental factors. The main causes of breast sagging include:

• Genetic predisposition and natural breast structure
• Large breast size
• Excessive weight gain and loss
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding periods
• Decrease in breast tissue after menopause
• Loss of skin elasticity due to aging
• Previously placed silicone implants
• Smoking
• Excessive sun exposure
• Obesity

Degrees of Breast Sagging (Ptosis)

The degree of sagging is critically important when planning breast lift surgery. Classification is made by evaluating the position of the nipple relative to the inframammary fold:

• Grade 1 (mild ptosis): The nipple is at or just below the inframammary fold.
• Grade 2 (moderate ptosis): The nipple is clearly below the fold.
• Grade 3 (severe ptosis): The nipple is below even the lower breast tissue.
• Pseudoptosis: The nipple is in its ideal position, but the lower pole breast tissue has sagged.

Preoperative Preparation for Breast Lift Surgery

Before surgery, the patient’s general health is evaluated, and breast tissue is examined using ultrasound or mammography. Blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements, and foods that may increase bleeding, such as green tea, should be discontinued. For patients who smoke, quitting smoking at least 2–4 weeks before surgery is very important for the healing process.

Breast Lift Surgery Techniques

The surgical technique used is determined according to the degree of sagging, and different incision patterns may be applied accordingly:

• Periareolar incision: Suitable for mild sagging.
• Lollipop (vertical) incision: Applied in moderate sagging.
• Inverted-T (anchor) incision: Preferred for advanced sagging and large breasts.

Postoperative Process After Breast Lift Surgery

A few hours after surgery, the patient can begin eating and walking. Usually, one night of hospitalization is sufficient. Drains are removed within 1–2 days.

The recovery process progresses as follows:

• A special supportive bra should be worn for 6–8 weeks.
• Dressing checks continue for the first 7–10 days.
• Special creams may be used for incision scars. Recommended.
• Protecting the scars from the sun for 1 year is important to reduce their visibility.

In the first weeks, the breasts may appear higher and firmer; over time, as the tissue settles, a more natural appearance is achieved.

Risks of Breast Lift Surgery

As with any surgery, breast lift surgery has certain risks. However, these risks are significantly reduced when performed by plastic surgeons specialized in breast aesthetics and when postoperative care is carefully followed. Smoking and connective tissue diseases may increase the risk.

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Wound dehiscence
• Nipple circulation problems
• Temporary or permanent sensory changes
• Asymmetry
• Poor scar healing

Frequently Asked Questions After Breast Lift Surgery

How Long After Stopping Breastfeeding Can I Have Surgery?

It is recommended to wait 3–6 months after childbirth and breastfeeding for milk production to completely stop.

Does Breast Lift Surgery Prevent Breastfeeding?

Generally, no. In some techniques, a portion of the milk ducts may be cut; however, in most patients, the ability to breastfeed is preserved.

Can Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation Be Performed at the Same Time?

Yes. In patients with insufficient breast volume, silicone implants can be placed during the lift procedure to achieve a fuller appearance.

I Have Sagging; Which Surgery Is Suitable for Me?

• If there is only sagging: Breast lift
• If there is sagging + volume loss: Lift + implant
• If there is sagging + large breasts: Breast reduction + lift

Are the Results Permanent?

Breast lift results are long-lasting; however, aging, weight changes, genetic factors, pregnancy, and breastfeeding may affect the outcome.

Will There Be Loss of Sensation in the Nipples?

This is rare and usually temporary. In very few cases, it may be permanent.

Is the Surgery Painful?

Breast lift surgery alone generally does not cause severe pain. Most patients can return to daily life within 3–7 days. If implants are placed at the same time, mild to moderate pain may be experienced in the first days.

Is Non-Surgical Breast Lift Possible?

No. There is no scientifically proven non-surgical method that can lift sagging breasts.

Will There Be Scars After Surgery?

Yes, scars are inevitable due to the surgical technique; however, they fade over time. The appearance of scars can be minimized with postoperative silicone gel, sunscreen creams, collagen-stimulating injections along the incision line, and laser treatments. Scar visibility varies depending on the individual’s wound-healing characteristics.