Breast Uplift

A breast uplift, or mastopexy, is a procedure designed to restore a more youthful breast shape by lifting and reshaping the tissue. Over time, the breasts naturally lose firmness and position due to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight changes. Many women find that this affects their confidence, clothing choices, and overall body image. Philippa Jackson’s approach to mastopexy ensures that results are tailored to each individual, creating a natural and balanced outcome.

The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually lasts around two to three hours. During surgery, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful level. Scars are carefully placed to be as discreet as possible, and in many cases, they fade significantly with time. Patients usually go home the same day or after a short overnight stay.

Recovery includes swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness across the breasts in the first one to two weeks. A supportive bra should be worn continuously to protect the new shape and provide comfort during healing. Most women feel able to return to work and light daily activities after two weeks, but strenuous exercise and lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.

Follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor healing and provide scar care guidance. As swelling settles, the breasts take on their final shape, which continues to improve over several months. Mastopexy does not change breast size, but it restores contour, firmness, and position, offering long-lasting improvements in confidence and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What does surgery involve?
Before surgery you will be marked to determine the new height of your nipple and the placement of your scars. Once asleep the excess skin is removed. Stitches are placed to reform the shape of the breast and a dressing is placed on the skin.
2How can I prepare for surgery?
You will need to buy a post-surgical front-fastening bra. You should buy a selection of sizes. You will need to wear the bra day and night for 6 weeks after surgery. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication.
3What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. You should be aware that a breast uplift initially places the breast tissue high on the chest but with time the tissues will relax and the breast will settle into a more natural position.
4What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical bra day and night for 6 weeks.
5What about breast feeding?
If you have not started or completed your family you should consider the possibility that you will not be able to breastfeed. Patients are told they will not be able to breastfeed but you may still wish to try and some patients are successful.
6What about mammograms?
When having mammograms in the future you should let them know you have had surgery. There is a higher chance you will be recalled to check an area in the breast but there is no increased chance of getting breast cancer after this surgery. You may be advised to get a mammogram prior to having surgery. This could be related to a high-risk family history or if you are due for a mammogram on the national screening programme. Miss Jackson will advise you when you come for your out-patient appointment.
7Will my breasts drop in the future?
Yes – we cannot escape gravity. However, with a breast uplift operation the goal is to achieve a long-term, higher position of the breast tissue on the chest wall.
  • Surgical time – 2-3 hours
  • Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
  • Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
  • Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
  • Shower – immediately
  • Reasonably mobile – 2-7 days
  • Sleeping position – back or side
  • Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
  • Bras and garments – front fastening post-op bra for 6 weeks day and night
  • Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks when comfortable
  • Full recovery – 6 weeks
  • Driving – 1-2 weeks