Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery is a safe and effective procedure for women who want to improve the appearance of drooping breasts. However, there are some restrictions on eligibility. Ideally, this operation is appropriate when:

• Breasts are sagging
• Breasts have lost their shape and volume
• Breasts are flat or elongated
• The nipples and areolas are pointing downward
• One breast is lower than the other

In addition to these factors, it is also important for a woman to be in good health, have a stable weight and have realistic expectations from the procedure. If the patient intends to have children in the future, it is best to postpone the operation, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the results.

This operation is performed in a clinic or a hospital and usually takes one to three hours. Depending on the degree of the problem and of the intervention, the surgeon will decide the right incision approach, as there are a few options. These can be:

• Two rings (doughnut shaped incisions) around the nipple. This method is ideal for women with small breasts, in order to minimize scarring.
• One incision around the areola that continues vertically down to the middle of the breast crease.
• One incision around the nipple that continues vertically down to the breast crease and along the crease, a case ideal when dealing with significant sagging.

After the incisions are made, breast tissue is removed and reshaped to achieve the desired shape. The nipple can be moved higher on the chest or reduced in size if needed. Finally, the excess skin is removed to create a tighter and more defined appearance. The incisions are closed with stitches and usually heal well.

After a breast lift, there is usually bruising and swelling for a few days. The chest is covered with an elastic bandage for about a week and then a support bra is used for a month. Stitches are removed after one to two weeks. Most patients return to work within a week but exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided for about a month. Dr Ioannidis will give you specific instructions depending on your individual needs after the operation.

The results of the operation are immediately visible and continue to improve as the swelling subsides and the scars disappear. Most patients who have realistic expectations and have thoroughly discussed with the doctor prior to the surgery, are particularly pleased with the appearance of their lifted breasts. Although the results are not permanent, patients will enjoy the new youthful appearance for many years.

Although breast lift is a safe procedure for the right candidates, there are some risks associated with all types of surgical procedures, such as bleeding, infection, reaction to anaesthesia or permanent scarring. The risk of developing these complications is minimized by choosing the right and experienced surgeon, like Dr. Ioannidis. Please contact us to arrange a consultation.