What is a Breast Lift? Your Comprehensive Guide to Mastopexy

For many women, the journey of life—marked by significant milestones like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and the natural aging process—can bring about changes in their body, particularly their breasts. Over time, factors such as gravity, loss of skin elasticity, and hormonal shifts can lead to breasts losing their youthful firmness and position, resulting in a saggy or deflated appearance. This common concern can impact not only a woman’s silhouette but also her self-confidence and body image. If you’ve noticed your breasts are no longer as lifted or perky as they once were, you’re certainly not alone, and there’s a highly effective cosmetic solution available: a breast lift.

A breast lift, medically known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and elevate the breasts, restoring a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing contour. It addresses issues such as sagging (ptosis), stretched skin, and downward-pointing nipples, without necessarily changing the size of the breasts. While some women may combine a breast lift with breast augmentation to achieve both lift and increased volume, the primary goal of a mastopexy is to reposition the existing breast tissue and nipple-areola complex to a higher, more youthful position on the chest wall.

The importance of a breast lift extends beyond mere aesthetics. For many, it’s about regaining comfort, improving clothing fit, and boosting self-esteem. The procedure can significantly enhance a woman’s body confidence, allowing her to feel more comfortable and beautiful in her own skin. Understanding what a breast lift entails, from the reasons why women opt for it to the various surgical techniques and the recovery process, is crucial for anyone considering this transformative procedure.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the world of breast lift surgery. We’ll explore the fundamental definitions, differentiate it from breast augmentation, discuss the common motivations behind seeking a mastopexy, and meticulously outline the different types of breast lift procedures available, comparing their incision patterns and expected results. Furthermore, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of a breast lift, from initial consultations to post-operative care, providing you with a clear roadmap of what to expect. Finally, we’ll address frequently asked questions, dispelling common myths and offering expert insights to help you make an informed decision about whether a breast lift is the right choice for you.

Understanding Breast Lift Surgery

Definition and Basic Explanation

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure performed to raise and firm the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. The procedure does not significantly change the size of the breasts; rather, it focuses on improving their shape, projection, and position on the chest. During a mastopexy, the surgeon repositions the nipple and areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple) to a more youthful, upward-facing position, often reducing the size of the areola if it has stretched over time. The goal is to create breasts that are firmer, more lifted, and proportional to the patient’s body frame, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing and rejuvenated appearance.

The core concept behind a breast lift is to counteract the effects of gravity and aging that cause breasts to sag. As skin loses its elasticity, the ligaments supporting the breast tissue stretch, and the glandular tissue itself may diminish or shift downwards. A breast lift effectively “lifts” the breast mound back to a higher position on the chest, removes the loose, stretched skin, and tightens the underlying breast tissue envelope. This results in a breast that sits higher, has a more defined shape, and often projects more outwardly, enhancing the overall profile. It’s a highly individualized procedure, tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and desired outcome.

Common Reasons for a Breast Lift

Women opt for breast lift surgery for a variety of personal and physical reasons, often driven by a desire to restore a more youthful appearance or improve comfort. The most common reasons include:

• Aging: As women age, skin naturally loses elasticity, and gravity takes its toll, causing breasts to sag and lose their firmness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The hormonal changes and fluctuations in breast size during pregnancy and lactation can stretch the skin and breast tissue, leading to a deflated or dropped appearance after childbirth and weaning.
• Significant Weight Fluctuations: Both substantial weight gain and subsequent weight loss can cause the skin to stretch and then become loose, resulting in sagging breasts.
• Genetics: Some women are naturally predisposed to having less firm or more pendulous breasts due to their genetic makeup.
• Loss of Volume: While a breast lift doesn’t add volume, it can make existing breast tissue appear fuller and more projected by reshaping and lifting it, especially when breasts have lost their upper pole fullness.
• Asymmetry: A breast lift can correct minor to moderate asymmetries between the breasts, improving overall balance.
• Nipple Position: When the nipples point downwards or are positioned below the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast), a breast lift can elevate them to a more aesthetic, forward-facing position.
• Improved Body Image and Confidence: Beyond the physical changes, many women seek a breast lift to enhance their self-esteem, feel more comfortable in clothing, and achieve a renewed sense of confidence in their body.

