Breast lift (mastopexy)
Mastopexy is surgery to lift sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the areolar complex without changing breast volume. It is indicated for ptosis that developed after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss.
A breast lift (mastopexy) is surgery to correct sagging mammary glands, during which excess skin is removed, the areolar complex is lifted and fixed, and a new breast contour is shaped without changing volume. The operation restores a youthful position to tissues that have descended after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss.
Indications
- Breast ptosis after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Loss of skin elasticity and descent of the areolar complex
- Age-related changes in breast shape
- Asymmetry of breast shape and position
- Desire to lift the breasts without increasing their volume
Contraindications
- Active infections or exacerbation of chronic disease
- Uncompensated cardiovascular disease, decompensated diabetes
- Breast tumours — until excluded and treatment is complete
- Acute and chronic breast disease in the active phase
- Pregnancy and lactation
How the operation goes
From the first consultation to follow-up visits.
Consultation: examination, ptosis degree assessment, photo planning, choice of technique (periareolar, vertical, anchor)
Work-up: lab tests, breast ultrasound, anaesthesiologist consultation
Surgery under general anaesthesia: excess skin removal, areolar complex lift and fixation, contour shaping
Inpatient observation — usually 1 day
Follow-up and suture removal at approximately days 7–14
Scheduled visits to monitor healing and assess the result
Week-by-week recovery
Timeframes are approximate: the individual recovery plan is set at the consultation.
Early post-operative period
Swelling and discomfort gradually decrease; compression garment, sleeping on the back.
Return to routine
Sutures removed; return to work without physical exertion.
Shaping period
Compression garment as prescribed; no lifting or intensive training.
Final result
Scars fade, the breasts settle into their final shape and stable position.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a breast lift cost?
The approximate price starts from $3000 (circular mastopexy). The exact cost is set at the consultation and depends on the degree of ptosis, technique and scope of surgery.
Are implants needed for mastopexy?
Not always. If there is enough tissue to shape the contour, the lift is performed without implants. If extra volume or upper-pole fullness is desired, augmentation with implants can be combined — the doctor discusses this at the consultation.
What will the scars look like?
It depends on the technique: with minimal ptosis — around the areola; with moderate — plus a vertical line; with significant — anchor (inverted-T). With proper care scars fade over 6–12 months.
How long does the result last?
The result is stable, but gravity and body changes (pregnancy, weight fluctuations) may lower the tissue again over time. Stable weight and supportive bras prolong the result.
When can I return to sports?
Walking — immediately after surgery, light exercise — after 3–4 weeks, full training with the doctor's approval — after 6–8 weeks.
Results: before and after
Before 
After 
Before 
After Other procedures in this area
Breast Augmentation (Mammoplasty)
Surgery to increase or reshape the breasts using implants, sometimes combined with lipofilling (fat transfer). It suits women who wish to restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or to change the size and shape of their breasts.
Breast reduction
Reduction mammoplasty is surgery to reduce breast volume by removing excess tissue and repositioning the areolar complex. It is indicated for macromastia accompanied by back and neck pain, skin irritation and restricted activity.
Consultation with the surgeon
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