Breast lift (or mastopexy) offers renewed confidence and improved aesthetic comfort. The aim is to restore the shape and position of the breasts, often affected by age, pregnancy, weight variations or genetics.
Breast lift surgery
A breast lift (or mastopexy) is a well-considered decision for many women who aspire to regain firmness and curves, particularly after stages such as motherhood or significant weight loss. Beyond the aesthetic benefits, it offers relief from the discomfort of heavy breasts. The key lies in choosing a plastic surgeon who not only listens to your aspirations, but is also able to guide you towards the desired result.
Choosing a clinic that respects the highest standards of excellence also guarantees an experience marked by confidence and serenity. All in all, a confidence-boosting procedure in which know-how is essential.
2 to 3 hours
general anesthesia
about 2 weeks
discrete
Understanding a breast lift
A breast lift (or mastopexy) is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed in a day hospital under general anaesthetic to enhance and reshape the breasts. More than a simple correction, it offers a genuine transformation, a rebirth for many women. It can also reduce the size of the areola, which can enlarge over time.
The reasons for considering mastopexy are varied. Whether it’s to restore breast shape and volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss, or to relieve the physical discomfort caused by excessively heavy or sagging breasts, mastopexy offers a tailored, personalized solution.
In addition to enhancing the breasts, mastopexy can be performed in conjunction with breast augmentation to achieve the desired breast shape and size. This combination offers a complete solution for those seeking to improve both the shape and size of their breasts.
Breast lift: some important points
What are the different breast lift techniques?
- Anchor incision technique: This technique is generally used for women with a significant degree of ptosis. It involves three incisions: one around the areola, another vertically from the bottom of the areola to the fold, and a final one along the inframammary fold, resulting in an anchor shape. Excess skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped and the areola and nipple are repositioned at a higher level. If necessary, the size of the areola can be reduced. The resulting scars follow the incision lines and, although permanent, generally fade over time.
- Vertical incision technique: This technique, also known as the “lollipop breast lift”, is used for women with a moderate degree of ptosis. It requires two incisions: one around the areola and another running vertically down from the bottom of the areola to the fold of the breast. The same remodeling and repositioning steps are followed, but this technique results in less scarring than the anchor incision technique.
- Periareolar incision technique: This technique, often referred to as the “donut” breast lift, is generally reserved for women with a slight degree of ptosis. A single incision is made all around the areola. Excess skin is removed, and the areola and nipple are repositioned if necessary. This technique leaves the smallest scar, hidden along the edge of the areola.
In all cases, the surgeon strives to place incisions in areas where scars will be the least visible. Sutures are usually placed deep into the breast tissue to support newly formed breasts. Over time, the incision lines will fade and improve the overall aesthetic appearance.
Breast lift results
After mastopexy, patients can expect firmer, rounder, younger-looking breasts. The breasts will be repositioned higher on the chest and the areola and nipple will be placed in a more natural position. If an areola reduction has been performed, it will also be more proportional to the new breast size and shape.
Results are generally long-lasting, but not permanent. Breasts will continue to change naturally with age and due to factors such as gravity, weight fluctuations and pregnancy. However, with proper care, patients can maintain the results of their breast lift for many years.
Recovery after a breast lift
Recovery from mastopexy varies from patient to patient, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks of surgery. Immediately after the operation, the breasts will be bandaged or placed in a surgical bra. There may be some discomfort, as well as bruising and swelling, which will gradually disappear over the first few weeks.
Sutures are usually removed after about 2 weeks. Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Patients will receive detailed instructions on post-operative care, including how to care for the breasts after surgery, which medications to apply or take orally to help healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow up with the surgeon.
What are the possible risks and complications?
- Risks associated with mastopexy: As with any surgical procedure, mastopexy carries certain risks. These can include adverse reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infections, poor incision healing, changes in sensation in the breasts or nipples, and irregularities or asymmetries in breast shape and size. In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct these complications.
- Minimizing risks: It is important to note that these risks are relatively rare, and that measures are taken to minimize them. For example, a comprehensive pre-operative assessment is carried out to evaluate the patient’s general state of health and identify any factors that may increase the risk of complications. What’s more, the operation is performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon in a facility that meets the highest standards of patient care and surgical safety. After surgery, detailed instructions on post-operative care are provided to help prevent infection and promote rapid, uncomplicated healing. Finally, regular follow-up is carried out to monitor the healing process.
How much does a breast lift cost?
The cost of mastopexy in Belgium can vary considerably depending on a number of factors, such as the region, any implants used, the complexity of the operation and the surgeon‘s level of experience and reputation.
In Belgium, the cost of a breast augmentation generally varies between €3,500 and €6,500 including VAT (since January 1, 2016 the government has imposed a 21% VAT on cosmetic surgery in Belgium).
It’s a good idea to talk to several surgeons to obtain quotes and take into account all the costs associated with the operation, including anesthesia and post-operative expenses.
Who should have a breast lift?
