About the procedure
Breastfeeding, weight changes and age cause the breast tissue to sag. Mastopexy removes excess skin, moves the nipple to its new position and reshapes the tissue.
Depending on the degree of sagging, an incision around the nipple only, a lollipop incision or an inverted-T incision is planned. In patients with volume loss, an implant is added.
In planning, the degree of sagging, the nipple position relative to the fold, skin quality, and the existing tissue volume are assessed together; the incision type is chosen accordingly, using the shortest possible option. The inner tissue is shaped by folding it onto itself (internal support); this way the breast is restored not merely by tightening the skin but by repositioning the tissue. If the volume is insufficient, the upper pole is supported with a small implant or your own fat.
- ✓The shortest incision plan for the degree of sagging
- ✓Can be combined with an implant
- ✓Long-lasting shape
Suitability
Who is it suitable for?
May be suitable
- ✓Women whose nipple has dropped to or below the fold level and who are satisfied with their volume.
- ✓Mothers whose breasts have deflated and whose lower pole has stretched after breastfeeding.
- ✓Patients left with excess skin after significant weight loss.
- ✓Those whose areola has enlarged or whose nipple points downward and who want to raise its position.
- ✓People whose weight is stable and who are not planning a pregnancy in the near future.
Should be postponed or is not suitable
- —In women planning a pregnancy or who have recently stopped breastfeeding, at least six months are allowed for the tissue to settle.
- —Those in the middle of a weight-loss process are not operated on until they reach their target weight.
- —In patients highly sensitive about scars who do not accept a permanent scar, expectations are discussed again.
- —Because smoking impairs blood flow to the nipple, surgery is not planned until it is stopped.
The final decision on suitability is made after a physician examination and tests.
Process
How does it proceed, step by step?
- 01
Initial consultation
A first idea about the degree of sagging and the incision type is given from photographs; the need for an implant and expectations about scars are discussed.
- 02
Examination and marking
Measurements are taken in Istanbul, and the new nipple position and incision lines are drawn while standing. Blood tests and an ultrasound if needed are completed.
- 03
Procedure day
Under general anesthesia, excess skin is removed, the tissue is reshaped, and the nipple is moved to its new position. You stay one night in the hospital.
- 04
First check-up
The next day, blood flow to the nipple and the dressing are checked; you are discharged in a sports bra.
- 05
Pre-departure check-up
Sutures and scar care are explained; a schedule for silicone tape or gel use is given.
- 06
Remote follow-up
Because scar maturation takes a year, regular photo follow-up is done; scar care is updated if needed.
Recovery
Recovery timeline
Day 1
There is tightness and mild pain in the breasts; nipple numbness is common and usually temporary.
Days 3–5
Swelling and bruising become noticeable. The breasts look high and conical at first; this is an expected stage of the technique.
Week 1
You can return to light work. Incision lines are kept dry, the arms do not lift heavy loads, and the bra is worn continuously.
Month 1
The shape begins to soften and the lower pole starts to fill in. Walking and light exercise are allowed.
Month 3
Most of the swelling subsides; scars are still red and raised. You return to an underwire bra and a full exercise program.
Year 1
Scars fade and flatten; the breast shape reaches its final form. The lasting result is judged after this period.
Timeframes are averages; they vary by person and by the scope of the procedure.
Results
Before / After
Before and after examples of Breast Lift are shared during the consultation.
We show our patients' photos only within the scope of their written consent and in one-on-one consultations; we respect the wishes of patients who prefer not to be published on the open internet. Let us send you results from cases similar to yours together with the physician's assessment.
Let us be open
Risks and points to consider
Every medical procedure carries risks. The points below are the main known issues for this procedure; a risk assessment specific to you is made during the consultation.
- Changes in nipple and areola sensation; these mostly resolve within months, but can be permanent in a small group.
- Scars healing wider, darker, or more raised than expected; delayed wound healing can occur, particularly at the junction of the inverted-T incision.
- Impaired blood flow to the nipple; this is rare but serious, and the risk rises markedly in smokers.
- Slight asymmetry between the two breasts, or the lower pole refilling over time so that the nipple sits high (bottoming out).
- Some recurrence of sagging over the years due to gravity, weight changes, and pregnancy is possible.