Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Verified Reviews and Testimonials

“Very professional, a genuine Gentleman, puts you at ease , brilliant staff at all departments “
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“Kind, supportive care was provided at every step of my examination and procedure. “
Verified PatientDoctify
“Very friendly, put me at my ease and explained things very clearly. “
Verified PatientDoctify
"Can’t recommend enough, very professional with an excellent manner that out me at ease and understood the action plan. Will certainly return to Mr Critchley as and when necessary."
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For many, pert and lifted breasts can boost their confidence exponentially. Breasts change over time, particularly as we age. They can also lower, sag, and droop for many reasons — from pregnancy and breastfeeding to weight changes. If you’re seeking firmer breasts, mastopexy (or breast lift surgery) could be the ideal procedure for you.

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Before & After Breast Lift Surgery

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Verified Reviews and Testimonials

Mr Adam Critchley
5.0
Based on 18 reviews
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Madelin AsirMadelin Asir
21:21 30 Jul 25
I had been considering a breast reduction for a couple of years before I ended up having my first consultation with Mr Critchley and as a 21 year old this was a massive step for me to take. From the first consultation, Mr Critchley was extremely professional, friendly and made me feel at ease and comfortable. He explained everything in detail and answered any questions I had surrounding the surgery, this was when I knew I was making the right decision. I am now 5 months post op and feel so much better and more confident in myself. The results are amazing and show Mr Critchleys skill. I highly recommend Mr Critchley to anyone thinking about getting breast surgery.
Sharon MacfegganSharon Macfeggan
15:31 01 Jun 25
I found Mr Critchley very informative, helpful and caring. He listened to what I wanted and the results were perfect.
eve walldereve wallder
14:53 24 May 25
I had been considering a breast reduction for many years already by the time I ended up in a consultation with Mr Critchley. I had many different delays preventing me from taking this step in my surgery but my main reluctance was anxiety in having to be open to the discussion and the inevitable examination. I explained this to Mr Critchley and I could not have asked for a more professional, reassuring and understanding reaction to my fear and shyness. Mr Critchley did his utmost to make me comfortable, keep me well informed and reassure me on every step of the process from first meeting right through to my last check up during my recovery. He double checked every piece of information and made sure I understood everything raised to have us consistently on the same page so that I always knew what was upcoming. The day of the surgery was very calm and I was confident while getting prepared for the pending procedure. Mr Critchley even called my contact himself when he was done, as they had been waiting nervously, while I was still asleep to have them arrive right when I was returned to my room which made them feel reassured that I was well.I am now 4 months post op and I could not be happier. My chest had a negative impact on almost every part of my life, exercise, sleeping, sitting, wearing clothes, pain and weight just to name a few. My new shape and size along with smooth healing have given me everything I needed to push for a new, more confident and less shadowed with pain way of living that I am extremely grateful for.I recommend Mr Critchley wholeheartedly all around but especially if you find yourself nervous or reluctant to take that first step.
Fiona RajeFiona Raje
10:55 11 Feb 25
From the initial consultation, through to surgery, and after care, Mr Critchley showed tremendous understanding and sensitivity. He listened to my situation and tailored his advice to my needs. I felt confident going ahead with surgery and his skill is exhibited in the results that have been achieved.
Emma WelchEmma Welch
20:15 05 Feb 25
From the first consultation Mr Critchley made me feel at ease and comfortable in discussing surgery and reasons behind it. He explained everything in detail from start to finish which made me feel 100% confident I was making the right decision to have surgery. He is extremely friendly, professional and very knowledgeable. I am 6 days post op and I already feel so much better in myself. I would highly recommend Mr Critchley to anyone wanting to undergo surgery.
Jenna BriggsJenna Briggs
07:30 04 Sep 24
I was experiencing breast pain approximately two years after a breast augmentation and after meeting with two health professionals i still didn’t feel I was being listened to or reassured. I did my research and requested an appointment with Mr Critchley. He was extremely caring, he listened to my concerns and validated my feelings. He was thorough with his explanations and very understanding. He called me for a follow up appointment and was genuinely interested in how I’ve been managing the pain conservatively. If I need any further assistance in the future or if my symptoms change I would not hesitate to contact Mr Critchley again. Thank you.
Katie GillKatie Gill
21:26 21 Aug 24
Mr Critchley has been amazing, he takes the time to explain things well and makes you feel comfortable enough to ask as many questions as you would like.He is professional and committed and even took the time to speak with me over the phone during his annual leave after my procedure to reassure me. I am extremely pleased with my results. I would highly recommend Mr Critchley!
Dawn GilroyDawn Gilroy
07:51 25 May 24
I have recently undergone a breast reduction with Mr Critchley and I am delighted with the results. He has a calm relaxed manner which puts you at ease. Everything is explained clearly to you with absolutely no pressure. A lovely professional team and I highly recommend team.
Jools StewartJools Stewart
21:55 22 Jan 24
My whole procedure was dealt with in a sensitive way. Mr Critchley gave me all the information I needed to be fully informed. I would have no hesitation in recommending him if you are looking for a breast surgeon.
Lindsay GLindsay G
20:34 03 Jan 24
I went to see Mr Critchley for some revision surgery after meeting him following a lump I had, which turned out to be a cyst on my breast. From the first time I met Mr Critchley I felt very at ease. I'd previously had breat surgery elsewhere and was unhappy with the results. Mr Critchley listened and asked me what I was unhappy with and what I was looking to change. Mr Critchley took the time to actually listen to me and talk me through all of the different options available. I never at any point felt pressured into surgery or making a decision.On the day or surgery he came to see me to explain in detail what was going to happen and reassured my husband who had many questions! Mr Critchley makes you feel very at ease and cared for, he also rung my husband aftery surgery to reassure him everything was ok which my husband was very impressed with and really appreciated.The aftercare Mr Critchley has provided has been outstanding, I can't thank him enough for the results, I'm coming up to 4 weeks post op and can't believe the change, it has been life changing.I can't recommend Mr Critchley enough and if anyone is looking to have surgery then Mr Critchley is the one to see.
Amanda MorganAmanda Morgan
19:10 13 Dec 23
From my initial consultation with Mr. Critchley I found him extremely professional, friendly and approachable. He is very personable and he put me at ease immediately at what is a very anxious time. Mr. Critchley explained with clarity every aspect of the procedure and gave me realistic expectations of what may be achieved. I was under no pressure or obligation to go ahead with the operation and was given time until my second consultation appointment to make my decision. Having contemplated the surgery for over 15 years I now had no doubt about proceeding under the care of Mr. Critchley.I am now three weeks post-op and although I do still have some swelling and bruising, the transformation is truly amazing! I know that this is going to change my life for the better.I have received excellent care from Mr. Critchley and all of his team at the Nuffield Hospital, Newcastle and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone who is considering this type of procedure in the future.Many thanks !!
Deborah SargeantDeborah Sargeant
08:10 30 Nov 23
After a complicated history of breast surgery and seeking revision surgery I researched and met Mr Critchley.From the initial consultation I felt at ease, he took the time to listen and take on board my concerns. Everything was discussed in great detail, the options, choices, expected outcome.I felt totally secure going in for surgery. On the day Mr Critchley explained everything again in detail and visited me post op and prior to my discharge.The level of care and expertise was phenomenal. The outcome of the surgery exceeds my expectation. I cannot convey the gratitude I feel.I would recommend anyone considering breast surgery to meet Mr Critchley. I have undergone surgery many times however his genuine care and compassion combined with supreme expertise makes him outstanding.
Abby EgglestonAbby Eggleston
10:26 29 Nov 23
My experience with Mr Critchley has been nothing but amazing from start to finish. My initial consultation was very informative, he made me feel very at ease and was incredibly professional. On the day of my surgery he came to see me and explained everything that would be happening, again he made me feel more relaxed and assured me everything was going to be okay as I was very nervous. The surgery went amazingly and the results are more than what I could have wished for. Mr Critchley came to see me as soon as I woke up from surgery and again the following day to make sure everything was okay. He went over aftercare and arranged my follow up appointments. During my appointment with the nurse a week later he came to see me and examined my wounds and asked me how I was feeling. Then my two week appointment was with Mr Critchley where he examined me, answered all my questions and explained more aftercare to look after my scars. Overall, I could not recommend Mr Critchley enough, he is incredibly thorough, professional and good at what he does. He has truly changed my life for the better. Thank you so much!
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What is a breast lift?

