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Breast Lift

Mastopexy

A breast lift raises and reshapes breasts that have lost firmness, repositioning the nipple-areola complex and removing excess skin. It is designed to restore a more youthful contour, not to significantly change breast size.

Breast Lift
Duration2–3 hours
AnaesthesiaGeneral
Hospital stayDay case
Back to work7–10 days

Who this procedure suits

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes and gravity can stretch the skin and supporting tissue of the breast, causing it to lose shape and sit lower on the chest. A breast lift addresses this sagging by removing excess skin and repositioning breast tissue and the nipple, without necessarily adding or removing volume.

A good candidate if

  • Breasts that have lost firmness and shape after pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Nipples that point downward or fall below the breast crease when unsupported
  • Stretched, loose breast skin following significant weight loss
  • Noticeable difference in position or shape between the two breasts

Not suitable if

  • Plans for future pregnancy, which can affect the surgical result
  • Active smoking, which raises the risk of wound healing problems
  • Uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions that impair healing
  • A wish to significantly increase breast size, better suited to lift combined with implants

How the procedure is performed

Consultation

Dr Cardinali examines breast shape, skin quality and nipple position, and discusses the technique and scar pattern suited to your anatomy.

Preparation

Pre-operative blood tests, a mammogram or breast ultrasound if indicated, and clear instructions on medications and smoking cessation.

Surgery

Performed under general anaesthesia, excess skin is removed and the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher on the breast mound.

Follow-up

Wound checks in the first weeks, with garment and activity guidance reviewed at each visit as swelling settles.

Breast Lift

Recovery — what actually happens

Day 1-3Rest with a supportive surgical bra. Mild to moderate discomfort, managed with prescribed medication.
Week 1Swelling and bruising are visible. Gentle arm movement is comfortable and light daily activities can resume.
Week 2-4Stitches or dressings reviewed. Most swelling and tenderness continue to improve steadily.
Month 2-3Breast shape settles further. Gentle exercise can usually be resumed with clearance.
Month 6-12Scars continue to fade and soften. Final breast shape and position are apparent.

Honest medicine — the risks

Every surgical procedure carries potential risks. Risks vary with the procedure and your health, and the surgeon will discuss them with you along with the measures used to reduce them:

ScarringIncision patterns are planned to sit within the natural breast contour, and scar care is guided at each follow-up visit.
InfectionSterile surgical technique and antibiotics are used, with wounds monitored closely afterward.
Delayed wound healingSmoking cessation and careful tension-free closure reduce this risk.
Changes in nipple or breast sensationTemporary numbness is common; sensation typically improves over months but can occasionally remain altered.
AsymmetryCareful preoperative markings and surgical technique aim to minimise differences between the two breasts.
Thromboembolism (blood clots)Early mobilisation and compression measures are used to lower this risk during recovery.
Difficulty breastfeeding in futureTechnique selection aims to preserve as much glandular tissue and duct continuity as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Will a breast lift make my breasts bigger?

No. A lift reshapes and repositions breast tissue but does not add volume. If more fullness is desired, it can be combined with implants.

Where will the scars be?

Scar position depends on how much lifting is needed. Common patterns run around the areola, vertically down the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease.

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?

Many women can, but breastfeeding ability can be affected depending on the technique used. This is discussed individually during consultation.

How long does the result last?

Results are long-lasting, but breast tissue continues to respond to ageing, weight change and pregnancy over time.

Is a breast lift painful?

Most patients describe tightness and moderate discomfort in the first days, well controlled with prescribed pain relief.

Is this procedure right for you?

The only correct answer comes from a clinical examination. Book a consultation — in person, or by video if you are outside the UAE.

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