A breast lift surgery (mastopexy) is not just a procedure—it’s a transformative experience that can help you rediscover your confidence and enhance your natural beauty. Whether your breasts have changed due to weight fluctuations, ageing, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, a breast lift offers the chance to restore their youthful shape and position, addressing sagging and asymmetry for a refreshed appearance.
At North Bristol Private Hospital, we pair expert care with cutting-edge technology to deliver outstanding results in a luxurious and supportive environment. Our award-winning surgeon, Ms. Elena Prousskaia, brings over 20 years of experience and a meticulous approach to ensure that each surgery is uniquely tailored to meet your personal goals.
For any surgery, preparation and careful consideration is key to achieving the best possible outcome, and our guide outlines everything you need to know—from understanding the different techniques to planning your recovery in our state-of-the-art facility. Whether you’re seeking a subtle lift or combining your mastopexy with other enhancements, this is your first step towards feeling your absolute best.
Discover some of our expert tips for a smooth surgery experience below.
Quick links:
- How to decide if a breast lift is right for you
- How to choose the right time for surgery
- Understand the different types of breast lifts
- Learn how to prepare for surgery
- Find out more about the recovery period
- Discover more about our state-of-the-art North Bristol facility
Decide if a breast lift is right for you
The decision to undergo a breast lift starts with identifying your personal goals and the specific changes you want to achieve. A mastopexy is designed to address sagging and reposition the nipple-areola complex, often affected by ageing, weight changes, or pregnancy. If you’re looking for more volume, a breast augmentation might be recommended alongside the lift.
During your consultation, we will discuss your aesthetic goals and assess your health to ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery. It’s important to be in good physical health and have realistic expectations, which we’ll help set during your appointment.
Choose the right time for breast lift surgery
Choosing the right time for your breast lift is essential to ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery. While life’s changes—such as weight fluctuations—can impact your breast shape, many women choose to have this procedure whenever they’re ready to enhance their appearance. There’s no need to delay your surgery if you’re planning for future changes, as the benefits of a breast lift can be enjoyed now, with the understanding that subtle adjustments may be desired in the years ahead.
To achieve the best recovery, it’s crucial to set aside sufficient downtime. We recommend planning for 4 to 8 weeks of healing, with at least 2 weeks off from work and no driving for at least 4 weeks. Your surgeon will provide a detailed recovery plan, tailored to your unique needs, to ensure you’re well-prepared for this journey.
In the weeks leading up to surgery, lifestyle adjustments—like quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption—are essential to promote faster, smoother healing and to minimise complications. Your surgeon will guide you through every step, making sure you’re in the best possible condition for surgery and recovery.
Understanding the different types of breast lifts
There are various breast lift techniques, each tailored to different degrees of sagging (ptosis). Your surgeon will recommend the method best suited to your breast shape, size, and goals. These methods include:
- Crescent Lift: Suitable for minor sagging, with a small incision around the top of the areola.
- Periareolar Lift: A circular incision around the areola, ideal for moderate sagging.
- Vertical Lift: Addresses more significant sagging with a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease.
- Anchor Lift: The most invasive technique for significant sagging, with incisions around the areola, down to the breast crease, and along the breast fold.
Your surgeon will guide you in choosing the technique that provides the most natural, aesthetically pleasing outcome. You may also decide to combine your lift with breast augmentation for added volume. To see some of the amazing results of our expert surgeons first-hand, take a look at our full gallery here.
“Dr Elena was amazing at alleviating all my anxieties. I had a million question before surgery, and Dr Elena always explained things with such clarity and honesty.
Even after my surgery, when I felt anxious about every minute change, Dr Elena would always provide a response to my queries and made time to see me. She’s a fantastic doctor and has given me fantastic breasts.” – A private patient at London Wellbeck Hospital
Preparing for surgery: timing is everything
Choosing the right time for your breast lift is essential to ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery. While life’s changes—such as weight fluctuations—can impact your breast shape, many women choose to have this procedure whenever they’re ready to enhance their appearance. There’s no need to delay your surgery if you’re planning for future changes, as the benefits of a breast lift can be enjoyed now, with the understanding that subtle adjustments may be desired in the years ahead.
To achieve the best recovery, it’s crucial to set aside sufficient downtime. We recommend planning for 4 to 8 weeks of healing, with at least 2 weeks off from work and no driving for at least 4 weeks. Your surgeon will provide a detailed recovery plan, tailored to your unique needs, to ensure you’re well-prepared for this journey.
In the weeks leading up to surgery, lifestyle adjustments—like quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption—are essential to promote faster, smoother healing and to minimise complications. Your surgeon will guide you through every step, making sure you’re in the best possible condition for surgery and recovery.
Interested in learning more? Meet the whole team behind our incredible private facility.
What to expect while you recover?
The initial recovery period lasts 1 to 2 weeks, during which you should avoid strenuous activities. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal, but these symptoms will subside with time.
You’ll have regular follow up appointments to make sure that you’re recovery is as seamless and worry-free as possible, with consultations taking place at 1, 4, and 12 weeks, as well as after 1 year.
Full recovery may take several months, and it’s important to avoid heavy lifting until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead—typically around the 6-week mark. Scarring will fade over time and can become almost invisible after a year.
“Absolutely amazing. Being in the healthcare field myself, I hold other healthcare professionals to a high standard, and Elena and her staff did not disappoint!
She is a true professional. She is gentle, caring and her work is flawless. She always puts your best interest first and is very honest in her approach. I left her feeling happy and confident with the outcome.” – Private patient
Discover our state-of-the-art facility in the North of Bristol
When you choose us, you’re not just getting a breast lift—you’re getting expert care from a skilled surgeon with extensive experience in performing this procedure. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a serene and private environment, designed to help you feel comfortable and confident. We also provide comprehensive aftercare, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.
Before you make any decisions, take a look at some before and after photos of our breast lift patients in our gallery, or view our wide range of testimonials from our clients to discover why we’re who have trusted us with their transformation.
