Breast uplift surgery involves the removal of sections of slack skin from under the breasts and may also include repositioning the nipples to give firmer and higher breasts. The procedure may remove a few stretch marks and make some of those that remain less noticeable, but it cannot usually erase them all.
The most common breast uplift involves three incisions. The first is around the areola (the dark area around the nipple). The second is a vertical incision from the bottom edge of the areola to the breast crease. Finally, a horizontal incision is made under the breast, following the natural curve of the breast crease.
It depends very much on individual circumstances but sometimes the second and/or third incision can be avoided using a modified technique. This has the benefit of producing less scarring.
Breast uplift surgery normally takes place under general anaesthetic and is about sixty minute’s duration. It requires a one night stay in hospital. You may have a drainage tube but this will be removed painlessly, before you return home. Stitches are removed seven to fourteen days after surgery.
Your breasts will be supported by bandages but then it is important to wear a properly fitted and supportive bra, day and night, for about three months, to support the healing tissue.
Women are advised to take two weeks off work and then to avoid lifting or doing strenuous exercise for about six weeks. As with all surgical procedures there will be some scarring along the incision lines following a breast uplift operation. However, if the skin is kept out of the sun for at least a year, and a good supportive bra is worn for the recommended time after the surgery, the scars can fade to become hardly noticeable.
Breast uplift information summary:
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Technical name
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Mastopexy
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Procedure time
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60 minutes
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Anaesthetic
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General
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Time in hospital
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1 night
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Time off work
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2 weeks
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Breasts feel sensitive for
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2 weeks
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Time for scar tissue to heal
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Up to 18 months
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Time to resumption of normal activities (including sports)
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2 months
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