These factors often lead to breasts that have lost their original shape, firmness, and position, with the nipple and areola potentially pointing downwards. A breast lift specifically targets these concerns, aiming to rejuvenate the breast appearance without necessarily altering breast size.

Differences Between Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation

While both breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation (mammoplasty) are popular cosmetic breast surgeries, they serve distinct purposes and address different aesthetic concerns. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone considering breast surgery:

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

• Primary Goal: To lift and reshape sagging breasts, restore firmness, and reposition the nipple and areola to a more youthful position.
• Addresses: Sagging (ptosis), loss of skin elasticity, stretched skin, downward-pointing nipples, and sometimes a deflated appearance due to tissue descent.
• Method: Involves removing excess skin, tightening existing breast tissue, and elevating the breast mound. It does not add volume.
• Results: Higher, firmer, and more youthful-looking breasts. The size of the breast typically remains the same or may appear slightly smaller due to reshaping and removal of excess skin.
• Ideal Candidate: Women whose breasts have lost their firmness and position due to aging, pregnancy, weight changes, or genetics, but who are generally satisfied with their breast volume.

Breast Augmentation (Mammoplasty)

• Primary Goal: To increase breast size, enhance cleavage, and improve breast shape by adding volume.
• Addresses: Small breast size (hypomastia), significant volume loss, and asymmetry where one breast is significantly smaller than the other.
• Method: Involves inserting breast implants (saline or silicone) either under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle.
• Results: Larger, fuller breasts. While implants can fill out deflated breasts, they don’t independently correct significant sagging.
• Ideal Candidate: Women who desire larger breasts or wish to restore lost volume, and whose breasts have minimal to no sagging.

Can They Be Combined?

Yes, it is very common for a plastic surgeon to perform a breast lift and breast augmentation simultaneously. This combined procedure, often called an “augmentation mastopexy” or “breast lift with implants,” is ideal for women who wish to address both sagging and lack of volume. For instance, a woman whose breasts have significantly deflated and sagged after pregnancy might benefit from both a lift to reposition the breast and an implant to restore lost fullness. The decision to combine these procedures depends on the individual’s existing breast anatomy, degree of sagging, and desired aesthetic outcome. A thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the most appropriate surgical plan.

Types of Breast Lift Procedures

The choice of breast lift technique largely depends on the degree of breast sagging (ptosis), the amount of excess skin, the desired outcome, and the surgeon’s preference. Each technique involves different incision patterns, leading to varying scar locations and levels of lift. A skilled plastic surgeon will assess your unique anatomy and discuss the most appropriate option for you.

Crescent Lift

The crescent lift, also known as a crescent mastopexy, is the least invasive type of breast lift, suitable for women with very minimal sagging and who require only a slight elevation of the nipple. It is often performed in conjunction with breast augmentation.

• Incision Pattern: A small, crescent-shaped incision is made along the upper edge of the areola.
• Procedure: A small amount of skin above the areola is removed, and the remaining skin is lifted and re-sutured to pull the nipple-areola complex slightly upwards.
• Ideal For: Patients with minimal sagging (pseudo-ptosis or grade I ptosis) who need a very subtle lift, often combined with augmentation. It offers the least amount of lift.
• Scarring: A discreet scar along the upper border of the areola, which typically blends well with the skin.

Peri-Areolar Lift (Donut Lift)

The peri-areolar lift, often referred to as a “donut lift,” is designed for women with mild to moderate sagging and who require correction of the nipple position and potentially reduction of areola size. It offers a moderate degree of lift.

• Incision Pattern: Two concentric circular incisions are made around the areola, one at the edge of the areola and another just outside it, creating a “donut” shape.
• Procedure: The circular strip of skin between the two incisions is removed. The outer skin is then pulled inwards and sutured to the edge of the areola, tightening the skin around the nipple-areola complex and providing a modest lift.
• Ideal For: Mild to moderate sagging (grade I to early grade II ptosis), patients who primarily need nipple elevation and/or areola reduction.
• Scarring: A circular scar around the perimeter of the areola, which is often well-hidden by the natural pigmentation of the areola.

Vertical Lift (Lollipop Lift)

The vertical lift, or “lollipop lift,” is a more comprehensive technique suitable for women with moderate sagging. It provides a good amount of lift and can address significant excess skin.

