Mastopexy / Breast Lift

What is Mastopexy?

Mastopexy, also known as breast lift, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape breasts that have lost firmness and developed ptosis (sagging). This surgery repositions the nipple-areola complex, removes excess skin, and reshapes the breast tissue to create a more youthful and aesthetic contour.

Unlike breast augmentation with implants, mastopexy does not significantly increase breast volume, but rather improves their position and shape. However, both procedures (mastopexy with implants) can be combined when both lifting and increasing breast size are desired.

Ideal Candidates

The best candidates for mastopexy are women who:

• Have sagging or drooping breasts (ptosis)
• Have breasts that have lost shape and elasticity
• Have nipples that point downward or fall below the inframammary fold
• Have experienced changes in their breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or aging
• Maintain a stable weight
• Do not plan further pregnancies or breastfeeding (ideally)
• Have realistic expectations about the results
• Are in good general health
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery

It is important to understand that mastopexy will leave permanent scars, although these are strategically placed to minimize visibility.

Degrees of Breast Ptosis

Surgeons classify breast sagging into different degrees to determine the most appropriate surgical technique:

Grade I (Mild ptosis)

• The nipple is at the level of the inframammary fold
• Can be treated with minimal scar techniques

Grade II (Moderate ptosis)

• The nipple is below the inframammary fold but still above the lowest point of the breast
• Requires more extensive techniques

Grade III (Severe ptosis)

• The nipple is well below the inframammary fold and points downward
• Needs more complex techniques with greater reshaping

Pseudoptosis

• The nipple is in a normal position but there is excess skin and tissue below the nipple

Surgical Techniques

There are different mastopexy techniques, each resulting in different scar patterns:

Periareolar or "donut" technique

• Ideal for mild ptosis
• Scar only around the areola
• Limited lift
• Less reshaping capacity

Vertical or "lollipop" technique

• For moderate ptosis
• Scar around the areola and vertically down to the inframammary fold
• Greater lift and reshaping capacity

Anchor or "inverted T" technique

• For severe ptosis with significant excess skin
• Scar around the areola, vertical and horizontal in the inframammary fold
• Maximum lift and reshaping capacity
• Most complete technique for complex cases

Autoprosthesis or auto-augmentation technique

• Uses the patient's own breast tissue to create upper pole volume
• Indicated when there is enough lower tissue that can be repositioned
• Avoids the need for implants

Surgical Procedure

Mastopexy is generally performed as follows:

1. General anesthesia or deep sedation with local anesthesia
2. Precise preoperative breast markings while the patient is standing
3. Incisions according to the chosen technique
4. Elevation and reshaping of breast tissue
5. Repositioning of the nipple-areola complex to a more youthful height
6. Removal of excess skin
7. Closure of incisions in multiple layers to minimize tension
8. Placement of drains (not always necessary)
9. Application of dressings and postoperative support

If combined with implants (augmentation-mastopexy), these are usually inserted after reshaping the tissue but before final closure.

The procedure typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on case complexity and whether augmentation is combined.

Recovery and Results

First week

• Use of surgical bra or compression garment 24 hours a day
• Moderate discomfort manageable with medication
• Swelling and possible bruising
• Limited arm movement and physical activities
• Recommendation to sleep with the torso slightly elevated

2-3 weeks

• Return to non-physical work activities
• Noticeable reduction in swelling
• Removal of sutures (if not absorbable)
• Possible persistence of sensitivity and discomfort

4-6 weeks

• Gradual return to moderate physical activities
• Change from surgical bra to non-wired sports bras

3 months

• More defined results
• Return to full physical activity
• Scars begin their maturation process (will continue to improve up to 12-18 months)

6-12 months

• Final result visible
• Complete tissue settling
• Scars continue to lighten and flatten

The results of mastopexy are immediately visible, but the final shape of the breasts and the appearance of scars evolve over months as swelling decreases and tissues settle.

Longevity of Results

The results of mastopexy can be long-lasting, but it is important to understand that breasts will continue to experience the natural effects of:

• Gravity
• Aging
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Weight changes
• Future pregnancies

To maintain long-term results, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a stable weight
• Use adequate support bras, especially during physical activity
• Avoid direct sun exposure on scars
• Follow healthy habits such as not smoking and staying well hydrated

Combination with Other Procedures

Mastopexy is frequently combined with:

Breast augmentation with implants

• When both lifting and increasing volume are desired
• Requires careful planning to prevent complications

Breast reduction

• When, in addition to lifting, volume reduction is needed
• The technique is similar but with greater tissue resection

Liposuction of adjacent areas

• To improve contour in the lateral chest or axillary rolls
• Complements the new breast shape for a more harmonious result

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, mastopexy carries certain risks, including:

• Visible scars (the most significant risk)
• Asymmetry
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation
• Difficulty with future breastfeeding
• Tissue necrosis (very rare)
• Hematoma or seroma
• Infection
• Problems related to healing
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic results
• Anesthetic complications

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, we minimize these risks through advanced surgical techniques, meticulous planning, and thorough postoperative follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to breastfeed after mastopexy?

Many women can breastfeed after mastopexy, although there is a possibility that breastfeeding ability may be affected. Procedures that preserve the connection between the nipple-areola complex and glandular tissue are more likely to maintain this function.

Will the scars disappear completely?

Scars do not disappear completely, but improve significantly over time. After 12-18 months, they usually lighten and flatten. We use advanced suture techniques and recommend postoperative treatments that optimize scar appearance.

How long do the results last?

Results can last for many years, but breasts continue to change over time due to aging and gravity. Subsequent pregnancies, weight fluctuations, and certain hormones can affect the longevity of results.

Will I need implants with my mastopexy?

It depends on your goals. If you are satisfied with your breast size but want to improve their position and shape, mastopexy without implants may be sufficient. If you want more volume in addition to lift, combining with implants is recommended.

Is recovery painful?

Most patients describe moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. The main discomfort is usually a feeling of pressure and tightness in the breasts, which improves significantly after the first few days.

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, we perform a detailed analysis of your specific needs to personalize each mastopexy procedure, ensuring natural and harmonious results that enhance your beauty and confidence.