Breast lift (Mastopexy)

What is a mastopexy?

A mastopexy, or breast lift, is an operation to lift and reshape sagging breasts. It’s usually done when you're happy with the size of your breasts, but want them to look firmer and more lifted. Breasts can sag after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or simply with age as the skin stretches and the breasts droop.

Who might be a good candidate for mastopexy?

A breast lift may be a good option for you if:

You are in good health.
You have realistic expectations of what can and cannot be achieved with surgery.
Your breasts are fully developed.
Your breasts are sagging and have lost their shape and firmness.
When unsupported, your nipples fall below the fold under your breast.
Your nipples and areolas point downward.
You have stretched skin and enlarged areola.

While a breast lift is carefully tailored to suit each patient’s unique body, lifestyle, and desired outcome, individual results will vary based on your specific anatomy and goals.

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FAQs

Before your surgery, you’ll have a detailed consultation with Dr Law to discuss your goals, the procedure, and any risks. Clinical photos will be taken, and a second consultation will be arranged to answer further questions. It’s important to stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery to reduce risks. You may need blood tests and other health checks, and will receive personalised instructions to prepare you for surgery.
A breast lift is usually performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital.
There are different techniques of performing breast lift surgery, but the main steps involve:
Making incisions
Depending on the amount of lift required and your breast shape, Dr Law will choose one of several incision patterns. Common options are:
- Around the areola (periareolar).
- Around the areola and vertically down to the breast fold (lollipop).
- Around the areola, down, and along the breast crease (anchor).
Dr Law will recommend the best approach for your needs.
Reshaping and lifting the breast
- The underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve contour and firmness.
- The nipple and areola are repositioned to a more natural height.
- If necessary, enlarged areolas can be reduced.
- Stitches may be placed deep inside the breast to help shape it.
- If you want bigger breasts as well as a lift, you may need both an implant and a lift. Sometimes this can be done in the single operation; other times, it's better to do them in two stages.
Removing excess skin
Sometimes excess breast skin may need to be removed to tighten the overall shape.
Closing the incisions
The incisions are closed with sutures, and the breasts are dressed with surgical bandages or a support bra.
The surgery usually takes 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes patients can go home the same day, or may need to stay overnight in hospital.
As you recover, you’ll need to wear a surgical bra for 6 weeks to support healing. You may also be advised to:
- Avoid exercise and heavy lifting.
- Refrain from smoking and alcohol.
- Sleep on your back.
- Avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height, especially in the early stages.
- Comply with wound care which may involve keeping incision sites clean, using specific ointments or creams, and refraining from swimming, etc.
- Attend follow-up appointments to check your healing and results.

Risks & complications

All surgery carries risks and may include:
- Drug reactions.
- Allergic reactions.
- Infection.
- Bleeding and haematoma (blood clot).
- Seroma (fluid collection).
Risks specific to mastopexy will be discussed with you during your consultation and will also be provided in your consent paperwork. These include:
- Nipple numbness.
- Nipple healing problems.
- Fat necrosis (lumps in the breast).
- Wound healing issues and poor scarring.
- Asymmetry.
- Inability to breastfeed.
Choosing a qualified surgeon with proper anaesthetic support helps minimise these risks.