Mastopexy is a plastic surgery procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging (ptotic) breasts, without significantly changing their volume. Over the years, following pregnancies, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or simply due to the effect of gravity, breasts tend to lose their original position and droop downward, with areolas pointing in a downward direction. Mastopexy repositions the breasts to a more youthful and natural position, restoring tone and a harmonious shape to the décolletage.
The procedure removes excess skin that has lost elasticity and repositions the breast tissue and nipple-areola complex to a higher, more harmonious position. The surgeon internally reshapes the mammary gland to create a natural, projected conical shape, and reduces the areola diameter when it has become enlarged. The breast tissue is reconfigured and secured in a higher position through internal sutures that ensure the result is maintained over time.
Mastopexy techniques are chosen based on the degree of ptosis (sagging) and the amount of excess skin to be removed: • Periareolar mastopexy: for mild ptosis, with scarring exclusively around the areola. Indicated when the breast needs minimal lifting and excess skin is limited • Vertical (or "lollipop") mastopexy: for moderate ptosis, with a scar around the areola and a vertical line downward. The most versatile technique, suitable for most cases • Inverted T (or "anchor") mastopexy: for severe ptosis, with an additional scar in the inframammary fold. It offers the maximum degree of lifting and reshaping, ideal for very saggy breasts with significant excess skin
Mastopexy is recommended for women who present varying degrees of breast ptosis: • Sagging breasts after one or more pregnancies and breastfeeding, with loss of original shape and position • Ptosis from aging, with progressive descent of breast tissue and downward-pointing areolas • Loss of skin elasticity after significant weight loss, with excess skin and a deflated upper pole • Areolas pointing downward or laterally, indicating significant ptosis • Asymmetry in breast position, with one breast lower than the other The ideal candidate is a woman who desires a higher and firmer breast but is satisfied with her current volume.
The procedure is not recommended in the following cases: • Ongoing pregnancy or breastfeeding, as hormonal changes and breast volume increase may compromise the result • Short-term planned pregnancies: a new pregnancy and breastfeeding will stretch the tissues again. It is preferable to wait until the reproductive journey is complete • Expectations of significant volume increase: mastopexy lifts but does not enlarge the breast. For those who also desire more volume, mastopexy with implants is recommended • Active smoking, which compromises tissue vascularization and increases the risk of complications • Uncontrolled coagulation disorders
The procedure takes 2-3 hours depending on the technique used and the degree of ptosis to correct. It is generally performed as day surgery or with one overnight stay. Recovery requires 1-2 weeks: swelling and bruising are normal in the first days and gradually subside. A support bra without underwire must be worn for 4-6 weeks to support the breasts during healing. Sutures are removed between the first and second week. Light daily activities can resume after approximately one week, while sports should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.
Yes, mastopexy is performed under general anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort during the procedure and allow the surgeon to work with the precision needed to achieve a symmetrical and harmonious result. A pre-operative anesthesiology consultation with complete preoperative tests is performed to assess suitability and choose the most appropriate anesthetic protocol.
Results are visible immediately after surgery: the breasts appear higher, firmer, and more youthful right away. In the first weeks, swelling may give a slightly different appearance from the final result. Final results are appreciated after 3-6 months, when swelling has completely resolved, tissues have stabilized in their new position, and scars have matured. The breasts assume a natural, harmonious shape with a more defined décolletage.
Breasts will continue to age naturally after the procedure, as gravity, weight fluctuations, and the biological aging process continue to act on the tissues. However, the improvement achieved with mastopexy is significant and long-lasting: the breasts will maintain a markedly better position compared to pre-operative for many years. To prolong the results, it is advisable to maintain a stable weight, wear support bras during physical activity, and protect the décolletage skin from sun damage.
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