604.281.3866
Unit 209 - 575 16th St 
West Vancouver, BC

What does mastopexy or a breast lift involve?

1. Incision types:

Your surgeon will make incisions in strategic locations on the breast to remove excess skin and reposition the breast tissue and nipple areola complex. 

 

The common incision patterns are:​

• *Vertical (lollipop):  An incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast crease. This is Dr. Klok's typical approach and results in shorter surgical scars.

• Anchor or inverted T: Incisions around the areola, down to the breast crease, and along the crease itself. This imight be considered for more significant skin excess and ptosis.

​

2. Reshaping the breast tissue:

After the incisions are made, the Dr. Klok will remove excess skin and, if necessary, reshape the underlying breast tissue to lift and support the breast. The nipple and areola are also repositioned higher on the breast mound to give the breasts a more youthful contour.  Sometimes excess breast volume is removed particularly in the lower breast area if it is adding too much weight to the breast and pulling them down. 

​

3. Possible Breast Augmentation:

In some cases, mastopexy is combined with breast augmentation (implants) to add volume to the breast. This is often done when the patient has lost volume in the breasts (due to pregnancy or aging) and wants to both lift and enhance the size.

​

4. Closing the incisions:

The incisions are closed with dissolving type sutures, dressings are applied and a supportive surgical bra is placed to help reduce swelling and support the newly lifted shape.  The dressings are removed in about 6-8 days post surgery and the bra is to be worn for the first 4 weeks after surgery.  

​

5. Anesthetic:

This surgery is always performed under a general anesthetic typically at a private surgical centre.  

​

​

Recovery

• Post-surgery care: You’ll be instructed to wear a special support bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts during the healing process.

• Downtime: Recovery typically involves 1-2 weeks of rest. Most people can return to normal activities within a couple of weeks, but strenuous activities, like exercise or heavy lifting, need to be avoided for 4 weeks.

• Swelling and bruising: Some swelling and bruising are normal, but they usually subside after a few weeks. The final results typically take up to 6 months to fully manifest as the breasts settle into their new shape.

 

Results

Mastopexy can give you firmer, more youthful-looking breasts that are higher and more symmetric. The results are long-lasting, though the natural aging process, pregnancy, or significant weight changes can affect the outcome over time.

​

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, or complications from anesthesia. Dr. Klok will have a thorough consultation with you to discuss your goals and determine if mastopexy is the right procedure for you.

​

Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Klok if you would like to learn more about this surgery.