• Incision Pattern: This technique involves two incisions: one circular incision around the areola (like the peri-areolar lift) and another vertical incision extending downwards from the bottom edge of the areola to the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast). The incision resembles a lollipop.
• Procedure: Excess skin is removed from around the areola and along the vertical line. The breast tissue is then reshaped and lifted, and the remaining skin is tightened to create a firmer, more elevated breast. The nipple and areola are repositioned.
• Ideal For: Moderate sagging (grade II ptosis), patients needing significant nipple elevation and more extensive skin removal. It is a versatile technique for achieving a noticeable lift.
• Scarring: A circular scar around the areola and a vertical scar extending downwards from the areola to the breast crease. While more visible than the crescent or peri-areolar scars, these typically fade well over time and are easily concealed by a bra or swimsuit.

Inverted-T Lift (Anchor Lift)

The inverted-T lift, also known as the “anchor lift” due to its incision pattern, is the most extensive breast lift technique. It is reserved for women with severe sagging, significant excess skin, and often substantial breast volume that needs significant reshaping.

• Incision Pattern: This technique involves three incisions: one around the areola, one vertical incision extending downwards from the areola to the inframammary fold, and a third horizontal incision along the inframammary fold. The overall pattern resembles an inverted ‘T’ or a ship’s anchor.
• Procedure: A substantial amount of excess skin and sometimes some breast tissue is removed from all three incision areas. The breast mound is extensively reshaped, lifted dramatically, and tightened. The nipple and areola are repositioned to their optimal location.
• Ideal For: Severe sagging (grade III ptosis), significant excess skin, and cases where significant reshaping and lift are required. Often used for patients who have experienced massive weight loss.
• Scarring: Scars around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease. These scars are the most extensive but are necessary to achieve the desired degree of lift and contour in cases of severe ptosis. They are often well-concealed beneath a bra or bikini bottom.

Comparison of Techniques

Here’s a quick comparison to help understand the differences between these breast lift techniques:

Technique	Incision Pattern	Degree of Lift	Ideal for Sagging Level	Scarring
Crescent Lift	Crescent-shaped incision above areola	Minimal	Very Mild	Minimal, along upper areola
Peri-Areolar Lift (Donut)	Circular incision around areola	Mild to Moderate	Mild to Moderate	Circular, around areola
Vertical Lift (Lollipop)	Around areola + vertical down to crease	Moderate to Significant	Moderate	Around areola + vertical
Inverted-T Lift (Anchor)	Around areola + vertical + horizontal along crease	Most Significant	Severe	Around areola + vertical + horizontal

The choice of technique is a critical decision that should be made in close consultation with your plastic surgeon, who will consider your aesthetic goals, current breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and the degree of ptosis to recommend the most suitable and effective approach for you.

The Breast Lift Procedure: Step-by-Step

Undergoing a breast lift is a significant decision, and understanding the entire process—from initial consultation to post-surgery recovery—can help alleviate anxieties and set realistic expectations. Here’s a detailed step-by-step overview of what to expect:

Pre-surgery Preparations and Consultations

The journey to a breast lift begins with a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. This initial meeting is crucial for establishing your goals, assessing your suitability for the procedure, and planning the surgical approach.

• Initial Consultation: During this meeting, you will discuss your medical history, current medications, any allergies, and previous surgeries. The surgeon will examine your breasts, noting their size, shape, skin quality, nipple and areola position, and degree of sagging. They will also take measurements and photographs for pre- and post-operative comparison. You’ll have the opportunity to express your aesthetic goals and concerns.
• Personalized Surgical Plan: Based on the assessment, your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate breast lift technique (e.g., vertical, anchor, peri-areolar) and discuss whether combining it with augmentation or reduction is advisable. They will explain the expected outcomes, potential risks, and benefits specific to your case.
• Medical Evaluation: Before surgery, you will undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This typically includes blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and potentially a mammogram. You might be asked to get medical clearance from your primary care physician.
• Medication Review: You will receive instructions on which medications to stop taking before surgery, especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain herbal supplements, as these can increase bleeding risks.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: If you smoke, you will be advised to stop several weeks before and after surgery, as smoking significantly impairs healing and increases complication risks. You should also maintain a stable weight prior to surgery.
• Anesthesia Consultation: You may meet with the anesthesiologist to discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used (typically general anesthesia) and any concerns you may have.
• Pre-operative Instructions: You will receive detailed instructions regarding fasting before surgery, what to wear on the day of surgery, and arrangements for transportation home after the procedure. It’s essential to have a responsible adult available to drive you home and assist you for the first 24-48 hours.

Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation of the Surgery Process

A breast lift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility or hospital, lasting approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it’s combined with other procedures.

1. Anesthesia Administration: Once you are comfortably positioned, the anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia, ensuring you are completely asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure.
2. Marking Incisions: Before the anesthesia takes full effect, or sometimes just before, the surgeon will meticulously mark the incision lines on your breasts. These markings serve as a precise guide during the surgery, ensuring symmetry and optimal results.
3. Making Incisions: The surgeon will carefully make the chosen incision pattern (crescent, peri-areolar, vertical, or inverted-T) on your breasts. These incisions are strategically placed to allow for the removal of excess skin and reshaping of the breast tissue.
4. Reshaping and Lifting the Breast Tissue: Through the incisions, the surgeon will remove any excess skin that contributes to sagging. The underlying breast tissue is then carefully lifted, reshaped, and tightened to create a firmer, more youthful contour. This involves elevating the breast mound to a higher position on the chest wall.
5. Repositioning the Nipple and Areola: A critical step in a breast lift is the repositioning of the nipple and areola. The surgeon will carefully move the nipple-areola complex to a higher, more aesthetically pleasing position that is proportional to the newly shaped breast. If the areola is enlarged, it can be reduced in size during this step to create a more balanced appearance. Nerve and blood supply to the nipple are typically maintained.
6. Closing the Incisions: Once the desired shape and position are achieved, the incisions are meticulously closed with sutures. Internal sutures are often used to provide support and maintain the new breast shape, while external sutures, surgical tape, or skin adhesive close the skin. Drains may be placed temporarily to collect any excess fluid, though this is not always necessary.

Post-surgery Care and Recovery Process

Recovery from a breast lift varies among individuals but generally follows a predictable timeline. Adhering to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial for optimal healing and results.

Immediate Post-operative Care (First Few Days to 1-2 Weeks):

• Compression Garment/Surgical Bra: You will be fitted with a special surgical bra or compression garment immediately after surgery. This provides support, reduces swelling, and helps the breasts maintain their new shape. It should be worn continuously as instructed by your surgeon.
• Pain Management: You will experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage this. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be recommended.
• Rest and Activity Restrictions: Rest is paramount. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and raising your arms above your shoulders for the first few weeks. Sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated is often recommended to reduce swelling.
• Drains: If drains were placed, you’ll receive instructions on how to manage them, including emptying and recording fluid output. They are usually removed within a few days when fluid output decreases.
• Wound Care: Keep incision sites clean and dry. You’ll receive specific instructions on dressing changes and showering. Avoid baths and swimming until incisions are fully healed.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures (if non-dissolvable), and address any concerns.

Long-term Recovery Tips and Expected Timeline:

• Swelling and Bruising: Most significant swelling and bruising subside within 2-4 weeks, but residual swelling can persist for several months.
• Scar Maturation: Scars will initially appear red and raised but will gradually fade and flatten over several months to a year or more. Protecting them from sun exposure is vital to prevent darkening. Your surgeon may recommend scar massage or topical treatments.
• Return to Activities:
  • Light Activities: Most patients can return to light, non-strenuous activities and desk work within 1-2 weeks.
  • Moderate Exercise: Moderate exercise can typically be resumed after 4-6 weeks, with gradual reintroduction of more intense workouts.
  • Full Activity: Full recovery and return to all normal activities, including vigorous exercise, usually takes 6-8 weeks, or longer depending on individual healing.
• Numbness or Altered Sensation: It’s common to experience temporary numbness or altered sensation in the nipples and breast skin. Sensation usually returns gradually over several months, though some changes can be permanent.
• Final Results: While initial results are visible immediately, the final shape and position of the breasts will become apparent as swelling resolves and tissues settle, typically around 3-6 months post-surgery.

Patience is key during the recovery process. Follow all post-operative instructions diligently and communicate any concerns with your surgical team. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and avoiding smoking, will also support optimal healing.

