Breast Uplift
This page will give you information about a breast uplift.
If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant
health professional.
What is a breast uplift?
A breast uplift (mastoplexy) is a cosmetic operation to remove
excess skin from your breasts to improve their shape.
What are the benefits of surgery?
If the operation is successful, your breasts should be firmer
and have a better shape.
Are there any alternatives to a breast uplift?
Using padded bras or inserts can make your breasts appear to
have a better shape. If there is not much excess skin and your
breasts are not droopy, your surgeon may be able to assess you for
a breast augmentation. If you have a large bust size, your surgeon
may be able to assess you for a breast reduction.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and
usually takes about an hour and a half. Your surgeon will make a
cut on the line of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) and
a vertical cut underneath your areola. They will remove excess skin
and reshape the breast tissue. Your surgeon will lift your nipple
so it is in a higher position (see figure 1).
Figure 1 - Breast Uplift
a) Excess skin is removed
b) The breast is re-shaped and the nipple lifted
What complications can happen?
General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection in a surgical wound
- Blood clots
- Unsightly scarring
Specific complications of this operation
- Developing a swelling inside the breast
- Developing a lump in the breast
- Numbness or persistent pain on the outer part of the
breast
- Stiff shoulder
- Loss of skin, including the areola and nipple
- Change of breast and nipple sensation
- Cosmetic problems
- Reduced ability to breastfeed
How soon will I recover?
Your breasts will look discoloured and feel very firm and
swollen. You should be able to go home the same day.
Most women return to normal activities within two to three
weeks. You should be able to return to work after the second week,
depending on your type of job. You should be able to do a limited
amount of activity, such as lifting young children, after about two
weeks.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities
as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a
member of the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
The results of a breast uplift improve gradually over the first
six months. Your breasts should become softer and more natural.
Summary
A breast uplift is a cosmetic operation to improve the shape of
your breasts. It is only suitable for certain women. You should
consider the options carefully and have realistic expectations
about the results.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Eoin O' Broin MD FRCS (Plast) and Mr Graham Offer BSc
FRCS (Plast)
Illustrations: Mr Eoin O' Broin MD FRCS (Plast)
Copyright © 2008 EIDO Healthcare Limited
The operation and treatment information on this website is
produced by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Ramsay Health
Care UK.
The intellectual property rights to the information belong
exclusively to EIDO Healthcare Limited.
You may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any
of the information other than for your personal, non-commercial
use.
The information should not replace advice that your relevant
health professional would give you.