What is a Breast Lift?
Over time, due to factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, breast tissue can loosen and sag, leading to sagging. Breast lift surgery, medically known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that aims to eliminate this sagging and restore a firm, full, and aesthetically pleasing breast shape. During this procedure, excess skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple is moved higher. The result is a firmer, rounder, and more youthful appearance for the breasts. We provide natural results that complement body proportions and tailor our treatment plan to the most aesthetically pleasing individual patient’s anatomical structure.
How is Breast Lift Surgery Performed?
The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes between 2 and 3 hours. The surgeon determines the appropriate incision technique based on the degree of sagging. For mild sagging, an incision is made only around the nipple, while for more severe sagging, a vertical or inverted T-shaped incision may be used. Excess skin is carefully removed, and the breast tissue is elevated and shaped. The nipple is also placed in its natural position. If volume is lacking, a silicone implant may be inserted during the lift. After the stitches are removed, a special bandage and a supportive bra are applied. We use safe surgical methods to restore a youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance to your breasts.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?
Women with significant sagging, volume loss, or asymmetry in their breasts are suitable candidates. A breast lift provides successful results for those who have loose breasts after breastfeeding, lost shape due to weight change, or whose breast tissue has sagged due to aging. Before the surgery, the patient’s general health is assessed, their breast structure is analyzed, and an appropriate surgical plan is developed based on their expectations. Any woman over the age of 18, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and in good general health can safely undergo this procedure. We strive to provide the most natural result for each patient, tailored to their body type and expectations.
What Causes Sagging Breasts?
The most common cause of breast sagging is aging. Over time, skin loses elasticity, and breast tissue sinks under the influence of gravity. Pregnancy and breastfeeding also cause breast tissue to expand and contract frequently, causing looseness. Rapid weight gain and loss, genetic predisposition, and smoking are other factors that accelerate sagging. Furthermore, not wearing supportive underwear can exacerbate the elastin loss that occurs over time in the breast skin. These factors can lead to distorted breast shape, causing the nipple to point downward. Breast lift surgery permanently corrects this condition, restoring a youthful, firm, and aesthetically pleasing appearance to the breasts. We offer personalized solutions based on the degree of sagging and ensure a natural shape.
What’s the Difference Between a Breast Lift and an Augmentation?
While both procedures aim to aesthetically improve breast shape, they fundamentally address different goals. Breast augmentation surgery uses silicone implants or fat injections to increase volume and plump the breasts. A breast lift, on the other hand, aims to reshape the breast by tightening sagging tissue. In some cases, both procedures can be performed simultaneously. For individuals experiencing both sagging and volume loss, a silicone implant is placed during a breast lift to achieve both a lifted and fuller appearance. We carefully determine which method is most suitable based on the breast structure and the patient’s expectations, ensuring a natural, balanced result.
Is a Breast Lift Without Silicone Implants Possible?
Yes, a breast lift can be performed without silicone implants. In this case, the surgeon removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue, and moves the nipple to the ideal position. This gives the breasts a more lifted and aesthetically pleasing shape. However, if there is significant volume loss in the breast tissue, a lift alone may not achieve the desired fullness. In this case, the addition of a silicone implant can achieve both a lifted and voluminous appearance. A breast lift without implants is more suitable for individuals with sufficient breast tissue but only experiencing loss of shape. We carefully analyze our patients’ body structure to develop the most appropriate plan, with or without implants.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
A breast lift procedure typically takes between two and three hours, depending on the degree of sagging and the technique used. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the patient feels no pain during the procedure. For mild sagging, the procedure may be shorter due to the smaller incision. If a silicone implant is to be placed at the same time, the surgery will be slightly longer. After the surgery, breast bandages and a special support bra are applied. Most patients are discharged the same day, although in some cases, an overnight observation period may be required. We ensure the entire surgical process is safe and comfortable, maximizing the aesthetic outcome.
Breast Lift Recovery:
During the first few days after surgery, you may experience mild swelling, tightness, or tenderness in your breasts. These symptoms are normal and usually subside within a few days. A special bra recommended by your doctor should be worn regularly; this will help maintain the breasts’ new shape. Stitches are usually removed within 10 days or will dissolve on their own. Avoid lifting your arms overhead and avoid strenuous exercise for the first two weeks. You can return to your social life within an average of 3 to 4 weeks. The final aesthetic result is usually visible within 2-3 months. We closely monitor the postoperative process and ensure a comfortable recovery for our patients.
