Breast Uplift

What is a Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)?

A breast uplift, or mastopexy, is a procedure designed to raise and reshape the breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple to a more youthful height. It does not significantly change breast size but restores a firmer, lifted shape that may have been lost through pregnancy, weight changes or ageing. The overall aim is natural, refreshed results that better suit your body’s proportions.


Why Choose a Breast Uplift?

Over time, the breasts can lose firmness and begin to droop (known as ptosis). A breast uplift can:

  • Lift the breasts to a more youthful position

  • Improve shape and firmness

  • Correct unevenness or nipple position

  • Help clothing and underwear fit more comfortably

Many women choose this procedure to regain confidence in their body shape without necessarily increasing breast volume.

What to Expect After Surgery

Swelling, tightness and mild discomfort are normal in the first few days. A supportive surgical or front-fastening bra should be worn day and night for several weeks to help maintain the new shape. Light activities can often resume after 1–2 weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
Your breasts will gradually settle over the following months as scars soften and the final shape becomes clearer.

How the Procedure Works

The surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic. The surgeon removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue and repositions the nipple and areola to a natural height. Incision patterns vary depending on how much lift is required — your surgeon will choose the technique that best suits your breast shape and desired outcome.
Most patients go home the same day, although an overnight stay may be recommended in some cases.


Important Considerations & Long-Term Information

A breast uplift provides long-lasting improvement, but the breasts will continue to age naturally over time. Scarring is expected and depends on the technique used — scars fade gradually but will not disappear completely.
Nipple sensation may change temporarily or, in some cases, permanently. Significant weight changes or pregnancy after surgery can also affect long-term results.

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.

Key Features To Be Aware Of:

  • 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

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

  • 16 May 2024 C.A.  Verified patient
    I can not speak highly enough of the care I received under Philippa Jackson. From initial consultation, through surgery, follow up and beyond, my treatment has been exceptional. Any questions/concerns were explained and reassured and my results are far better than expected.
    16 May 2024 C.A. Verified patient
  • 16 May 2024 S.S.  Verified patient
    The care I have received from Miss Jackson is faultless. From the first consultation to the ongoing care after the surgery it has been amazing. She is always available to answer any queries I have and made me feel at ease and comfortable throughout.
    16 May 2024 S.S. Verified patient
  • 17 May 2024 J.M.  Verified patient
    Exceptional care throughout. Had some complications and was amazed at how many times Ms Jackson insisted on coming in to the hospital daily to insure progress and high standard of post op.
    17 May 2024 J.M. Verified patient
  • 19 May 2024 K.W.  Verified patient
    I can't fault Miss Jackson's care, consideration and expertise. Clinical treatment and administration were both excellent.
    19 May 2024 K.W. Verified patient
  • 11 June 2024 E.K.  Verified patient
    Philippa is so empathetic, professional and skilled. I felt listened to and knew I was in safe hands. She achieved an incredible outcome with my reconstruction - beyond even my most optimistic expectations. Philippa gave me back ownership of my body and I recognise myself again.
    11 June 2024 E.K. Verified patient
  • 15 November 2024 S.L.  Verified patient
    Miss Jackson was just brilliant in my consultation with her. She is compassionate and kind, actively listens and exudes calm professionalism. She laid out my options clearly and didn't try to influence me into a decision that I wasn't ready to make.
    15 November 2024 S.L. Verified patient
  • 30 January 2025 F.L.  Verified patient
    Philippa has been absolutely amazing throughout the whole surgery process, from initial consultation, to surgery day and post-op. She explained everything very clearly and was more than happy to speak to me outside of appointments to answer any questions I had.
    30 January 2025 F.L. Verified patient
  • 21 July 2025 A.C.  Verified patient
    Extremely informative and thorough, happy to talk through all procedures in detail and great after care. Very happy with surgery results. Thank you.
    21 July 2025 A.C. Verified patient
  • Miss E.S.
    Thank you so much for everything! You have given me confidence in my body that I never had before! I am truly so happy and cannot thank you enough!’.
    Miss E.S.
    Breast Reduction
  • Ms R.S.
    ‘A massive thank you for the amazing work you have done and for the end result. You have given me my confidence back and I cannot thank you enough. You’re an amazing surgeon and I’m glad I listened to your advice. Your kindness, support and knowledge and friendly smile put me at ease on every appointment. I feel like a new woman that can finally wear my summer dresses and go swimming with convince again. A massive, massive thank you’.
    Ms R.S.
    Breast Asymmetry Correction
  • Mrs A.D.
    ‘I just wanted to write a note to say a huge thank you for all your work on my reconstruction. Even though the journey was sometimes hard, you have always been so positive and supportive. Your skill is not only in the technical side of surgery but also in the psychological support and guidance you offer. The results of my surgeries are both physical and emotional - I am more confident and so pleased with the outcome. Thank you for all that you’ve done’.
    Mrs A.D.
    Breast Cancer Reconstruction

Further information on Miss Jackson's work and independent testimonials can be found on her TopDoctors profile.