Breast Uplift/ Mastopexy
Waterfront Hospital Edinburgh, Scotland
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes and tightens the skin around the breasts, leading to a lifting of the breasts.
Changes in weight, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the ageing process can lead to loss of skin elasticity and sagging and drooping breasts. Breast lift surgery may be a good option if you want to restore a more youthful and uplifted appearance.
Overview
Breast uplift
- TYPE OF ANAESTHETIC
General - LENGTH OF SURGERY
2-3 Hours - HOSPITAL STAY
Day surgery - RECOVERY
1-2 weeks off work, 6 weeks before strenuous exercise
What the procedure involves
Our approach to breast uplift surgery at Waterfront Private Hospital is meticulous and patient-focused, involving the following key stages:
- Consultation and Customised Planning: Each procedure starts with a detailed consultation to understand the patient’s goals and to tailor the surgery to their specific needs.
- Incision Techniques: Depending on the individual’s breast size and degree of sagging, one of several incision patterns is available. This could be around the areola (peri-areola), extending vertically down from the areola to the breast crease (lollipop), or horizontally along the breast crease (anchor-shaped).
- Lifting and Reshaping: Excess skin is removed, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a more youthful height, and breast tissue is reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness. Some heavier breast tissue may be removed.
- Advanced Closure Techniques: Incisions are closed with care to minimise scarring, using techniques that promote healing and maintain the improved breast shape.
Benefits and expected outcomes
Enhanced Physical Appearance
- Youthful Breast Position and Shape: Mastopexy raises and reshapes the breasts, including repositioning the nipple and areola.
- Improved Symmetry: Addresses size and shape asymmetry for a balanced look.
- Contoured Profile: Reshapes breast tissue for an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Psychological and Emotional Gains
- Increased Confidence: Patients often report a boost in self-esteem and body confidence, enhancing overall self-image.
- Greater Body Image Satisfaction: Improved breast shape can produce more positive body perception.
Lifestyle Benefits
- Expanded Wardrobe Choices: Enables comfort in various clothing and swimwear styles.
- Comfort in Physical Activities: Alleviates discomfort in activities, especially for those with significant sagging.
Long-Term Results
- Lasting Outcomes: Results are durable, with scarring that fades over time.
- Skin Irritation Relief: Reduces under-breast skin irritation.
Post-Pregnancy and Weight Loss Enhancement
- Rejuvenation After Pregnancy: Ideal for post-pregnancy breast changes.
- Restoration After Weight Loss: Suitable for sagging breasts post-weight loss.
Before and after breast uplift
Who is an ideal candidate?
Ideal candidates for a breast uplift include:
- Women with sagging breasts due to ageing, weight loss, or post-pregnancy changes.
- Those in good overall health, non-smokers, and with realistic expectations.
- Patients close to their ideal body weight with well-maintained weight.
- Women who have completed their families or those with no plans to start a family soon.
Risks and considerations
Specific Risks of Breast Lift Surgery
- Bleeding: There’s a small chance (less than 1 in 20 patients) that bleeding might require a return to surgery.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection, though it’s typically manageable with appropriate care.
- Delayed Wound Healing: Some patients may experience slower healing at the incision sites.
- Fat Necrosis: This involves the loss of fat tissue due to a lack of blood supply.
- Changes in Nipple Sensitivity: Some patients may experience increased or reduced nipple sensitivity post-surgery.
- Pull on the Nipples: Adjustments made during the surgery may create a pull or tension on the nipples.
- Nipple Loss: Although rare, there is a risk of partial or total loss of the nipple.
- Breastfeeding: The ability to breastfeed post-surgery may be affected, depending on the extent of the surgery.
- Asymmetry: While the goal is symmetry, perfect symmetry isn’t always achievable.
- Scarring: Scars are an inevitable outcome of surgery but are strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible.
- Under or Over Correction: There is a risk of not achieving the desired lift or shape.
- Revision Surgery: A small number of patients (less than 1 in 30) may require minor revision surgery, usually under local anaesthesia.
Waterfront Private Hospital is committed to the highest patient safety and care standards. Understanding these risks and having a comprehensive discussion during the consultation helps ensure informed decisions and optimal outcomes.
Further reading: BAAPS – Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)
Aftercare and recovery
Post-surgery, patients may experience swelling and discomfort, which typically subside within a few weeks. Recovery instructions include wearing a support bra and avoiding strenuous activities. Most patients return to regular activities within several weeks. We provide ongoing support and follow-up care to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Frequently asked questions about breast uplift
How Much Does Breast Uplift Surgery Cost in Scotland?
