A Comprehensive Guide To A Breast Lift Procedure

• 9 February 2024
• Mr A. Siddiqui

Last updated on July 10, 2024

A breast lift procedure is an increasingly popular choice among women seeking to rejuvenate their figures and give their bust an extra boost. Whether you’re considering this procedure or simply curious, Breast & Body Clinic, UK provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of what this surgical procedure entails, from cost to the breast lift recovery time.

A quick look at breast lift surgery

Breast lift surgery, medically known as mastopexy, is a procedure that aims to rejuvenate the appearance of breasts. This cosmetic surgery procedure addresses issues such as sagging breasts and loss of shape by elevating and reshaping the breast tissue. The primary goal of a breast lift is to restore a more youthful appearance.

If you find your breasts sag or have excess tissue and skin after pregnancy or large weight fluctuations, then you may be considering a breast uplift surgery.

Many women consider a breast lift for various reasons, including:

• After pregnancy and breastfeeding: These can significantly alter the shape and firmness of the breasts, often leading to stretched and sagging breast tissue.
• Significant weight loss: Losing a lot of weight can decrease breast volume and result in extra skin that causes breasts to look saggy.
• Ageing and gravity: Over time, the natural ageing process and gravity’s pull can reduce the elasticity of breast skin and ligaments, causing breasts to shift downward.
• Breast implants: A breast uplift surgery can be combined with breast augmentation (breast implants) to boost cup size and further enhance the shape of smaller breasts.

For women experiencing these changes, breast uplift surgery provides an opportunity to regain confidence in their body’s appearance.

How is a breast lift done?

Breast uplift (mastopexy), is tailored to each individual’s needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from breast lift surgery:

• Consultation and assessment: The first step involves a detailed consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals, evaluate your breast size and shape, and determine the best surgical approach.
• Pre-surgery preparation: You may need health checks to ensure you’re fit for surgery and be asked to stop certain medications. Your plastic surgeon will also provide you with preoperative instructions such as fasting periods and arranging someone to help you post-surgery.
• Day of the breast uplift surgery: You will be given general anaesthesia before your surgeon removes excess skin and tissue to achieve your desired size and shape, your nipple is repositioned and then the incisions are closed.

To know more about how a breast lift is done you can look at our procedure page here.

Breast lift recovery time and results will vary depending on the extent of your surgery, and if it’s combined with other cosmetic procedures.

The breast lift recovery stages

Recovery from a breast uplift occurs in stages as your body goes through the healing process.

Immediate post-surgery:

• Hospital stay: After their plastic surgery some women may need to stay in the hospital for a short duration. This can vary from a few hours to overnight, depending on your specific case, surgery and your plastic surgeon preferences.
• Caring for surgical drains: In some cases, surgical drains are placed to remove excess fluid. This is more common following mastectomies (for breast cancer) or reconstructive surgery. If present, you’ll be instructed on how to care for them.

First few weeks:

• Managing pain and swelling: You will experience some pain and swelling during the first several weeks of your recovery. Your surgeon will provide pain relief and postoperative instructions on how to manage the swelling.
• Limited movement and activity: You’ll be advised to avoid certain movements to prevent stress on your incision sites, such as lifting anything heavy or raising your arms above shoulder height.
• Wearing a support bra: A special support bra is usually recommended to support your breasts, minimise swelling and promote healing.

You may be provided with a special post-surgery support bra to wear until your surgeon tells you otherwise. Following any post-operative advice and instructions is the best way to ensure optimal recovery and breast lift results.

Long-term recovery:

• Incision site: Over the next few months, you’ll notice the scars from the incisions begin to fade.
• Resuming activities: Gradually, you’ll be able to resume normal activities, including your regular exercise program. You will need to have final clearance from your surgeon before undertaking strenuous activities and exercise.
• Full healing: Complete healing from breast surgery can take several months. It’s important to continue following any advice and instructions from your surgeon and attend all follow-up appointments.

Before you leave the hospital after your breast uplift surgery, the team at Breast & Body Clinic will schedule follow-up appointments. These appointments will address any concerns and ensure your recovery is on track.

What is breast lift recovery time?

The breast lift recovery time can vary, but it generally follows a predictable pattern. Most patients find that they can return to work and their normal daily activities within a few weeks after the mastopexy surgery. However, it’s important to note that complete recovery, which includes the full healing of incisions and the settling of tissues into their new shape, can take several months.

During the recovery period, there are several important do’s and don’ts.

Do:

• Follow post-operative instructions.
• Attend follow-up appointments.
• Keep incisions clean.
• Get plenty of rest to help your body heal.
• Wear the recommended support bra to reduce swelling and support the breasts.
• Walk and do light activities to promote blood circulation and prevent a blood clot from developing in your leg.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support recovery.

It’s important to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least two weeks after your surgery. Your surgeon will give you the all-clear once you can commence exercise once more.

Don’t:

• Engage in heavy lifting, sexual intercourse or strenuous exercise until your surgeon gives you the all-clear.
• Sleep on your stomach.
• Ignore any post-surgery symptoms that seem abnormal.
• Neglect the care and cleaning of your surgical area.
• Rush the recovery process – allow your body the time it needs to heal.

How much is a breast lift, UK?

In the UK, the cost of a breast uplift is influenced by several factors, including the surgeon’s fees, the hospital, and the type of anaesthesia used. Additionally, the final cost of a breast lift can be changed if you choose to combine it with a breast reduction or implants. For example:

• Breast uplift: from £7,900
• Lift with breast enlargement surgery (implants): from £8,300

It’s important to note that most insurance providers do not cover cosmetic surgeries like breast lifts. However, to make the procedure more affordable, many clinics offer financing options.

Is this cosmetic procedure right for you?

A breast lift can be a life-changing procedure, offering renewed confidence and comfort. It’s important to thoroughly research and choose a certified surgeon who understands your goals. For more information, or to book a consultation, contact the Breast and Body Clinic. We’re here to guide you through every step of your breast lift journey.

FAQs

Is a breast lift a hard recovery?

Breast lift recovery is manageable for most women. Like most plastic surgery, it typically involves some discomfort, swelling, and bruising initially, but these symptoms gradually improve and after about two weeks will be completely gone.

How much does a breast lift cost (UK) and is it covered by the NHS?

In the UK, the cost of a breast lift can vary, typically ranging from £3,500 to £9,000, depending on various factors like the surgeon’s fee, clinic’s location and if the surgical procedure performed combines different procedures. Generally, breast lift surgery is not covered by the NHS as it’s considered a cosmetic procedure.