Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift (or mastopexy) can be considered a form of aesthetic breast rejuvenation surgery. This operation is used to correct sagging breasts or breast ptosis, which can occur after pregnancy, during the aging process or as a result of breast malformations such as tuberous breasts. It can be performed while maintaining the same volume, or in combination with breast reduction or augmentation. Also known as mastopexy, it enhances the breasts to give patients a more dynamic, harmonious silhouette.
Definition of breast lift
Breast lift, also known as mastopexy or breast ptosis cure, is a procedure that lifts and reshapes the breasts, correcting sagging caused by progressive loss of mammary gland volume and sagging skin.
This normal physiological process, known as breast ptosis, is often accelerated by pregnancy and major weight fluctuations. Breast ptosis is also quite common in patients with tuberous breast deformities.
In some cases, the use of an implant or fat transfer (lipofilling) is necessary to recover lost volume and improve the overall shape of the breast, while preserving the volume of your décolleté.
Do I qualify for a breast lift?
A breast lift is intended for patients with noticeable sagging of the breasts. This natural phenomenon usually develops gradually over time. Breast ptosis can also be congenital, occurring in adolescence, often as part of a tuberous malformation. Mastopexy is indicated for any woman wishing to regain a firmer, better-positioned bust without necessarily modifying its volume.
How do I prepare for a breast lift?
Before a breast lift, it is essential to discuss your expectations and medical history with your surgeon. This will enable him/her to suggest the treatment best suited to your needs. As with any surgical procedure, it is advisable to stop smoking, avoid certain medications that may increase the risk of bleeding, and follow a balanced diet to promote a good recovery. A medical check-up, breast ultrasound and mammogram will be prescribed before the operation.
About the procedures available to correct breast ptosis?
The degree of ptosis determines the choice of technique and the resulting type of scar.
Periareolar mastopexy provides a moderate lift, raising the nipple by no more than 1 to 2 cm. The scar is hidden at the junction between the breast skin and the areola. This procedure can also be used to correct any pre-existing asymmetry of the areola.
Vertical mastopexy is proposed for moderate ptosis. The scar is hidden around the areola, with an extension into the lower part of the breast that may extend as far as the infra-mammary fold, depending on the amount of excess skin in the lower pole of the breast.
Inverted-T or anchor mastopexy is indicated in more advanced ptosis. The scar is the same as for vertical mastopexy, with the addition of a more or less extensive scar in the inframammary-infra-mammary fold.
All these techniques may or may not be combined with volume augmentation. If necessary, volume augmentation using silicone implants or autologous fat transfer can be recommended.
During your consultation at Leman Aesthetic Clinic, the surgeon will advise you on the technique best suited to your needs. If necessary, you will be advised to undergo volume augmentation with a silicone implant or autologous fat transfer.
Breast lift: what happens during surgery at Leman Aesthetic Clinic?
Periareolar mastopexy (scar around the areola)
Duration: 1-2 hours
Anesthesia: General, sometimes local with sedation
Hospital stay: Outpatient or 1 night
Time off work: 7-10 days
Vertical mastopexy (vertical scar)
Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours
Anaesthesia: General
Hospitalization: Outpatient or 24 hours
Time off work: 5-10 days
Classic mastopexy (inverted-T scar)
Duration: 2.-3.5 hours
Anesthesia: General
Hospitalization: 24 hours or Outpatient
Time off work: 7-14 days
Recovery after a breast lift
Post-operative recovery is generally painless, and you will have been prescribed a simple analgesic during your pre-operative consultation. A lightly compressive dressing (known as a crossed heart) will be applied for 24 hours. The following day, dressings will be applied at the clinic or surgery to assess the scars. A watertight dressing will be applied to allow a quick daily shower. A support bra is applied the following day for 6 weeks, to be worn continuously. The duration and visibility of breast lift scars vary according to the technique used and the degree of ptosis. Appropriate post-operative care, including wearing a support bra and stopping strenuous physical activity for 1 month, is essential for proper healing.
What are the possible risks after a breast lift?
As with any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, reactions to anesthesia, visible scars, breast asymmetry or temporary loss of sensation in the nipples. The surgeon will also advise you if you wish to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future. These adverse events are very rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon.
Results of a breast lift
The results of a breast lift are generally visible immediately after the procedure, with continued improvement over the first 3 months as swelling diminishes and scars fade. The breasts appear firmer, better positioned and the silhouette more harmonious. Breast rejuvenation restores self-confidence and well-being, improving quality of life and social relationships.
How much does a breast lift in Leman Aesthetic Clinic cost?
The price of a breast lift in Leman Aesthetic Clinic varies according to the complexity of the procedure, the volume modification and the specific needs of each patient. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will provide you with a personalized quote based on your situation.