Mastopexy reshapes and elevates the breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple-areola complex, without significantly changing breast volume.

What is mastopexy?

A mastopexy, or breast lift, addresses ptosis — drooping of the breasts that develops over time due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or natural changes with ageing. The procedure removes loose skin, reshapes the underlying breast tissue, and lifts the nipple-areola to a higher position on the chest.

For patients who have also lost volume in the upper pole of the breast, a mastopexy may be combined with an augmentation — this is discussed on the augmentation page.

Who is it for?

Mastopexy is typically considered by patients who are satisfied with their breast size but want to address:

  • Drooping of the breasts
  • Nipples sitting below the breast fold
  • Loss of upper-pole fullness or shape
  • Elongated, stretched breast shape after pregnancy or weight loss

Recovery

Mastopexy is typically performed as a day case or with a single overnight stay. A supportive surgical bra is worn during recovery. Strenuous activity is restricted for approximately six weeks. Scars mature over 12–18 months.

Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.

All surgical procedures carry potential risks and complications, which will be discussed in detail at your consultation.

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Considering a breast lift?

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