What is Mastopexy?
Mastopexy (breast uplift) reshapes and elevates a drooping (ptotic) breast, repositioning the nipple and areola to a more natural height and creating a firmer, more youthful breast shape. Unlike breast reduction, mastopexy does not significantly remove breast tissue — it reshapes and re-suspends what is already there. However, the two procedures can be combined when both volume reduction and a lift are desired.
Breast ptosis develops for a variety of reasons: pregnancy and breastfeeding stretch the skin and ligaments; weight fluctuation causes changes in volume and elasticity; and the natural effects of gravity and ageing act on all breasts over time. Many women who have had implants placed also notice increasing ptosis as the implants age and the surrounding tissue changes.
Mr. Blackburn assesses each patient's degree of ptosis, skin quality, breast volume and overall anatomy at consultation, and discusses the scar pattern and technique most likely to produce the best long-term result for each individual.
Combining Mastopexy with Augmentation or Fat Grafting
For patients who feel their breasts lack both shape and volume, mastopexy can be combined with augmentation implants (augmentation mastopexy) or with fat grafting to restore fullness in the upper pole. This is a more complex combined procedure, and Mr. Blackburn will discuss the risks, benefits and realistic expectations carefully at consultation for patients who are considering both procedures together.
Mastopexy is also commonly performed at the time of implant removal — helping to restore breast shape and position for patients who are having implants taken out, whether for implant illness, rupture, or personal choice.
Scar Patterns
The choice of scar pattern depends on the degree of ptosis and the breast shape to be achieved. Minor degrees of ptosis may be correctable through a periareolar (round-the-areola) technique alone. More significant drooping requires a vertical (lollipop) pattern, and the most substantial corrections use a full anchor (Wise-pattern) scar. All scars are planned to sit within a bra or bikini top, and Mr. Blackburn discusses their precise position at consultation before any commitment is made.
Recovery
Most patients go home the day of surgery or the morning after. Light activities resume within a few days, and most patients return to desk-based work within 2–3 weeks. A supportive bra is worn for 6 weeks. Upper body exercise is avoided for 6 weeks. Swelling resolves over 6–8 weeks, and scars continue to mature over 12–18 months.
- Reshapes and repositions the breast and nipple
- Periareolar, vertical or full anchor scar patterns
- Can be combined with implants or fat grafting for added volume
- Suitable after pregnancy, weight loss, ageing or implant removal
- New Victoria Hospital Kingston & Mount Alvernia Guildford