Breast uplift

What is a breast uplift?

A breast uplift (mastopexy) is an operation to remove excess skin from your breasts to improve their shape.

What are the benefits of surgery?

Your breasts should have a better shape.

Are there any alternatives to a breast uplift?

Using padded bras or inserts can make your breasts appear to have a better shape.

If there is not much excess skin and your breasts are not droopy, your surgeon may be able to assess you for a breast augmentation.

If you have a large breast size, your surgeon may be able to assess you for a breast reduction.

What does the operation involve?

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours.

Your surgeon will make a cut on the line of the areola (the darker area around your nipple) and a vertical cut underneath your areola. They will remove excess skin and reshape your breast tissue. Your surgeon will lift your nipple so it is in a higher position.

How can I prepare myself for the operation?

If you smoke, stopping smoking now may reduce your risk of developing complications and will improve your long-term health.

Try to maintain a healthy weight. You have a higher risk of developing complications if you are overweight.

Regular exercise should help to prepare you for the operation, help you to recover and improve your long-term health. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

If you have not had the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine, you may be at an increased risk of serious illness related to COVID-19 while you recover. Speak to your doctor or healthcare team if you would like to have the vaccine.

What complications can happen?

Some complications can be serious and can even cause death.

General complications of any operation

• bleeding
• infection of the surgical site (wound)
• allergic reaction to the equipment, materials or medication
• blood clot in your leg
• blood clot in your lung
• chest infection

Specific complications of this operation

• developing a collection of blood (haematoma) or fluid (seroma) inside a breast
• developing a lump
• numbness or continued pain on the outer part of your breast
• stiff shoulder
• loss of skin, including the areola and nipple
• change of breast and nipple sensation
• reduced ability to breastfeed
• cosmetic problems

Consequences of this procedure

• pain
• unsightly scarring of your skin

How soon will I recover?

You should be able to go home the same day.

You should be able to return to normal activities after 2 to 3 weeks.

You should be able to return to work after 2 weeks, depending on your type of work.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

The results of a breast uplift improve gradually over the first 6 months. Your breasts should become softer and more natural, and the scars should fade.