What does a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) consist of?
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a procedure that lifts and reshapes the breasts, helping to restore a firmer and more youthful appearance while improving breast position and symmetry with natural and harmonious results.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Breast lift, also known as mastopexy or breast elevation, is a surgical procedure designed to lift, reshape, and restore firmness to sagging breasts, giving them a more youthful, firm, and harmonious appearance.
Over time, several natural factors can change the shape and position of the breasts: pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and gravity itself cause the supporting ligaments to stretch and the skin to lose elasticity. As a result, the breasts may appear sagging, flattened, or with downward-pointing nipples, which can affect self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Mastopexy corrects this. It is not about changing breast size, but about restoring their natural shape, position, and firmness—and with it, confidence.
How is a breast lift performed?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the degree of sagging and the technique used.
Step 1 — Marking and planning
Before surgery, the surgeon carefully marks the new nipple position and incision lines on the skin. This step is essential to ensure symmetry and natural-looking results.
Step 2 — General anaesthesia
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, so the patient feels no pain or discomfort during surgery.
Step 3 — Incision based on technique
The surgeon makes incisions depending on the degree of breast ptosis (sagging) in each patient. The most commonly used techniques are:
Periareolar or “Donut” Lift
A circular incision is made around the areola. It is ideal for mild sagging. It leaves a minimal and well-concealed scar.
Vertical or “Lollipop” Lift
An incision is made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. It is used for moderate breast sagging.
Anchor Lift
An incision is made around the areola, vertically down, and horizontally along the breast fold. It is used for significant sagging and allows the greatest degree of reshaping.
Step 4 — Tissue Reshaping
The surgeon removes excess skin, tightens the surrounding tissue, and repositions the nipple and areola to a more aesthetic and proportionate height. The breast tissue is secured with sutures to ensure long-lasting support.
Step 5 — Closure and Dressing
The incisions are closed with sutures, and a surgical support bra is placed to help maintain the new breast shape during healing.
Types of Breast Lift Procedures
Simple Mastopexy
Lifts and reshapes the breasts without changing their size. Ideal for women satisfied with their volume but seeking improved firmness and position.
Mastopexy with Breast Augmentation
Combines a lift with breast implants in a single procedure. It is the most common option for patients who want both elevation and increased volume.
Mastopexy with Breast Reduction
Combines lifting with volume reduction. Recommended for women with large, sagging breasts that cause physical discomfort such as back, neck pain, or posture issues.
Periareolar Mastopexy
The least invasive technique. The incision is made only around the areola, leaving a barely visible scar. Suitable for mild sagging.
What does a breast lift improve?
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Lifts sagging breasts and restores a youthful position
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Improves firmness and tissue tone
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Repositions the nipple and areola to a natural height
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Reduces enlarged areolas
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Enhances breast symmetry
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Improves clothing and lingerie fit
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Relieves physical and emotional discomfort caused by breast sagging
Recovery Timeline
First 24–48 hours:
The patient stays under medical supervision at the clinic. Tightness, mild discomfort, and swelling are normal. Dressings and a surgical bra are applied immediately. In some cases, small drainage tubes are used and removed during the first follow-up visit.
Days 5–7:
Patients may return to their home country. Most can resume light daily activities within about one week.
Weeks 2–3:
Swelling and bruising gradually decrease. Heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity must be avoided.
Weeks 4–6:
Light exercise can be resumed. High-impact activities and sleeping on the stomach should still be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks.
6–7 months:
Final results become fully visible. Scars, initially more noticeable and pink, gradually fade and blend with the natural skin tone over time.
Advantages of Breast Lift Surgery
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Highly specialised plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast lift techniques
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State-of-the-art surgical technology
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Clinics accredited by the Turkish Ministry of Health and international organisations
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Up to 70% cost savings compared to Western Europe
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All-inclusive packages: airport transfers, hotel accommodation, pre-op tests, medication, and surgical bra
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Dedicated Spanish-speaking coordinator throughout your stay
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Online medical follow-up after surgery
Are you an ideal candidate for a breast lift?
Breast lift surgery is suitable for women who:
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Have sagging, flattened, or loss of firmness due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging
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Have nipples or areolas pointing downward or positioned below the breast crease
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Are in good general health
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Maintain a stable weight
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Are not pregnant and do not plan to become pregnant soon
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Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking at least 6 weeks before and after surgery
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Have realistic expectations about the results