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Breast Uplift

Weight fluctuations, pregnancy and breast feeding, along with the natural aging process, where gravity takes over, all influence how our breasts develop during our lives.

As breasts age, the droopiness becomes more and more noticeable and the once youthful décolleté is a thing of the past.

To rectify this, a breast uplift can restore the drooping breasts to their original position. During the procedure the excess skin is removed whilst the breast tissue is rearranged to create a more compact, firmer breast and at the same time the areolas/nipples are corrected to the right height and size. The incisions are commonly around the areolas/nipples, vertically down to the breast fold and in some cases a horizontal incision is necessary, which sits in the breast fold (an anchor scar). If the breasts have lost some of their volume, you can opt to simultaneously correct the volume, by inserting breast implants. Any asymmetry between the breasts can also be corrected during this procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

A breast uplift takes approximately 2 hours.

With implants a little longer.

What type of anaesthetic is used?

A breast uplift (with or without implants) is carried out under general anaesthetic.

Where does the procedure take place?

Surgery is carried out in the day hospital. (in certain cases 1 night in hospital is necessary).

How long will I be in hospital?

It all depends on the extent of the procedure, most patients go home the same day, with a follow up appointment the next day. But some cases necessitate an overnight stay. You will need to be accompanied, and it is strictly forbidden to drive following surgery.

What do I need to do after the procedure?

Immediately after the procedure, adhesive dressings are applied to the wounds and a support bra is fitted.

You may shower two days following surgery (no baths for 6 weeks), although this may vary depending on the technique and the surgeon. Directly after the shower, the wounds should be dried, disinfected and dressed with a dry sterile dressing.

  • During the first six weeks, we recommend a special support bra. This bra should be worn for six weeks night and day, unless prescribed otherwise

  • The stitches, if not absorbable, should be removed 10-14 days following the surgery. As soon as the stitches are removed, you can massage the scars with the prescribed scar cream.

What are the side effects of the surgery?

  • Slight pain and discomfort

  • Tension

  • Temporary loss of nipple sensation (can last up to 9 -12 months)

  • Blue-yellow discoloration of the skin, especially around the areola

What are the risks of the procedure?

  • Infection

  • Asymmetry

  • Bleeding

  • Asymmetry in size of breast volume or uneven nipples

  • Areola/nipple necrosis: very rare and mainly in smokers

Medication

If breast implants have been inserted along with the uplift, then you may experience some quite strong muscle pain especially when stretching. Therefore, try to avoid any muscular effort and rest when possible. The following medication will help during the first post-operative week:

  • Paracetamol: 1g (3 times a day)

  • Ibuprofen: 400 mg (3 times a day with food)

  • In case of extreme pain (after consultation with your surgeon): A painkiller containing codeine, can be prescribed

Avoid aspirin and any other medication containing blood thinning properties, during the first post-operative week.

Applying ice packs for the first week, for 10 to 15 minutes, four times a day, can help the swelling and alleviate some of the pain. Never put the ice directly on the skin: use a towel.

Sports

As the chest muscle may feel painful and sore for the first few weeks, we recommend:

  • Rest during the first two post-operative weeks.

  • 2 weeks following surgery, you can gradually take up light exercise again.

  • 6 weeks following surgery, you can exercise again as normal.

Massage

In the case of implants, 2-3 weeks following surgery, you may start to massage both breasts, this will help avoid any interior scarring and help the skin scars to develop smoothly and eventually fade. It is best to use a cream that is specifically adapted for improving scars.