Breast Lift

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is an aesthetic surgery procedure designed to correct breast ptosis (sagging) and restore a higher, more harmonious position and shape to the breasts. It is suited to patients who notice a loss of firmness, sagging following pregnancy, significant weight loss, or skin ageing. The goal is to achieve a natural, harmonious result adapted to each patient's anatomy and expectations. The information below is intended for general guidance and does not replace an individual consultation with the surgeon.

The Different Techniques

Mastopexy without implants

• Indication: moderate to severe ptosis when breast volume is satisfactory.
• Main scar techniques:
• Peri-areolar scar (or "round" scar): suited to mild ptosis and areola correction.
• Vertical scar (or "lollipop"): scar around the areola and vertically down to the inframammary fold, often used for moderate ptosis.
• Anchor scar (or "inverted T"): scar around the areola, vertical and horizontal along the inframammary fold, used for marked ptosis and significant skin excess.
• Advantages and limitations: reshapes the skin and glandular tissue without adding artificial volume. Scars improve over time but remain permanent.

Mastopexy with implants (lift + breast augmentation)

• Indication: ptosis combined with volume loss or a desire for augmentation.
• Specifics: combining an implant restores volume while simultaneously correcting ptosis and augmenting the breast. The choice of implant size, shape, and positioning is personalised.
• Limitations: adds the risks associated with implants (see the risks section).

Associated fat grafting (lipofilling)

• Indication: minor volume increases or improvement of tissue quality via autologous fat transfer.
• Specifics: a natural technique using the patient's own fat. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired volume.
• Limitations: limited volume and variable fat resorption.

Pre-operative Consultation

• Process: the initial consultation with the surgeon includes a medical history review (past medical history, smoking, medications, aesthetic goals), a detailed clinical breast examination (skin, volume, ptosis, asymmetries), and medical photography.
• Technical choice: the most appropriate surgical approach (type of scar, need for implants or fat grafting) is discussed and adapted to the patient's expectations and anatomical constraints.
• Additional tests: a blood panel and, depending on age or medical history, breast imaging (mammography or ultrasound) may be requested prior to surgery.
• Documents provided: written information, a detailed quote, and informed consent. The mandatory 15-day reflection period applies before any aesthetic surgery.

Procedure

• Anaesthesia: a breast lift is most often performed under general anaesthesia. Supplementary loco-regional anaesthesia may be offered.
• Duration: varies depending on the extent of the procedure and technique (generally 1.5 to 3 hours).
• Hospitalisation: day surgery (same-day discharge) or one night's hospitalisation depending on the case and post-operative monitoring required.
• General steps: pre-operative markings, incisions according to the chosen technique, reshaping of breast tissue, repositioning of the areola, possible implant placement or fat transfer, closure of incisions, and dressing.
• Safety and traceability: complete medical records, written consent, and organised post-operative follow-up.

Post-operative Recovery

• Pain and discomfort: moderate pain controlled by analgesic treatment. Feelings of tension and swelling are common in the first few days.
• Dressings and support: wearing a supportive bra day and night for several weeks, dressings, and scar follow-up.
• Rest and activities: return to work generally after 7 to 14 days depending on the nature of the job. Progressive resumption of sport and strenuous activity after 4 to 6 weeks, with medical approval.
• Monitoring: regular check-up appointments (48–72 hours, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year) to ensure proper healing and monitor results.

Results and Limitations

• Evolution: results are generally visible as post-operative swelling progressively subsides, then refine over several months. Scars fade over time but do not disappear completely.
• Variability: each patient evolves differently depending on age, skin quality, smoking habits, weight fluctuations, and subsequent events (pregnancy).
• Durability: mastopexy corrects ptosis, but natural ageing and weight variations may alter the appearance of the breasts over time. Medical follow-up is recommended.

Risks and Complications

• General risks: haematoma, infection, delayed healing, thrombosis, anaesthetic reaction.
• Specific risks: visible or hypertrophic scars, breast asymmetry, partial or total loss of areola sensation, rare skin necrosis, recurrence of ptosis, aesthetic imperfection possibly requiring revision.
• If implants are placed: risks of capsular contracture, implant displacement or rupture, and specific radiological monitoring.
• Information: these risks remain rare and will be detailed and explained during the pre-operative consultation.

Alternatives and Non-surgical Options

• Surgical alternatives: combination with implant augmentation, fat grafting alone for minor volume increases, or breast reduction if volume is excessive.
• Non-surgical options: supportive bras, dermatological treatments (radiofrequency, ultrasound) can slightly improve skin firmness but do not replace surgical correction in cases of significant ptosis.
• Limitations: non-invasive methods do not provide lasting lift comparable to surgical mastopexy.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the best technique for reducing areola size? Areola reduction can be performed during mastopexy, typically using a peri-areolar scar. The choice depends on the initial size and the other corrections required.

Is it possible to breastfeed after a breast lift? The ability to breastfeed may be preserved in many cases, but depends on the surgical technique and the extent of the reshaping. This point is discussed during the consultation if future breastfeeding is desired.

How long do the scars remain visible? Scars improve over the first year and then progressively fade over 18–24 months, but remain permanent. Appropriate care and follow-up help ensure their best possible evolution.

Is it necessary to stop smoking before the procedure? Yes. Smoking increases the risk of wound healing complications and delayed healing. It is strongly recommended to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and for several weeks after the procedure.