Conclusion

A breast lift, or mastopexy, offers a profound opportunity for women to regain a more youthful, lifted, and confident breast contour. Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the multifaceted aspects of this transformative procedure, from understanding its core definition and the compelling reasons why women choose it, to differentiating it from breast augmentation, and delving into the intricacies of various surgical techniques. We’ve also meticulously outlined the step-by-step journey of a breast lift, from the crucial pre-operative preparations and detailed surgical process to the vital post-operative care and recovery period.

The decision to undergo a breast lift is a deeply personal one, often driven by a desire to restore comfort, enhance clothing fit, and significantly boost self-esteem. While the aesthetic benefits are clear—firmer, more elevated breasts with optimally positioned nipples—it’s equally important to consider the practicalities, including the recovery timeline, potential risks, and the commitment to post-operative care. Remember that while a breast lift can dramatically improve the appearance of sagging breasts, it does not stop the natural aging process, and future changes due to factors like significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or ongoing gravity may occur.

Ultimately, the most critical step in considering a breast lift is to consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. An expert surgeon will provide a personalized assessment, discuss your specific goals, explain the most suitable technique for your unique anatomy, and ensure you have realistic expectations about the outcomes and recovery. They are your best resource for tailored advice and guidance throughout this empowering journey.

Embracing the possibility of a breast lift means investing in your well-being and confidence. With proper planning, a skilled surgical team, and diligent adherence to post-operative instructions, a mastopexy can deliver highly satisfying and long-lasting results, helping you feel more comfortable and radiant in your own skin.

Key Takeaways

• A breast lift (mastopexy) reshapes and elevates sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening tissues, restoring a youthful contour without necessarily increasing size.
• It addresses sagging caused by aging, pregnancy, weight changes, and genetics, distinguishing itself from breast augmentation which primarily adds volume.
• Various techniques exist (Crescent, Peri-Areolar, Vertical, Inverted-T Lift), each chosen based on the degree of sagging and desired lift, impacting incision patterns and scarring.
• A successful outcome relies on thorough pre-surgery consultations, meticulous surgical execution, and diligent post-operative care, leading to improved confidence and body image.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Breast Lift Surgery

What is the ideal age for a breast lift?

There is no single “ideal” age for a breast lift. The suitability for the procedure depends more on the individual’s breast development, skin elasticity, overall health, and the degree of sagging rather than chronological age. Most commonly, women consider a breast lift after they have completed their families and finished breastfeeding, or after significant weight loss. However, younger women who have naturally sagging breasts or early signs of ptosis might also be good candidates. The key is stable weight, good general health, and realistic expectations.

How long do the results of a breast lift last?

The results of a breast lift are generally long-lasting, but they are not entirely permanent. While the surgery significantly improves the shape and position of the breasts, the natural aging process, gravity, future pregnancies, and significant weight fluctuations can gradually affect the results over time. Maintaining a stable weight, wearing supportive bras, and leading a healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results for many years. Most patients enjoy the benefits for 10-15 years or even longer before considering any touch-up procedures, if desired.

Can a breast lift be combined with other surgeries?

Yes, a breast lift is frequently combined with other cosmetic procedures to achieve a more comprehensive transformation. The most common combination is with breast augmentation (augmentation mastopexy) for women who desire both lift and increased volume. It can also be combined with breast reduction (for women with very large, sagging breasts), or as part of a “Mommy Makeover,” which often includes tummy tuck and liposuction, addressing multiple post-pregnancy body changes in a single surgical session. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time and anesthesia exposure compared to undergoing multiple separate surgeries, but it also increases the overall surgical time and complexity.

What are the risks and complications associated with a breast lift?

Like any surgical procedure, a breast lift carries potential risks and complications, although serious ones are rare. These can include: anesthesia risks, bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, changes in nipple or breast sensation (temporary or permanent), asymmetry, unfavorable scarring, fluid accumulation (seroma), fat necrosis (death of fat tissue), and the possibility of revision surgery. Your surgeon will thoroughly discuss these risks during your consultation and take all necessary precautions to minimize them. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks.

How much does a breast lift cost on average?

