Ageing, changes in weight, pregnancies, and even genetics can influence the shape, size, and fullness of breasts. For those women aiming to reclaim youthful and lifted breasts, there are a number of factors and individual drivers that influence the breast lift decision-making process.

Unlike breast augmentation which focuses on enhancing and increasing breast size by engaging an implant or fat transfer – or both, a breast lift procedure, also known as mastopexy, is focused on enhancing shape and contour, and providing lift. Which is why it’s crucial to seek out a qualified cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon specialising in breast procedures to tailor the correct lift procedure to your breast goals and anatomy.

"Across all medical fields, specialists are trained extensively within their respective practice," says Dr. Brandon Adams, cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon at Da Vinci Plastic Surgery Clinic. "Professionals operating beyond their specialty may lack the depth of training needed to handle all aspects of a condition. This can lead to suboptimal outcomes when complications arise."

Globally, breast lift surgeries continue to outpace breast augmentation procedures. In the United States alone, there was a 30% rise in breast lift procedures from 2019 to 2022, driven by various motivations. These include:

• Rapid Weight Loss: Significant weight loss can lead to sagging breasts, a lower nipple position, loss of volume, and excess skin.
• Weight Fluctuations: Fluctuations in weight can result in breast sagging and loss of natural contour.
• Removal of Breast Implants: Removing implants may leave behind loose skin and an uneven breast shape.
• Ageing: With age, breasts are affected by gravity, causing them to droop and nipples to shift position.
• Pregnancy: Post-childbirth changes can result in breast sagging, decreased firmness, and potential asymmetry.

So, what should you expect from a mastopexy? A breast lift alone does not add volume but focuses on reshaping breast contours, tightening tissues, raising breast position, and correcting asymmetries, such as nipple repositioning and resizing the areola. The goal is to achieve a naturally perky and well-proportioned aesthetic.

Before undergoing a breast lift, it's essential to discuss any additional procedure specifics. A cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon who specialises in breast surgeries will determine whether a breast lift alone suffices or if additional procedures such as fat grafting, a breast reduction, or breast augmentation (with implants or fat grafting) are needed to achieve your goals.

Everyone’s breast journey is different, but you may be experiencing any of the below examples:

• Your breasts are sagging below the crease or your nipples point downwards. So, combining a breast lift with augmentation (via implants or fat grafting) will provide lift, additional volume and firmness.
• You may have significant volume loss, due to weight loss or pregnancy. This may require implants to restore fullness and shape, in conjunction with a lift to tighten lax tissues.
• Your nipples are pointing downward, so you are seeking a mastopexy to lift breast tissue and reposition stretched nipples effectively.
• Your breasts are lopsided or on the smaller side. You may benefit from a combination of implants and a lift to enhance symmetry and size.

With any breast procedure – implant, reduction or lift – your goals should be on the frontline of decisionmaking.

"The patient's desired outcome drives the treatment plan," explains Adam Bialostocki, cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon at Da Vinci Plastic Surgery Clinic. "A skilled specialist can then recommend the most suitable technique, whether it involves implants, fat grafting, or a combination thereof."

Whatever your reasons for reaching for a breast lift or any breast procedure, it's essential to trust experienced professionals who prioritise individualised care.

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