What is Involved in a Breast Uplift?

Loss of skin elasticity combined with breastfeeding, age and gravity can all take their toll on a women's breasts, and as a result some opt for a mastopexy, or breast uplift (also known as skin mammoplasty). This surgical procedure does not remove breast tissue, instead it removes skin to make the breasts appear raised and firmer, and repositions the nipples. Women can also have implants inserted at the same time their breasts are being uplifted to make them larger as well as higher. In some cases an implant is recommended, especially if too much volume from the breast is lost as a result of the procedure.

Who is a Good Candidate for an Uplift?

Women whose breasts and nipples point downwards, are pendulous or suffer from insufficient size and shape are the best candidates. If your breasts are large, then they may start to sag again after the surgery, so women with smaller breasts usually see better results. Be aware that if you hope to lose a lot of weight in the near future you should inform your surgeon, as this may affect the future shape of your breasts. It may be a good idea to wait until you reach your desired body shape before having the operation. Women who have had a breast reduction have their breasts uplifted at the same time.

How Are Breast Uplifts Performed?

A breast uplift is a cosmetic procedure where slack, loose skin on the breast is removed and the nipple is repositioned, making the breasts appear rounder, fuller and perkier. It is carried out using general anaesthetic and at least an overnight stay in the hospital is recommended. Keep in mind that if you have a large areola the size of it can also be reduced to match the new shape of your breasts.

Will I Have Scars?

Yes, but in most cases the incision is made next to the nipple, to reduce the chance of it being too noticeable. The scar goes around the nipple, then under it to the breast's natural crease. While the scar is usually red, raised and fairly obvious following the operation, it should fade almost completely within a year. The good news is that the removal of some skin often means that some stretch marks are taken away as well.

Can I Breastfeed Following an Uplift?

It depends. Sometimes you can, if the milk ducts are left intact, but in other cases the milk glands are cut when the breast is repositioned. This is something to discuss with your surgeon, and in any case, you may wish to wait until after you give birth to have an uplift as pregnancy etc can affect breast shape and fullness.

What Are the Potential Complications?

Any operation involving general anaesthesia carries inherent risks. One of the biggest complications of this procedure is that scars may not fade, and you may have reduced sensation in the breast. Additionally, it is possible to suffer from breast lumpiness, although this also goes away in most cases. You will feel bruised and swollen for some weeks.

What about Aftercare?

An overnight hospital stay is required and the recovery period is about six weeks, with at least one week of special care with no lifting etc. A supportive sports-type bra, with no underwires, will be required to be worn for up to 12 weeks, and exercise should initially be kept to a minimum.

How Much is a Breast Uplift?

Costs vary, but expect to pay at least £3,200 for a private operation in a good UK clinic or hospital.

Women who have lost a lot of weight or breastfed their children often feel their breasts have lost their size and shape, and a breast uplift may entice to give them back their self-esteem and help them feel better about themselves and their bodies. But any plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery is not something to be taken lightly, so investigate all the options and research your surgeon before embarking on this road, and only use one who is certified by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. After all, you can't go back!