A breast lift is particularly suitable for women who have experienced sagging breasts, with nipples that are at the same level as or below the breast crease. This procedure is also suitable for women whose breasts have sufficient volume but are drooping, or for those whose breast skin is too loose. For these women, mastopexy can offer firmer, higher breasts, improving their figure and self-confidence.
In addition, a breast lift can be a solution for women who want fuller, firmer breasts. In these cases, the procedure can be combined with the insertion of breast implants, offering volume augmentation in addition to enhancement.
Procedure for a breast lift
Preliminary consultation
Prior to any mastopexy operation, an in-depth individual consultation is required. The specialist then provides detailed information about the procedure, taking into account the needs and physical conditions of each patient. If the decision to proceed is made, additional appointments are scheduled to examine the breasts, discuss expectations and goals, and explain the surgical procedure in detail. An anesthesia consultation is also scheduled.
Choice of mastopexy technique
The size and shape of the breasts, the degree of ptosis (sagging), the size of the areola and the quality of the skin all influence the choice of mastopexy technique. After a thorough interview, the doctor will decide on the most appropriate technique. Common techniques include anchor incision, vertical incision and periareolar incision, all performed under general anesthesia.
Choice of remodeling technique
Depending on the current state of the breasts and the patient’s objectives, different remodelling techniques can be used:
- Remodeling alone: If the breasts have sufficient volume but are sagging, the plastic surgeon can simply remove the excess skin and reposition the breasts and areolas.
- Remodeling with augmentation: If the breasts are sagging and lack volume, the surgeon can combine mastopexy with breast augmentation. This involves inserting implants or using autologous fat to increase breast volume.
- Remodeling with reduction: If the breasts are sagging and too large, the plastic surgeon can combine mastopexy with breast reduction. This involves the removal of excess breast tissue in addition to excess skin.
Each procedure is customized to meet the specific needs of each patient.
The surgical procedure
The mastopexy procedure takes around two to three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Typically, the surgeon makes incisions in the breasts, removes excess skin and tissue, and repositions the breasts and areolas to create a more youthful, elevated appearance. Because every woman is different, the precise technique used for mastopexy will vary according to the current size and shape of the breasts, the amount of skin to be removed, and the patient’s aesthetic goals.
After the operation, the body’s natural healing process begins. This can sometimes lead to rigidity and changes in breast shape. However, with proper care and regular follow-up, these effects can be minimized, and mastopexy results can be maintained for many years.
Immediate post-operative care
Mastopexy, performed under general anesthesia, takes around two to three hours for the procedure, anesthesia and recovery. Once the operation is over, you will be monitored in your room for a few hours before being allowed to return home, with a prescription for oral analgesics. We ask that you be accompanied when you return home. Our medical team will also ensure rigorous post-operative follow-up and will remain at your disposal should you have any questions or concerns.
Post-operative follow-up is necessary with the surgeon who performed the mastopexy operation. A consultation is usually organized soon after surgery to assess wound healing, and again two or three weeks later. A six-week check-up is also planned to examine the shape of the breast, and a six-month check-up is recommended. Follow-up care is generally specific to each surgeon and may vary slightly on a case-by-case basis.
Following the operation, you may experience a feeling of tension or tightness in the chest, due to the reorganization of breast tissue and the healing process. Wearing a compression bra day and night for six to eight weeks after surgery is recommended (to be adapted according to the surgeon).
The incisions, which vary in size and position depending on the mastopexy technique used, are usually covered with a watertight dressing, allowing you to shower the day after the operation. Sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed. It may take several weeks, or even months, to see the final result of the procedure. During this period, the breasts will stabilize and scars will begin to fade.
The result
The results of a breast lift are generally visible immediately after the operation. However, the healing process is gradual, and final results may not be apparent for several months. During this period, the breasts will stabilize and scars will begin to fade. After mastopexy, patients can expect to see firmer, rounder, younger-looking breasts. The breasts will be repositioned higher on the chest, and the areola and nipple will be placed in a more natural position.
If an areola reduction has been performed, it will also be more proportional to the new breast size and shape. The results of mastopexy are generally long-lasting, but not permanent. Breasts will continue to change naturally with age and due to factors such as gravity, weight fluctuations and pregnancy. However, with proper care, you can maintain the results of your breast lift for many years to come.
The cost of breast surgery
FAQ
Does a breast lift leave scars?
Yes, mastopexy leaves scars, but their size and location depend on the surgical technique used. Scars generally fade over time and can be easily hidden under a bra or swimsuit.
Does a breast lift affect breastfeeding?
Mastopexy can potentially affect breastfeeding, especially if the procedure involves an incision around the areola. However, many women are still able to breastfeed after mastopexy. If you plan to have children and breastfeed in the future, discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation.
Can a breast lift correct breast asymmetry?
Yes, mastopexy can be used to correct breast asymmetry. By reshaping and repositioning the breasts, the surgeon can create a more symmetrical appearance.
What is the best age for a breast lift?
There is no “ideal” age for mastopexy. The decision to undergo mastopexy depends on many factors, including your general health, your aesthetic goals, and whether you plan to have children in the future.