A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and create a rejuvenated, more youthful-looking bust. Unlike breast enlargement surgery, breast uplift surgery does not add volume to the breasts but instead lifts and ‘re-cones’ them, creating a fuller appearance. 

Having said this, you can also undergo a breast lift with implants, which combines mastopexy surgery with implants to increase cup size while lifting.

You might choose to have a mastopexy if you’re unhappy with where your breasts sit, or if they’ve lost shape and volume, or if significant weight loss – whether through diet, lifestyle changes, or medications like Ozempic – has caused your breasts to sag. Perhaps your nipples point downwards and fall below your breast crease, or one breast is lower than the other. 

As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to take time to make the decision to have a breast lift. We always recommend speaking with a qualified surgeon like Adam Critchley to ensure the procedure is right for you.

What happens during breast lift surgery?

If you are contemplating a breast lift, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what breast lift surgery and recovery entails.

Preparation

When you opt for a breast lift, the process will begin with a consultation with Adam Critchley. During this part of the process, Adam will assess your breasts, discuss your medical history, and check your eligibility. Together, you’ll discuss what you want to get from the procedure, and you will be given a walk through of what to expect before, during, and after surgery. 

After signing a consent form, you’ll be booked in for your surgery. Smoking can increase your recovery time, so if you do smoke, it’s required that you give up cigarettes at least eight weeks before your appointment, and stop using a nicotine vape at least four weeks before surgery.

