As we get older, breasts can start to droop or sag due to the relaxation of ligaments, after-effects of pregnancy and childbirth, significant weight loss, and the ageing process.

Surgery takes between 2 – 3 hours,  and is performed in a fully accredited hospital under a general anaesthetic. The incision pattern and procedure, combined with other cosmetic procedures, depends on your individual case and goals. Primary incisions may be circular (following the outline of the areola around the nipple or around the outside of the areola) and vertically downwards towards the breast crease. For larger heavy breasts, further incisions are made at the side of each breast to remove excess skin and fatty tissue.

The scarring pattern is dictated by the extent of sagging and the quality of your skin. Breast lift scars can vary. There may be a combination of scars in very droopy breasts that include one around the areola, horizontal scar in the breast fold, and vertical scar linking the two, resulting in a discreet anchor-shaped mark. Over time, scarring will fade until it is barely visible.

If you undergo more than one breast procedure, you may require overnight observation.  Once you have returned home, rest is needed for 2 – 6 weeks, depending on your age and general fitness. We recommend avoiding strenuous activity for at least six weeks. Swelling should subside within a few weeks, and a support bra without under-wire should be worn during this time. Your final results will be apparent after four to six months.

Risks and Complications

At Dr Rohan Page’s practice, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We want to ensure you are well informed about breast lift surgery’s risks and potential complications. While we take all necessary precautions to minimise these risks, it’s essential to acknowledge that some risks may be unavoidable.

Please note that the information provided here is of a general nature. During your consultation with Dr Rohan Page, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, he will discuss your surgical procedure’s specific risks and complications.

However, we have outlined some general risks associated with breast lift surgery below:

1. Fluid Accumulation (Seroma): Following the surgery, fluid can accumulate around the breast, which may necessitate additional procedures to drain the fluid. To mitigate this risk, we may place temporary drains, thin tubes, under the skin during your hospital stay.
2. Fat Necrosis: Although rare, fat necrosis can occur when fatty tissue dies, forming hard lumps under the skin. Fortunately, this complication is typically not a serious issue.
3. Changes in Breast and Nipple Sensation: Breast lift surgery may cause temporary or permanent changes in breast and nipple sensation. Some patients may experience increased sensitivity, while others may notice a reduced trend.
4. Asymmetry (Unevenness) of the Breasts: While uncommon, breast lift surgery can lead to breast asymmetry. Factors contributing to this complication include pre-existing differences in breast size or shape and healing-related issues.
5. Excessive Firmness of the Breast: In rare cases, breast lift surgery can form scar tissue, leading to excessive breast firmness.
6. Potential Partial or Total Loss of the Nipple and Areola: This complication is infrequent and usually occurs due to damage to the blood supply of the nipple and areola.
7. Requirement for Further Surgery to Address Complications: Although infrequent, there may be instances where additional surgery becomes necessary to address complications such as asymmetry, excessive firmness, or loss of the nipple and areola.

Please remember that the risks and complications mentioned here are not exhaustive. Dr Rohan Page will provide personalised information based on your unique circumstances and address any concerns during your consultation.