Waterfront Private Hospital’s guide price for breast uplift surgery is approximately £7000. This cost includes the surgical procedure, anaesthesia, and necessary aftercare.
How Long Is the Recovery Period After a Breast Uplift?
Recovery varies, but generally, patients can return to work and normal activities within a few weeks. Complete healing and fading of scars may take several months.
Will Breast Uplift Surgery Affect My Ability to Breastfeed?
The ability to breastfeed after a breast uplift can be affected, especially if the milk ducts are disturbed during surgery. It’s an important consideration for women planning future pregnancies.
Can a Breast Uplift Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Yes, breast uplifts are often combined with breast augmentation (breast implants) for added volume or with breast reduction for comfort and proportionality.
How Long Do the Results of a Breast Uplift Last?
While the results are long-lasting, they are not immune to the effects of ageing, gravity and future pregnancies. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results.
How Is Breast Uplift Different from Breast Augmentation?
Breast uplift (mastopexy) primarily raises and reshapes sagging breasts, while breast augmentation increases breast size using implants. The two can be combined for added lift and volume.
Will My Breast Size Change After an Uplift?
A breast uplift aims to improve the shape and position of the breasts rather than significantly alter their size. Even if no breast tissue is removed, the breasts can appear smaller and more compact as they are lifted.
Can I Undergo a Breast Uplift If I Have a History of Breast Cancer?
It’s crucial to discuss your complete medical history during the consultation. A breast uplift may be possible but will be carefully considered based on your individual health and recovery history.
Is It Possible to Achieve Perfect Symmetry with a Breast Uplift?
While significant improvements in symmetry are achievable, absolute perfect symmetry is impossible. The goal is to create a natural and more aesthetically pleasing breast shape.
How Should I Choose the Right Surgeon for My Breast Uplift?
It’s important to choose a surgeon who is board-certified, experienced in breast uplift procedures, and whom you feel comfortable with. Checking before-and-after photos of their previous work can also be helpful.
How Noticeable Will the Scars Be?
Scars from a breast uplift are permanent but will fade over time. They are typically hidden under the natural contours of the breasts or around the areola.
What Kind of Anesthesia Is Used During the Procedure?
General anaesthesia is commonly used for breast uplift surgery to ensure patient comfort and safety during the procedure.
What Happens During the Initial Consultation?
The initial consultation involves a physical examination, a discussion of your aesthetic goals, a review of your medical history, and an explanation of the procedure, risks, recovery, and expected outcomes.
How Soon After Pregnancy Can I Undergo a Breast Uplift?
It’s recommended to wait at least 6 months after completing breastfeeding to allow your breasts to stabilize in size and shape before undergoing a breast uplift.
What Are the Limitations of a Breast Uplift?
While a breast uplift can significantly enhance the appearance of sagging breasts, it does not stop the natural ageing process, and some degree of sagging might occur over time. A breast uplift will also not provide much fullness in the upper part of the breasts.
Breast Lift Experience
After having my child and losing weight, my breasts were sagging and I had lots of loose skin. I knew I wanted a breast lift. I spent a long time researching websites such as RealSelf. Being able to see Mr Quaba’s before/after photos and reviews was definitely a positive influence on booking a consultation with him.
During the first consultation, Mr Quaba was really understanding of my concerns/wishes/results and realistic about the outcomes of a breast lift. We discussed other options I.e implants but I ultimately wanted a natural look so opted for a breast lift with reduction. He allowed plenty of time for questions as well as explaining surgery/aftercare, I never once felt pressured into a decision.
Unfortunately my results weren’t exactly how I expected, one of my breast was bigger than the other. I expressed my concerns and Mr Quaba was very honest. He explained he felt more tissue needed to be removed at the time of the procedure for both to be even but agreed at 3 months that one breast was bigger. As I wasn’t 100% happy with the outcome, we discussed options around revision. He was so understanding was ultimately just wanted a happy patient! He was always available to answer questions/concerns during the recovery process.
I went for the revision and I can honestly say it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I am so pleased with the outcome! My confidence has grown so much thanks to Mr Quaba. He was always so understanding and approachable. Although the full experience wasn’t entirely what I expected, I felt listened to and ultimately have the outcome I’ve always wished for.
Thank you also to Quaba’s admin staff who were great!
Rebecca
Nov 2023