The cost of a breast lift can vary significantly based on several factors, including the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, facility costs, the complexity of the procedure, geographic location, and whether it’s combined with other surgeries. On average, the surgeon’s fee for a breast lift can range from $4,000 to $8,000, but when factoring in all associated costs, the total can be anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000 or more. Since a breast lift is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by health insurance. It’s important to get a detailed quote from your surgeon’s office during your consultation.

What should I expect during the recovery period after a breast lift?

During the immediate recovery period (first 1-2 weeks), you should expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort, managed with prescribed pain medication. You will need to wear a surgical bra or compression garment continuously. Strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and raising your arms above your shoulders will be restricted. Most patients can return to light activities and desk work within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery, including the return to vigorous exercise, typically takes 6-8 weeks. Swelling can persist for several months, and scars will mature over a year. Patience and adherence to post-operative instructions are key for optimal results.

How do I choose the right surgeon for a breast lift?

Choosing the right surgeon is paramount for a successful breast lift. Look for a plastic surgeon who is: 1) Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (or equivalent in your country), indicating rigorous training and ethical standards. 2) Experienced specifically in breast lift procedures, with a portfolio of before-and-after photos demonstrating consistent, natural-looking results. 3) Has good patient reviews and testimonials. 4) Communicates clearly and openly, making you feel comfortable and understood. 5) Operates in an accredited surgical facility. Don’t hesitate to ask about their experience, complication rates, and to see multiple patient examples during your consultation.

Will a breast lift affect my ability to breastfeed?

The potential impact of a breast lift on breastfeeding ability depends on the specific surgical technique used and the extent of breast tissue manipulation. While many women are still able to breastfeed after a breast lift, there is a risk that the milk ducts or nerves involved in milk production and let-down could be disrupted.

Techniques that preserve more of the nipple’s connection to the underlying breast tissue, such as a peri-areolar lift, might have less impact. However, extensive lifts (like the inverted-T) that involve significant tissue rearrangement carry a higher risk. If future breastfeeding is a priority, it is crucial to discuss this with your surgeon during the consultation, as they can adapt the surgical plan to minimize potential interference with milk ducts where possible.

What is the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction?

While both procedures involve lifting and reshaping the breasts, their primary goals differ. A breast lift (mastopexy) focuses on elevating and firming sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening tissue, without significantly altering breast size. Its aim is aesthetic improvement of position and shape. A breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty), on the other hand, is performed to decrease the overall size and weight of excessively large breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin.

While a reduction inherently provides a lift as tissue is removed, its primary goal is to alleviate physical symptoms associated with large breasts (e.g., back pain, neck pain, shoulder grooves) and achieve a more proportionate size. Both procedures can improve breast shape and position, but for different underlying reasons.

How can I prepare for a breast lift surgery?

Preparing for breast lift surgery involves several key steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. These include: 1) Following all pre-operative instructions from your surgeon, especially regarding medications to avoid (like blood thinners) and fasting. 2) Quitting smoking several weeks before and after surgery. 3) Arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery and assist you for the first 24-48 hours. 4) Setting up a comfortable recovery space at home with easy access to essentials. 5) Filling any prescribed medications beforehand. 6) Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated. 7) Asking all your questions during your consultations to feel fully informed and confident.

Our Surgeons and Affiliated Professionals

At Surgyteam, we are proud to collaborate with a distinguished team of medical professionals, each bringing a wealth of expertise and a commitment to patient-centered care.

• Dr. Mehmet Fatih Okyay (Dr. MFO): Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. Co-founder of Surgyteam. FEBOPRAS certified. (https://www.dr-mfo.com/)
• Dr. Selçuk Yılmaz: Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. (https://drselcukyilmaz.com)
• Dr. Ebru Okyay: Dermatology Specialist. (https://drebruokyay.com/)
• Dr. Mustafa Keleş: Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist. (https://www.medstar.com.tr/doktorlar/mustafa-keles/)
• Dr. Boray Yücel: Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. (https://borayucel.com/)
• Dr. Sibel Atalay: Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. Clinic with International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate. (https://www.sibelatalay.com.tr/)
• Dr. Mert Meral: Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. EBOPRAS certified. (https://mertmeral.com/)

To learn more about Surgyteam and how we can assist you, please visit our website:
https://surgyteam.com/

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Costs are estimates and can vary. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for personalized advice and treatment.