Will There Be Any Scars After Surgery?
The incisions made during breast lift surgery are generally located around the areola, vertically, and sometimes in the inframammary fold. Because these incisions are strategically placed within skin folds, they fade over time. While the scars may appear pink or red in the first few months, they will gradually fade to match your skin tone as you heal. The appearance of the scars can vary depending on individual skin type, surgical technique, and suture care. Regular wound care, use of creams or lotions recommended by your doctor, and sun protection will help the scars fade more quickly. We minimize scars with aesthetic suture techniques, achieving a natural and smooth result.
Is a Breast Lift a Permanent Solution?
This procedure is a permanent aesthetic solution that lasts for many years. Surgery removes excess skin, reshapes breast tissue, and restores a firmer shape to the breasts. However, factors such as aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can cause the skin to sag again over time. While this natural process affects the results, breasts never sag to the same extent as before surgery. A healthy lifestyle, a stable weight, and skincare routine increase the longevity of a breast lift. We consider skin quality, breast tissue, and aesthetic balance together to achieve long-lasting results, providing personalized solutions.
Breast Lift Prices 2025
Breast lift prices in 2025 generally range between 3,500 USD and 7,500 USD, depending on surgical technique and clinic facilities. This procedure, also called mastopexy, raises and reshapes sagging breasts to create a firmer and more youthful look. Costs vary with the complexity of the surgery, anesthesia type, and surgeon’s expertise. Additional procedures such as augmentation or reduction performed together may increase the final price. On average, a breast lift provides long-lasting improvements in breast contour, symmetry, and overall aesthetic appearance, enhancing both confidence and comfort.
Is Breastfeeding Possible After a Breast Lift?
When performed with appropriate surgical technique, breastfeeding is generally preserved after breast lift surgery. While the breast tissue is reshaped during the procedure, the milk ducts and the tissues that nourish the nipple are not damaged. However, in cases of severe sagging, a complete nipple repositioning may be necessary, so the surgeon’s planning is crucial. When performed with the correct technique, milk production and breastfeeding continue normally after surgery. Therefore, this condition is always evaluated before surgery in women planning to have children. We plan breast lift procedures to be both aesthetically and functionally safe, ensuring natural results.
How Long Should a Bra Be Worn Post-Surgery?
Wearing a special medical bra is crucial after surgery to help the breasts maintain their new shape and reduce swelling. This bra should generally be worn continuously for the first six weeks. It is recommended to wear it day and night for the first three weeks. In the following weeks, wearing it only during the day is sufficient. This process helps the skin adapt to its new shape and helps the stitches heal more quickly. Bra selection should always be made according to your doctor’s recommendations, and tight or incorrectly designed bras should be avoided. We determine the duration of post-surgery bra wear based on individual healing speed and offer our patients personalized recommendations.
Is a Breast Lift a Painful Procedure?
Because the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, the patient feels no pain during the procedure. Afterward, there may be a slight feeling of tightness, pressure, or tingling for a few days. This usually subsides within the first 48 hours and can be easily controlled with painkillers prescribed by your doctor. Breast lift surgery is a very comfortable procedure thanks to modern surgical techniques. Most patients experience a much smoother recovery than they expect. We implement personalized care plans for our patients to enhance post-operative comfort and ensure a painless recovery.
Does the Social Security Institution (SGK) cover breast lift surgery?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) considers breast lift surgery a cosmetic procedure, so it doesn’t cover the cost. However, in certain medical situations, such as excessive sagging causing physical discomfort or functional issues such as severe asymmetry, the procedure may be evaluated with a documented report. However, other than these exceptions, the procedure is covered by private healthcare. You can learn about current costs for 2025 by contacting us for a quote and request a personalized evaluation.
When Should a Breast Lift Be Performed After Childbirth?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, hormonal changes cause breast tissue to expand and contract, causing loose skin. Surgery performed before this period is complete will not yield permanent results. Therefore, women who wish to undergo a breast lift after childbirth are advised to wait at least six months after breastfeeding. During this time, the breast tissue and skin structure will return to their natural state, allowing the surgeon to make more accurate plans. Furthermore, aesthetic results will last longer if the surgery is performed after weight has stabilized. We determine the most appropriate time for your postpartum body type, ensuring safe and lasting results.