Age, changes after pregnancy, major weight loss or excess weight can make the breasts sag (ptosis). This can affect a woman’s self-esteem, and only surgery can restore an aesthetically pleasing breast. Mastopexy is the operation that reshapes and supports the breast, working mainly on the skin envelope without reducing volume.
The key issue in these cases is the descent of the nipple-areola complex, which gradually moves away from its natural position and drops below the breast fold.
Surgical technique
The operation is almost always performed under general anaesthesia and takes about three hours; in some cases local anaesthesia with sedation can be used. The gland is reshaped and lifted without significant loss of volume. Mastopexy is similar to breast reduction, but here the nipple-areola complex is repositioned with only minimal reshaping of the gland, while the skin envelope is treated more extensively.
The scars are similar to those of breast reduction, although often shorter, depending on the starting condition and the technique used. In the best cases a periareolar incision is enough, sometimes with a short vertical scar. Scars are placed where an ordinary bra can hide them; they may take a few months to blend with the surrounding skin, and occasionally a touch-up under local anaesthesia is needed.
Any stretch marks will be fewer, because skin is removed, and look better thanks to the tension of the reshaped breast.
Other information
Mastopexy can be performed as a day case or may require one night in hospital. The frequency of dressings and the timing of stitch removal depend on the individual case and the technique chosen. When the upper part of the breast is also empty, mastopexy can be combined with breast implants for a more pleasing result.
After surgery a support bra is worn for four weeks. There are no significant risks of complications; however, breastfeeding may be difficult after this operation, and nipple sensation may be altered for a long period.