Mastopexy: what you need to know about breast-lift surgery.

Mastopexy, also called breast lift, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and firm the breasts when they have sagged. This laxity can result from various factors, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, ageing or significant weight loss. Although it has no vital medical purpose, this procedure is performed for aesthetic reasons. It enables patients to regain a more balanced silhouette and enhance their personal well-being and daily comfort.

Results may vary according to several factors: the initial degree of sagging, the surgical technique used, the patient’s healing capacity, and adherence to postoperative care. The final breast appearance becomes visible after complete healing.

Before a mastopexy, a series of preoperative steps are required to ensure the procedure proceeds smoothly. First, a consultation with the plastic surgeon assesses your health, answers your questions and provides precise information about the operation. Medical tests, such as a blood test or a mammogram, are then prescribed to confirm no contraindications. Physical preparation is also necessary, including cessation of certain treatments, smoking, and reduction of alcohol intake. On a mental level, the discussion with the surgeon aims to reassure you and help you approach the procedure with confidence. All these steps are essential and must be followed without exception.

The preoperative consultation with the surgeon is a key step in mastopexy. It gathers patient information: expectations, medical history, allergies, current treatments. Once collected, the procedure can be scheduled. It begins with local or general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions that vary with the corrections required. The breasts are reshaped by removing excess skin, lifting tissue, and, if needed, inserting implants. The nipples and areolas can be repositioned. The incisions are closed with sutures and covered with dressings. The operation lasts two to three hours, after which the postoperative recovery phase begins.

Each patient who undergoes mastopexy requires careful postoperative monitoring. After the procedure, the breasts are wrapped and the patient must wear a compression garment to reduce swelling. It is possible to experience a degree of pain or discomfort requiring analgesics.

After a mastopexy, it is important to rest. Physical activity should be stopped for several days. Avoid any exercise engaging the pectoral muscles. Incisions require specific care to ensure timely and proper healing. Hygiene and dressing instructions must be followed. Follow-up appointments should be scheduled after the procedure. They allow the surgeon to monitor each stage of healing and confirm the procedure’s success.

As with any surgical intervention, mastopexy carries risks and potential complications. Although it is considered safe, patients should be aware of possible adverse events. Among the most common complications is infection, which can occur despite precautions to maintain a sterile environment during surgery. Haematomas, or collections of blood beneath the skin, may also develop, causing swelling and requiring additional treatment.

The permanent scars are also possible side effects of mastopexy, although their appearance varies by individual and by the technique used by the surgeon. There is also a risk of altered sensitivity around the nipples and areola, which may result in temporary or permanent numbness.

The breast asymmetry is another risk, although surgeons take every precaution to achieve symmetrical results. It is important to note that natural differences between the two breasts may persist after surgery. Healing complications may occur in individuals with sensitive skin or a tendency to develop hypertrophic scars. Changes in the nipples, such as alterations in position or size, may occur. These risks are discussed during the preoperative consultation, where the surgeon outlines the possible scenarios and addresses the patient’s questions.

Signing the consent form is an important step in this process. It confirms the patient has been informed of the risks associated with surgery and accepts them before proceeding with the operation.

• SPECTOR J.A. & al. Mastopexy. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (2013).

• RAFFOUL W. & al. Systematic review of outcomes and complications in nonimplant-based mastopexy surgery. Journal of Plastic Aesthetic Reconstructive Surgery (2019).

• KUMBLA P. A. & al. Revision Breast Augmentation. Seminars in Plastic Surgery (2019).

• JOHNSON A.R. & al. Breast Lift with and without Implant: A Synopsis and Primer for the Plastic Surgeon. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2020).