Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)
Mastopexy, also known as breast uplift surgery or a breast lift, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts to restore a firmer, more youthful contour.
In Leeds, the procedure is performed by Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Mr Philip Turton, with over 20 years’ experience in advanced breast surgery and natural, personalised results.
The procedure addresses changes in breast shape caused by ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight changes, restoring a more uplifted and proportionate appearance.
Why Mastopexy
Mastopexy is chosen by women who want to correct breast droop (ptosis) and restore a more youthful breast position and shape. It is commonly performed when breast tissue has changed due to life events or natural ageing.
It does not primarily increase breast size, but instead reshapes and lifts existing tissue.
Reasons for choosing Mastopexy
Mastopexy is chosen by women who want to restore a more uplifted, youthful breast shape when natural changes affect position and firmness. The procedure addresses both physical changes and personal confidence, helping to rebalance breast contour without necessarily increasing size, depending on individual goals and surgical planning.
Aesthetic Concerns
- Breasts that have lost shape or firmness over time
- Nipples sitting lower or pointing downward
- Desire for a more youthful breast contour
- Loss of upper breast fullness
Physical Concerns
- Changes after pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Breast changes following weight loss or ageing
- Skin laxity affecting breast position
- Asymmetry or uneven breast positioning
Emotional & Social Impacts
- Reduced confidence in body shape
- Feeling less comfortable in fitted clothing or swimwear
- Desire to restore pre-pregnancy appearance
- Frustration with age-related body changes
The Procedure
Breast uplift surgery is a detailed procedure that combines expertise in reshaping, resizing, and lifting the breasts.
Here’s what the process entails:
01
Pre-operative consultation and breast assessment – planning incision type based on degree of ptosis.
02
General anaesthetic administered, removal of excess skin & reshaping of breast tissue.
03
Repositioning of nipple and areola to a higher position, reshaping & tightening of remaining skin envelope.
04
Closure of incisions with support of surgical dressings.
DURATION:
Typically 2–3 hours under general anaesthetic.
Safety and recovery for Mastopexy
Mastopexy is generally a safe and well-established procedure when performed by a specialist breast surgeon. It is, however, still a surgical operation and carries risks that are discussed during consultation.
Commonly referenced risks include:
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Potential impact on breastfeeding ability
- Scarring depending on surgical technique
- Temporary discomfort and swelling during recovery
Patients are advised to wear a supportive bra during recovery and manage discomfort with standard pain relief.
Mastopexy results
Mastopexy results in a lifted, firmer, and more youthful breast shape. The procedure improves breast position and contour without significantly changing breast volume unless combined with implants.
Typical outcomes include:
- Higher, more youthful breast position
- Improved firmness and shape
- Enhanced symmetry
- More proportionate overall silhouette
Patient Suitability
Mastopexy may be suitable for women who:
- Experience breast droop or loss of firmness
- Have nipples positioned low or pointing downward
- Have changes following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
- Are in good general health
- Have realistic expectations about scarring and results
It is often considered when breast size is acceptable, but shape and position have changed.
Mastopexy costs
From:
£8,700
Including:
- Comprehensive Surgical care by an expert specialist with over 21 years experience at consultant level.
- The resected breast tissue for histopathology testing by a consultant pathologist were require.
- An overnight hospital stay in a private room on a properly staffed hospital ward
- Comprehensive aftercare and follow-up appointments.
Recovery Timeline
Hospital Stay
Typically 1 night
Pain Management
Initial discomfort managed with regular pain relief
Aftercare
Gradual return to normal activity over several weeks
Tenderness
Swelling and healing continue during early recovery phase
Breast Uplift FAQ
Breasts sag due to factors such as pregnancy, female hormones, breast feeding, weight change, breast size change, gravity, ageing, genetic factors, and tissue stretch, and the presence of breast implants. As the skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and begin to sag. The best candidates for a breast uplift procedure (the medical term for a breast uplift is a ‘mastopexy’) are healthy, emotionally stable women who have realistic expectations about what this type of surgery can accomplish. Breasts of any size can be lifted, but the results may not last as long in women with heavy, large breasts.
Yes, nipple sensation may be altered, particularly if repositioning is significant.
Women seeking to restore a more youthful breast shape and firmness.
A support bra is required after surgery and discomfort is managed with pain relief.
No. Mastopexy reshapes and lifts existing tissue without significantly changing volume.
Yes, in some cases implants are used to restore or increase volume alongside the lift.
It may interfere with the ability to breastfeed, depending on surgical approach.
Yes, scarring depends on technique, but is planned to be as discreet as possible.