A mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, is a specialist surgical procedure that elevates and reshapes the breasts to restore a firmer and more youthful contour.
Mastopexy is a breast lifting procedure that reshapes the breast by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue and repositioning the nipple to a more central and youthful height. Unlike breast augmentation, mastopexy does not primarily increase breast size, although it can be combined with implants or fat transfer if volume restoration is desired.
A mastopexy restores support, recreates breast projection and reshapes the overall contour of the breast. It is an effective solution for women whose breasts have stretched, flattened or sagged as a result of ageing, pregnancy or weight loss.
During mastopexy at 101 Harley Street, our consultants use refined techniques designed to enhance both aesthetic outcome and long term stability while minimising visible scarring. The aim is to lift the breast into a natural, proportionate position that complements the patient’s silhouette.
Women may consider mastopexy if they are experiencing:
Mastopexy can be performed alone or combined with breast augmentation or breast reduction depending on your goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your anatomy, breast tissue quality and desired outcome to determine the most appropriate approach.
At 101 Harley Street, patient satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. Our reviews reflect the expertise of our consultants, the quality of our care, and the exceptional results our patients experience. From your first consultation to full recovery, our team is dedicated to providing a seamless, supportive and reassuring journey, something our patients consistently highlight in their feedback. Below you can see our verified google reviews. You can also see more reviews on Doctify.
Doctor Dan Wright is not only one of the kindest and nicest human beings you could ever meet he’s one of the most professional. At every stage of my procedure I felt reassured and in very safe hands. I would not normally post a review of anything that isn’t a restaurant or a barber but I felt compelled to here because my experience was so wonderful. Fantastic stuff. Brilliant.
I recently had surgery at 101 Harley Street and was impressed by the level of care and professionalism displayed by the entire team. I was greeted with friendly staff which immediately made me feel comforted, and this genuine care continued throughout the entire journey. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone seeking quality medical care.
Dr Dan and his team at 101 are exceptional. I was made to feel so comfortable and relaxed during my procedure and everything is done with the highest level of professionalism. Can’t recommend them enough!
Staff were all extremely kind and thoughtful all through the process. I always come away feeling like I’ve had the best chat with good friends over a delicious coffee in a gorgeous spot. And all the while… also leaving with healthier skin. I’ve loved working with Emma and Duncan and everyone else at 101!
I had a procedure recently at 101 and I’m so happy with how it went! The staff and the consultant were super friendly and made me feel safe and welcome. The results of my procedure are fantastic and I will recommend to all of my friends and family.
Mastopexy is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes approximately two to three hours. The specific technique used will depend on the amount of lift required and the quality of your skin and tissue.
Although the exact approach varies, the procedure generally includes:
Common incision patterns include the periareolar incision, the vertical lollipop incision or the anchor incision. Your consultant will recommend the most suitable technique based on your breast anatomy and desired outcome.
You will rest in our recovery suite before returning home the same day under the care of a responsible adult.
A mastopexy can provide both aesthetic and functional improvements, including:
| Benefits of Mastopexy |
|---|
A firmer, more youthful breast shape |
Repositioned nipples that sit naturally on the breast mound |
Enhanced projection and upper pole definition |
Improved symmetry |
Better alignment of breast volume and torso proportions |
Increased comfort in fitted clothing and swimwear |
Renewed confidence in physical appearance |
It is common to have questions about a surgical procedure. Some key questions here that we receive from patients considering a mastopexy.
If you are looking for more general information about what happens from your first consultation to aftercare visit our Your Journey page to understand how we guide each patient through the consultation, surgery, and recovery process within our Harley Street surgical centre.
Discomfort after mastopexy is common but usually manageable with simple pain relief. The surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you will be comfortable throughout the procedure.
Most patients resume light activities within one to two weeks of mastopexy. Full recovery and return to exercise typically take four to six weeks.
All mastopexy procedures involve scarring, but surgeons use refined incision techniques to keep scars as discreet as possible. Scars fade over time and are placed to sit naturally under clothing and swimwear.
Mastopexy lifts and reshapes the breast rather than significantly changing its size. If increased volume is desired, mastopexy can be combined with breast implants or fat transfer.
Temporary changes in sensation can occur after mastopexy as nerves recover. Most patients notice improvement as healing progresses.
Results from mastopexy are long lasting. However, gravity, ageing and weight fluctuations will continue to influence breast shape over time.
Some women may still breastfeed after mastopexy, although it cannot be guaranteed. Your consultant will discuss your goals and how different techniques may influence future breastfeeding.
Gentle walking is encouraged early on, but high impact exercise should be avoided for several weeks. Your consultant will advise when it is safe to resume training based on your progress.
As with all surgery, mastopexy carries risks. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation and may include:
Bruising or swelling
Temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation
Delayed wound healing
Mild asymmetry
Visible scarring
Infection
Potential difficulty breastfeeding in the future
At 101 Harley Street, procedures are performed in CQC compliant facilities by experienced consultants to ensure meticulous care and oversight at every stage.
Our generously proportioned theatre can accommodate cases performed under general anaesthetic, intravenous sedation and local anaesthetic. We also have two treatment/consultation rooms where consultations and other minor operative procedures can be performed.
Our spacious, newly modernised operating theatre has been designed and equipped to provide surgeons and anaesthetists with an optimised environment to perform ambulatory day case surgical procedures. It is a very flexible space and can accommodate a wide range of non-infectious cases performed with local anaesthesia, IV sedation or full TIVA general anaesthesia (ASA Grade 1 and 2 only).
To learn more about what is involved before, during and after surgery, visit our journey page below.
Each member of our team of friendly, welcoming and highly skilled nurses and administrative staff has been individually chosen for their compassion, enthusiasm and dedication to providing our patients and medical staff with an unparalleled level of care.
