Indications
A breast lift (mastopexy) is the surgery that repositions and reshapes the breasts to correct sagging, common after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight change.
Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift addresses the breast's position and shape — not necessarily its volume.
With or without an implant
One of the central decisions in a breast lift is whether it will be done alone or combined with a silicone implant; this choice depends on each person's anatomy and goal.
- Breast lift without implant — indicated when breast volume is considered adequate and the goal is only to correct position and sagging.
- Breast lift with implant — indicated when, besides sagging, there is also volume loss the person wishes to restore with an implant.
Assessment
Combination defined individually
The decision between a breast lift with or without an implant — and, when with an implant, its size — is made individually, considering the anatomy and goal discussed in consultation.
How it is performed
Carried out in a hospital setting, under anaesthesia agreed with the team. Excess skin is removed and breast tissue is repositioned; when combined with an implant, it is placed during the same surgery. The scar's extent varies according to the degree of sagging.
Recovery
Swelling and discomfort in the first weeks are expected. A surgical bra and a gradual return to activity, avoiding physical exertion for the advised period, are part of recovery. The scar tends to fade over months.
Risks and factors that influence the outcome
Like any surgery, it involves risks — related to anaesthesia, healing, changes in sensitivity and, when combined with an implant, the risks inherent to the implant — discussed individually.
Skin quality, smoking and adherence to post-operative care affect the outcome, which varies from person to person.
Breast Lift
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need a breast lift with or without an implant?
It depends on current breast volume and each person's goal — those with adequate volume usually choose a lift alone; those who want to restore lost volume usually combine it with an implant. This is defined in consultation.
Does a breast lift always leave a scar around the nipple?
The scar's location and extent vary according to the technique and each person's degree of sagging, defined individually.
Does a breast lift replace breast augmentation?
Not necessarily — these are procedures with different goals (position vs. volume), which can be combined based on individual assessment.
The choice between a breast lift with or without an implant is always defined individually, in consultation.