Breast Lift

When Might You Need a Breast Lift?

Breast lift surgery is most commonly performed on women who notice that their breasts are sagging, have lost shape, or appear empty. These changes occur due to several main reasons: after pregnancy and breastfeeding, when breasts change due to hormonal fluctuations and skin stretching; during the natural aging process, when skin elasticity decreases; after significant weight changes, especially after rapidly losing many kilograms; and also due to genetic factors, when breast shape and skin structure tend to change earlier.

One of the clearest signs that a breast lift could give a significant aesthetic improvement is the position of the nipples – if they have descended below the breast crease, this indicates sufficient breast descent worth correcting.

How is Breast Lift Surgery Performed?

The surgery is performed using general anesthesia and takes about 2-3 hours. First, excess breast skin is removed, lifting the nipples and areolas. After suturing the incision, the breast contour rises upward, creating the appearance of firmer breasts.

Before surgery, the surgeon carefully marks the locations of future incisions with the patient standing to achieve a symmetrical and natural result. During the operation, due to the changed position – with the patient lying down – these markings become particularly important. The surgeon not only removes excess skin but also reshapes and relocates breast glandular tissue, creating a new, optimal breast shape.

Depending on the condition of the breasts, reduction of the nipple and areola complex may be performed, giving it a proportional size according to the new breast shape. Wounds are sutured in several layers, using special sutures that help reduce the visibility of scars. At the end of the operation, the breasts are bandaged with special dressings.

After Breast Lift Surgery

Typically, after breast lift surgery, the patient can go home the next day and engage in simple activities that don't require much movement or strength. Although one can return to work after about a week, sports and other physically intense activities are allowed only after a month. During the postoperative period, temporary swelling and slightly elevated body temperature may occur.

To ensure smooth and painless recovery, patients are prescribed antibiotics and painkillers, the duration of which is determined individually. Sutures are removed two weeks after surgery, and a compression bra must be worn for 4-8 weeks to maintain the new breast shape and reduce swelling. To ensure that surgical scars whiten and become as inconspicuous as possible, it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds, and lymphatic drainage massage for six months after the procedure.

It's important to emphasize that each recovery process is very individual, so only the operating plastic surgeon can provide the most accurate information about postoperative care and the healing period.