What is a breast lift?
Mastopexy, commonly called a breast lift, is an aesthetic plastic surgery procedure that corrects breast ptosis — the descent of the breast caused by loss of skin elasticity and weakening of the supporting ligaments. With this procedure Dr. Marco Galati redesigns the shape of the breast, repositioning the nipple-areola complex in a higher, anatomically correct position and removing the excess skin responsible for the "deflated", relaxed appearance.
The most frequent causes of breast ptosis are numerous: repeated pregnancies and breastfeeding produce major volume changes that stress the tissues; significant weight loss can leave the skin redundant; and natural ageing and gravity progressively lower the breast profile. In all these situations, neither physical exercise nor specific bras can return the breast to its original position, making mastopexy the only effective and lasting solution.
Dr. Galati distinguishes three degrees of ptosis:
- First-degree (mild) ptosis: the nipple sits at the level of the inframammary fold.
- Second-degree (moderate) ptosis: the nipple descends below the fold but remains on the anterior projection of the breast.
- Third-degree (severe) ptosis: the nipple sits at the lowest point of the breast, pointing downwards.
According to the degree of ptosis, the surgeon selects the most appropriate technique, tailoring the extent of the incisions to obtain the optimal result with the most limited scarring possible.
How the operation is performed
Pre-operative assessment
Every pathway begins with an in-depth specialist consultation with Dr. Galati. Breast morphology, the degree of ptosis, skin quality and the patient's expectations are analysed. The necessary pre-operative tests are prescribed: full blood count, coagulation and biochemistry and — for patients over 35 or with a family history of breast disease — breast ultrasound or mammography. In the days before surgery, anticoagulants, anti-inflammatories and supplements based on omega-3, vitamin E or garlic must be suspended, as they can increase bleeding risk.
The surgical technique
Mastopexy is performed under general anaesthesia, as a day case or with one overnight stay, and takes on average 2–3 hours. The most commonly used techniques are:
- Periareolar (Benelli) technique: the incision is limited to the border of the areola. Indicated in mild ptosis with minimal skin excess.
- Vertical ("lollipop") technique: combines a periareolar incision with a vertical extension towards the inframammary fold. Suitable for moderate ptosis.
- Inverted-T (anchor) technique: a periareolar, a vertical and a horizontal incision in the inframammary fold. Indicated for severe ptosis with abundant skin excess.
In every case Dr. Galati repositions the glandular tissue to create a fuller, firmer upper pole, reduces the areola where necessary, removes excess skin and closes with absorbable, intradermal sutures to minimise scarring.
Breast lift with augmentation
When ptosis is associated with significant volume loss — frequent after breastfeeding or major weight loss — Dr. Galati can combine the mastopexy with silicone gel breast implants. This combined procedure achieves both repositioning of the breast and restoration of volume in a single operation, reducing overall surgical time and costs. Implant volume and profile are chosen together with the patient during the pre-operative consultation.
Recovery and results
Post-operative period
At the end of the operation a dedicated post-operative bra is applied, to be worn continuously for 4–6 weeks. In the first days, swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness in the breast are normal. Pain is generally mild and well controlled with the prescribed medication.
Non-absorbable sutures, where used, are removed at around day 10–14. The main follow-up visits are scheduled at 7 days, 30 days, 3 months and 6 months. Light daily activities can be resumed after 7–10 days, while intense physical activity and sports that stress the chest should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Scar care
Scars are unavoidable in mastopexy, but Dr. Galati uses advanced suturing techniques to make them as discreet as possible. During scar maturation — which lasts 12 to 18 months — silicone gel or sheets, scar massage and complete sun protection are recommended. Over time the scars lighten and flatten, becoming barely noticeable.
Long-term results
The definitive result of the breast lift is visible after about 3–6 months, once the post-operative swelling has fully resolved. The breast appears higher and firmer, with a more youthful shape and a correctly positioned nipple. Results are long-lasting — on average 10–15 years — but future pregnancies, weight changes and natural ageing can influence them over time. Maintaining a stable body weight and wearing adequate support bras help preserve the results.
Frequently asked questions
Mastopexy is indicated for women with breast ptosis caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or ageing. The ideal candidate is in good general health, with a stable weight for at least six months and no plans for pregnancy in the short term. Realistic expectations are important. The definitive assessment takes place during the consultation with Dr. Galati, who analyses the degree of ptosis, skin quality and each patient's specific needs.
Yes. Mastopexy can be combined with breast implants (augmentation mastopexy). This is ideal for patients who wish not only to reposition the breast but also to restore its volume, as often happens after breastfeeding or major weight loss. Dr. Galati evaluates case by case whether to perform both procedures in one operation or in two separate stages, always prioritising safety and the quality of the aesthetic result.
Results are long-lasting but not permanent: skin ageing, weight changes and future pregnancies can affect breast shape over time. In most cases results remain satisfactory for 10–15 years. Wearing an adequate support bra and maintaining a stable weight help preserve the benefits; some patients choose a revision lift after many years.
Mastopexy leaves scars that vary with the technique and the degree of ptosis: periareolar, vertical, or inverted-T in severe cases. Dr. Galati uses advanced intradermal suturing and provides precise scar-care instructions — silicone gel, massage, sun protection. Scars fade significantly over 12–18 months and are easily concealed by underwear.
Modern techniques preserve the neurovascular pedicle of the nipple-areola complex, so sensation is maintained in the great majority of cases; temporary changes may occur in the first months. The mammary gland is repositioned rather than removed, so breastfeeding usually remains possible, although it cannot be guaranteed in every case.