Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift raises sagging breasts to a higher, firmer position by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. The nipple and areola are moved up and made smaller when needed, and implants can be added if volume has also been lost.

Why Breasts Sag

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, large weight changes, loss of skin elasticity with age and genetics all contribute to sagging. How far the breasts have dropped is judged by where the nipple sits compared with the fold beneath the breast. Mild sagging can be corrected with shorter incisions, while advanced sagging needs more extensive reshaping.

Who It Suits

A lift suits healthy women with a stable weight who are bothered by sagging or loss of breast shape. If the breasts have also lost volume, an implant can be added; if they are both large and sagging, a breast reduction may be the better choice. Surgery is postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if a pregnancy or major weight loss is planned soon, or with an uncontrolled illness, and it is not recommended for people who cannot stop smoking.

How the Operation Is Done

The operation takes about two hours, usually under general anesthesia, with one night in hospital. Depending on the degree of sagging, the incision runs around the areola only, continues down vertically to the breast fold, or takes an inverted-T shape along the fold for advanced sagging. The breast tissue is lifted and reshaped and the nipple is moved to its new position, in most techniques while staying attached to the tissue beneath it. At the consultation with plastic surgeon Op. Dr. Toygar Ünveren, the scar each incision leaves is explained in advance.

Recovery

Swelling, tightness and tenderness are normal at first, and a wire-free supportive bra is worn for several weeks. Most women return to desk work after about a week, while heavy lifting and chest-intensive sport wait a few weeks. The breasts take a few months to reach their final shape, and scars that look red and raised early on fade over time.

Risks to Discuss

Bleeding, infection, slow wound healing, changes in nipple sensation, small differences between the breasts and visible scars can occur. Problems with the blood supply to the nipple are rare but more likely in smokers. Because aging and gravity continue, some sagging can return over the years; keeping a stable weight helps the result last. A change in nipple color, fever or rapidly increasing swelling in one breast needs prompt medical care.

Planning Your Trip to Istanbul

If you are traveling from abroad, the first consultation can be held remotely before you book your trip, so you arrive with a clear plan. Plan for one night in hospital and a follow-up check before you fly; front-opening clothes make the first days easier.

Book a Consultation

Interested in Breast Lift? Contact us to schedule a personalised consultation with our specialists.