
19 August 2024
Is a Breast Lift Right for Me?
What are the benefits of a breast lift? It’s normal for breasts to sag over time, especially with age or if you have a larger bust. However, while this is a natural part of life, it doesn’t always feel comfortable or convenient. In fact, many women wear bras to alleviate the strain on their backs caused by the weight of their breasts.
Whether you’re seeking a breast lift for a more lifted, youthful appearance or have been advised by a medical professional, it’s important to be informed. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need.
This article will cover:
- Why do breasts droop?
- What is a breast lift?
- Who is a good candidate for a breast lift?
- Can a breast lift be performed by itself?
- What are the benefits of a breast lift?
- How long does a breast lift last?
- Is a breast lift painful?
- Are there any breast lift side effects or risks?
- How much does a breast lift cost?
Why Do Breasts Droop?
Droopy breasts are common during motherhood, as we age or in those with a larger bust. Gravity naturally takes its toll, and when the fibrous bands that support your breasts weaken, they stretch and your breasts begin to sag.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, also known as a breast uplift or mastopexy, is exactly what it sounds like—a procedure designed to lift and rejuvenate drooping breasts. The result will leave you with natural-looking breasts that maintain your current size while reshaping your breasts to better suit your body type.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?
Besides your goals, we must ensure you are mentally and physically suitable for a breast lift. For example:
- There is noticeable asymmetry, with one breast lower than the other
- When not supported, your nipples fall below the natural breast crease
- You are concerned about sagging or loss of shape and volume in your breasts
- You are in good overall health and maintain a stable weight
- Your breasts have a flatter, elongated (stretched) shape or appear pendulous (hanging down loosely)
- You do not smoke or take any narcotics
- You have stretched skin and enlarged areolas
- Your nipples and areolas point downward
Can a Breast Lift Be Performed By Itself?
Yes, a breast lift can be performed on its own or combined with a breast enlargement or reduction.
It’s important to consider whether you’re happy with your breast size and simply want a perkier look, or if you want to increase or decrease their size along with the lift. Understanding your goals will help determine the most appropriate procedure for you.
What Are the Benefits of a Breast Lift?
Firmer breasts: A breast lift restores firmness and support, preventing the deflated look caused by sagging.
Healthier nipple position: A lift can reposition downward-pointing nipples to a more natural, healthier and forward projection.
Improved breast shape: By lifting the breast tissue, we can improve the shape. A breast lift also combats sagging from ageing, pregnancy or weight loss, giving you a youthful, perky look.
Reduced under-breast irritation: We can also reduce excess skin to alleviate irritation and chafing from sagging breasts. This will also decrease the risk of heat rash during summer.
How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?
Most breast sizes are suitable for a breast lift, and results typically last up to 15 years. However, smaller breasts will retain their lifted appearance longer, while larger breasts might require another lift earlier. Over time, some sagging may occur, but this is entirely normal.
How Is a Breast Lift Done?
A breast lift is performed under general anaesthetic and takes just 1.5 hours to complete. Depending on your goals and body type, we recommend three different incisions:
- Incision around the areola
- Incision around the areola with a vertical extension down to the breast crease
- Incision around the areola, with vertical and horizontal extensions along the breast crease
After making the incision, your surgeon will remove excess skin, reshape the breast tissue and reposition the nipple. Following the procedure, a small drainage tube will be used to remove any blood or fluids. This tube will be removed before you are awake and the anaesthesia has worn off.
Is a Breast Lift Painful?
A breast lift typically causes less pain than other breast procedures, with soreness around the incisions lasting about four weeks. The incisions will be red and scars will be visible, but these will fade within a year. Whereas, numbness in the nipples and areolas can persist for up to six weeks. We suggest using the prescribed pain medication for the first week, and refraining from sexual activities, difficult tasks and work for two weeks.
Most clinics discharge patients the same day, but we prefer to keep you overnight for observation and comfort. We will wrap your breasts after surgery, and provide a post-op bra when leaving for additional support.
Are There Any Breast Lift Side Effects or Risks?
As with any breast surgery, there is a low chance of side effects and risks. These may include:
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding
- Challenges with breastfeeding
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Hematoma/seroma
- Infection
- Long-term sensation changes and swelling
- Slow healing
If you experience any of these symptoms in the months after your procedure, please call us immediately. We will promptly diagnose the issue and work to find a solution.
How Much Does a Breast Lift Cost?
Our breast lift procedure starts from £6,690. We also offer five-year finance plans through Ideal 4 Finance.
The price varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the surgery and your situation. Your cost includes the breast lift surgery and our aftercare package, but not the initial consultation.
Give Your Breasts the Lift They Deserve with Suffolk Breast Practice
If you are suffering from drooping breasts, consider a breast lift with Suffolk Breast Practice. We ensure a comfortable and safe journey throughout the entire process.
We highly recommend Dr Hussein Tuffaha, our lead surgeon, who has been recognised with the following honours:
- UK Cosmetic Surgery Register
- iWantGreatCare Certificate (2022/2023)
- Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Association of Breast Surgery
- TopDoctors
Book a Crisalix 3D consultation to virtually see your new appearance. If you have any questions about our breast lift procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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