A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Unlike a breast augmentation, a standard lift does not significantly change the size of the breasts; it simply repositions them to a more youthful, “perky” height.
Key Benefits
Restores Shape: Elevates breasts that have sagged due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
Repositions Nipples: Moves nipples and areolas to a higher, forward-facing position.
Reduces Areola Size: Can shrink enlarged areolas for a more proportionate look.
Improved Symmetry: Can correct instances where one breast sits lower than the other.
Common Surgical Techniques
The type of incision used depends on the degree of sagging (ptosis).
| Technique | Degree of Sagging | Incision Description |
| Crescent Lift | Minimal | A small, half-moon incision along the top edge of the areola. |
| Donut (Peri-areolar) | Mild to Moderate | A circular incision around the entire edge of the areola. |
| Lollipop (Vertical) | Moderate | One circle around the areola and one vertical line down to the breast crease. |
| Anchor (Inverted-T) | Severe | Includes the lollipop incisions plus a horizontal line along the breast crease. |
Recovery and Results
Timeline: Most patients return to light activity and work within 1–2 weeks. Full recovery and the “settling” of the breast shape can take 2–3 months.
Exercise: You must typically avoid heavy lifting and high-impact exercise (like running) for at least 4–6 weeks.
Scarring: While scars are permanent, they are strategically placed to be hidden by bras and swimsuits. They usually fade from red to thin white lines over 12–18 months.
Longevity: Results can last for many years, though gravity and aging will continue to have an effect. Significant weight fluctuations or future pregnancies can also alter the results.
Considerations & Risks
As with any major surgery, there are risks such as temporary numbness in the nipples, asymmetry, or scarring issues. It is also important to note that if you want more volume (fullness at the top), you may need to combine the lift with a breast augmentation (implants).