The surgery

On the day of your mastopexy, the surgeon will again assess your breasts, using a special pen to mark the changes they will make. These incisions will usually be along the breast crease, around the areola, and vertically from the areola down to the breast crease. The breast crease scar can vary in length from 6-8 cm to the full width of the breast depending on how much skin needs to be removed.

You’ll undergo general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep during the procedure itself, which can take up to three hours. The anaesthetist will also place ultrasound guided nerve blocks to minimise any post-operative pain.  Once you’re in the theatre, your surgeon will make the incisions they marked out, reshape the breast tissue, and remove excess skin and breast tissue. If you’re having a breast lift with augmentation, they will also insert implants. They will also reposition and resize your nipple-areolar complex.

Risks and side effects

No cosmetic surgery is free from risks and side effects, so it’s vital to have an awareness of these before your breast lift procedure. 

In rare cases, complications can arise from breast lift surgery. These include infection, bleeding, sepsis, and loss of some breast tissue (including the nipple).

It’s normal to experience mild side effects following mastopexy, including:

  • Soreness, tenderness, swelling, and bruising — which may last a few weeks.
  • Scarring — although this can be noticeable at first, it does tend to fade over time.
  • Changes to nipple sensation.

Breast lift recovery

As with any surgical procedure, there is some recovery time after a breast lift. 

After completing the surgery, you will be fitted with a support bra on the ward before discharge. At Adam Critchley, mastopexy patients do not typically require any drainage tubes. We use slowly dissolving sutures and water-resistant dressings.

Recovery time from surgery will vary depending on your unique circumstances. However, you can usually expect the following timeline:

  • On the day of surgery: You’ll rest until the anaesthetic has worn off. When you have surgery with Adam Critchley, you’ll have an overnight stay in one of our comfortable private rooms or be discharged as a daycase to recover within the comfort of your own home.
  • The first few days: You may feel tender and require painkillers. You’ll need to continue wearing your surgical support bra, and it’s best to sleep on your back. We recommend avoiding any bending or lifting and keeping your chest dry.
  • The first two weeks: You may need a couple of weeks off work to recover, and it’s important to avoid sexual activity for the first two weeks. Check with your surgeon when you can get back to usual activities such as showering. We recommend continuing to wear a soft support bra.
  • The first six weeks: You might experience numbness around your nipples and breast skin, but this should wear off after around six weeks. 

It can take a couple of years for scars to fade — please see our guide to breast surgery scar recovery and care for more information.

Day case vs overnight stay for breast lift surgery

We understand that every patient is different – and so is every recovery. That’s why we offer both day case and overnight stay options for mastopexy (breast lift) procedures, tailored to your unique needs.

Overnight stay surgery 

Some breast lift procedures at our clinic include an overnight hospital stay, allowing you to recover in a calm and supportive medical environment.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • A private en-suite room at a leading private hospital
  • Dedicated nursing care available throughout the night
  • Early monitoring of swelling, discomfort, and wound condition
  • Access to pain relief and medical support as needed
  • A more relaxed transition from surgery to home

This approach ensures you’re fully comfortable and stable before discharge. It’s especially recommended if your procedure involves larger volume adjustments, repositioning of the nipple-areolar complex, or if you simply prefer the reassurance of overnight monitoring.

Day case breast lift surgery

In some cases, a breast lift may be safely performed as a day case, meaning you return home the same day as your procedure. This is only recommended for carefully selected patients who meet the following criteria:

  • A straightforward surgical plan with minimal tissue removal
  • Good general health and no complicating medical conditions
  • Adequate home support for the first 24–48 hours post-op
  • Personal preference for recovering in a familiar setting

Day case benefits include:

  • Lower overall cost by removing overnight hospital accommodation
  • Earlier return home and the ability to rest in your own space
  • Same exceptional surgical technique and safety protocols

Whether you stay overnight or go home the same day, your care will include the same surgical precision, post-operative pain management, and close follow-up from our team. Adam will assess your suitability for day case or overnight surgery at your initial consultation. 

How much is a breast lift?

The price of breast lift surgery varies depending on your surgeon and their experience. At Adam Critchley, you can expect your breast lift to cost £8,400 (bilateral). For a breast lift with implants, it’s £9,872.

These prices can vary and will cover everything you’ll need, from anaesthetic and an overnight hospital stay(if required), to discharge medication and follow-up appointments. 

Please note you’ll also need an initial consultation for an additional £200.

Why choose Adam Critchley for your breast lift surgery?

Mastopexy surgery is a significant procedure that can change many lives for the better. When searching for the ideal surgeon, it’s important to consider the practitioner’s credentials and the clinic’s facilities, as well as reviews from other patients. 

The team at Adam Critchley is experienced, caring, and supportive. Adam Critchley, is one of the top breast lift surgeons in the UK. He has over twelve years of dedicated experience as a Consultant Breast Surgeon and offers personalised, transformative cosmetic surgery.

If breast lift surgery sounds like a positive step for you, please feel free to book a consultation with Adam Critchley. You can also explore our patient guides for more information on breast surgery and contact the team if you have any questions.