Mastopexy, also known as breast lift surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to restore a firmer, more youthful breast shape by lifting sagging breast tissue. Over time, nearly every part of the body is affected by gravity-and the breasts are no exception.
As the years pass, breast tissue can lose its natural firmness and begin to droop downward. A mastopexy procedure reshapes and lifts the breasts, helping them appear more elevated and balanced. In many cases, the results can closely resemble the breast position and contour from years earlier, achieved in a single surgical session.
At Op. Dr. Tuğba Dindar Clinic in Tekirdağ, located near Istanbul, mastopexy is planned according to each patient's anatomy and expectations, providing safe, natural-looking outcomes for both local and international patients seeking aesthetic treatments in Turkey.
What Causes Breast Sagging?
Breasts rest on top of the chest wall and are not supported by muscle in the same way other body parts are. For this reason, factors such as genetics, skin elasticity, and lifestyle can increase the tendency for breast sagging (breast ptosis).
Some of the most common causes include:
- Weight gain and weight loss: Frequent weight fluctuations stretch the skin and reduce firmness, often leading to more noticeable sagging.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Hormonal changes and breast volume variations during and after pregnancy can contribute to sagging.
- Aging and gravity: Over time, the skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity, allowing the breasts to descend.
In these situations, many women begin searching for how breast lift surgery is performed and whether the breast shape can be improved without multiple procedures. Mastopexy is often the most effective solution when the main concern is drooping rather than volume.
Will Mastopexy Leave Scars?
One of the most common concerns is whether a breast lift leaves scars. It is important to be transparent: it is not possible to perform mastopexy without any scars, because the surgery requires incisions on the skin.
In some cases, the nipple (areola) may also need to be repositioned to a more ideal location. After the incisions, stitches are placed and a scar may remain, although it is usually positioned to be as discreet as possible.
Right after surgery, scars tend to appear red and more noticeable, but over time they fade significantly and can blend closer to the natural skin tone. For most patients, the improvement in breast position and body confidence outweighs scar-related concerns-especially when post-operative care instructions are followed carefully.
If breast sagging affects your confidence, causes difficulty choosing clothing, or makes you feel uncomfortable in your body, a breast lift can be a highly satisfying option. During the consultation, it will be clearly explained whether nipple repositioning is needed and what the incision pattern may look like.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Lift Surgery?
To undergo mastopexy, patients should not have a medical condition that would prevent safe surgery. However, pregnancy and breastfeeding are not suitable periods for this operation.
If breast sagging starts during breastfeeding, there is no need to panic. Once breastfeeding is fully completed, you can schedule a consultation and proceed with surgical planning without unnecessary delay.
If you are currently losing weight through diet and exercise, it may be best to reach your goal weight first. Weight loss often causes volume reduction in the breasts, and planning surgery after this stage usually leads to a more predictable and satisfying result.
Will Breasts Sag Again After Mastopexy?
Many patients ask whether breast lift results are permanent. While mastopexy provides long-lasting improvement, it is not realistic to guarantee that the breasts will never change again.
With time, aging and gravity can still cause mild sagging. However, mastopexy strengthens the breast structure, making it more resistant to gravitational effects. As a result, the lifted appearance is usually maintained longer than many patients expect.
If breast implants are used during the operation, sagging may be even less noticeable, since implants can provide more upper fullness and internal support. Mastopexy does not prevent pregnancy or breastfeeding in the future, but it is possible that pregnancy-related changes could cause slight sagging again.
Can Mastopexy Be Combined With Other Procedures?
In some cases, sagging is not the only concern. Patients may also feel that their breasts are too small or too large. Mastopexy can be safely combined with other procedures depending on your goals:
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Breast lift + breast augmentation: For patients who want a more lifted and fuller appearance, implants may be added in the same surgery.
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Breast lift + breast reduction: For those with large, heavy, sagging breasts, reduction and lift can be performed together for a lighter and more lifted shape.
Combining procedures can allow patients to achieve their desired outcome in a single session rather than undergoing multiple surgeries.
Can a Breast Lift Be Repeated?
Yes. Mastopexy is not limited to a single lifetime procedure. If breast sagging returns years later-especially in patients who have surgery at a younger age-a repeat breast lift may be possible, provided the tissue quality and general health are suitable.
Although it is not a surgery performed frequently, a second or even a third mastopexy can be considered in the future after proper clinical evaluation.
Mastopexy Procedure: How Is It Performed?
Mastopexy can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the case. During the surgery, the patient will not feel pain.
Key points about the procedure include:
- The duration varies from person to person
- Surgery typically takes 1.5-2 hours
- The nipple and areola may be repositioned if needed
- Excess and loose skin is removed to tighten the breast envelope
- The breast tissue is reshaped for firmer support
- If required, breast implants may be used for lasting internal support and volume
- Incisions are closed with stitches to complete the surgery
- In some cases, a one-night hospital stay may be recommended
Recovery After Mastopexy
Recovery is an essential part of achieving optimal results. After breast lift surgery, patients should rest at home for a period of time.
Important recovery notes:
- The final breast shape does not appear immediately
- It usually takes 1-2 months for the breasts to settle into their final form
- Wearing a supportive medical/sports bra may be advised
- Patients should avoid swimming pools, saunas, hammams, and the sea until fully healed
- Heavy physical activity and body-straining movements should be avoided temporarily
- Hygiene and wound care must be taken seriously
- Following the surgeon's instructions closely is crucial
- Mild pain may occur, which is normal
- Only painkillers prescribed by the physician should be used
What Are the Risks of Mastopexy?
Like any surgical procedure, mastopexy carries certain risks, such as:
- infection
- bleeding
- anesthesia-related complications
However, choosing an experienced physician and following medical advice significantly lowers these risks. Antibiotics may be prescribed after surgery to prevent infection, and recovery is usually smooth when post-operative guidance is followed carefully.
Breast Lift Surgery Near Istanbul
International patients often search for aesthetic procedures in Turkey using phrases such as "breast lift Turkey", "breast lift near Istanbul", or "mastopexy Istanbul area." Tekirdağ is a valuable alternative for those who want a clinic experience close to Istanbul, while benefiting from comfortable planning and personalized care.
If you would like to learn whether you are a candidate for mastopexy or if you want a personalized surgical plan, you can contact Op. Dr. Tuğba Dindar Clinic to arrange an appointment.
