Sagging breasts are a common concern for many women, regardless of age or breast size. Many factors can cause your breasts to sag more, including age, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and sometimes even genetics.
If sagging breasts are a concern of yours, then you may have already scoured the internet for non-surgical fixes and advice. While supportive bras and prioritising a healthy diet and hydration for enhanced skin elasticity can help reduce the speed of change, non-surgical approaches are very unlikely to deliver the long-term results you’re looking for.
With this in mind, please find our guidance on a more long-term fix – surgery for saggy breasts – with advice on what you can expect from the procedure and the recovery process.
My breasts are sagging. What can I do?
Depending on how noticeable or severe your breast sagging is, you may already be aware of a few non-surgical solutions that could help you feel more comfortable in yourself and your appearance.
Popular solutions include firm-support bras and targeted chest exercises like push-ups and chest presses. Exercise can contribute to improved posture and strengthen the pectoral muscles (helping the breasts appear more lifted). However, as the breasts are made of fat and breast tissue and not muscle, these solutions won’t fix the underlying issue in the long term.
For a reliable long-term fix, breast lift (mastopexy) surgery can bring firmness back to your breasts and help you regain confidence in your body. The results of a breast lift surgery can last anywhere between ten and fifteen years.
What is a breast lift surgery, and how is it done?
A breast lift surgery (also known as a mastopexy) is a surgical breast procedure performed under general anaesthetic that removes excess skin and sometimes a small amount of breast tissue. The remaining tissue is then lifted and ‘re-coned’ for a firmer and fuller appearance.
They are an effective solution for saggy breasts and downward-pointed nipples, especially if you’re unhappy with where and how they sit.
Your breast lift surgery options
There are two types of breast lift surgery to consider depending on your desired look, shape, and silhouette.
Mastopexy (breast uplift)
A standard mastopexy surgery doesn’t add any volume to the breasts and instead focuses on re-shaping using the existing breast tissue. A breast lift surgery without implants is an ideal solution if you’re happy with the size of your breasts but would prefer a more lifted appearance and shape.
Mastopexy augmentation (breast uplift surgery with implants)
In contrast, a breast lift with implant (augmentation mastopexy) surgery offers all of the benefits of a breast lift with the insertion of implants for enhanced volume and shape. This surgery is a popular option for those who have lost a lot of weight and want their breasts to appear and feel fuller.
The size of the breast implant is determined based on your existing breast tissue and your desired appearance. Your natural proportions will also be considered to ensure symmetry between the breasts.
Common questions about breast lift surgery
We understand that the decision to get breast lift surgery isn’t a straightforward one.
Maybe you’ve tried non-surgical solutions but had no luck, and perhaps you’ve been feeling down about your breasts for quite some time but haven’t had the confidence to explore your options.
What matters most is that you’ve started your research, which is arguably the hardest part. Breast lift surgery is a very personal decision, but one that will bring you the confidence you deserve when guided by professional advice.
If you are looking for expert advice on breast surgery lift surgery in Newcastle, get in touch with expert breast surgeon Adam Critchley.
How long does breast lift surgery take?
Mastopexy and mastopexy augmentation surgeries usually take between two to three hours to complete. At Adam Critchley, we have at least three options to suit your requirements.
Option 1, the standard mastopexy surgery, focuses on elevating and reshaping the breast tissue to boost nipple projection without the need to use an implant (‘auto-augmentation’). This is ideal for those patients who wish to remain implant free in the long term.
Option 2 involves combining mastopexy along with silicone implant augmentation to further boost breast volume and projection. This can either be delivered in 1 or 2 stages and Adam will discuss these options with you in clinic.
How long is recovery from breast lift surgery?
It is important to note that the recovery process after breast lift surgery varies from patient to patient.
- First week: You may experience swelling, bruising, and general discomfort around the breast area. We recommend a supportive surgical bra and limited upper body movement during this time.
- Two to four weeks: You can now return to light activities, avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Your swelling and bruising should start to minimise at this point.
- Six to eight weeks: You can return to normal daily activities.
It is a relatively minor body surface surgery, but some discomfort during recovery is expected. However, you will be provided with a nerve-block injection in addition to a general anaesthetic before surgery, providing up to 24 hours of pain relief. You will also receive oral pain medications to use after this period.
Our breast consultant Adam rarely uses drains within this type of breast surgery, which contributes to optimised pain relief and post-operative recovery. You will stay in for the night after your surgery and then be discharged after all post-operative checks and reviews have been conducted by Adam and his team.
Adam Critchley: Newcastle’s trusted breast surgeon
Adam, the best breast surgeon in Newcastle will ensure your comfort at every stage of your breast lift surgery.
Your safety and comfort are our priorities at all times — our patient reviews really showcase the care the Adam and his team take with each and every patient.
Get in touch with Adam Critchley today for a no-obligation chat to discuss your breast uplift or breast lift and augmentation in Newcastle.
