A breast lift (mastopexy) is a well-established operation, but like all surgery it carries risks. General risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots and anaesthetic effects; risks specific to a lift include scarring, changes in nipple sensation, wound healing problems where the incisions meet, asymmetry, reduced nipple blood supply and some recurrence of sagging over time.
General surgical risks
- Bleeding (haematoma): a collection of blood under the skin, usually within the first 24 hours, may need a return to theatre. Stopping blood-thinning supplements beforehand and careful surgical technique reduce the risk.
- Infection: wound infections are usually minor and treated with antibiotics. Good hygiene, sterile technique and keeping dressings dry lower the chance.
- Blood clots (VTE): deep vein thrombosis and clots on the lung are uncommon but serious. Moving early, compression stockings and, for some patients, injections to thin the blood reduce the risk.
- Anaesthetic risks: a breast lift is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Sickness and a sore throat are common and short-lived; serious reactions are rare.
Risks specific to a breast lift
- Scarring: scars go around the areola and often down the breast, sometimes along the fold. They are lasting but usually fade well, but some people form thick or stretched scars.
- Delayed wound healing: the point where the vertical and horizontal incisions meet under the breast is under the most tension and can be slow to heal.
- Nipple sensation: the nipple may become numb or more sensitive. This often improves over months but can be lasting.
- Nipple and areola blood supply: rarely, part or all of the nipple or areola can lose its blood supply. The risk is higher in smokers and with larger lifts.
- Asymmetry: the breasts are never perfectly identical, and small differences in shape, size or nipple position may remain.
- Recurrence: gravity, ageing, weight change and pregnancy mean the breasts will continue to change and some sagging can return.
- Breastfeeding: many people can still breastfeed after a lift, but this cannot be assured.
Additional risks with implants
If an implant is placed during the same operation (augmentation mastopexy), implant-related risks are added, including capsular contracture, rupture, malposition and the need for future implant surgery. Combining the two procedures is more complex, and in some cases Mr Nassab may suggest doing them in stages.
How risks are reduced
Careful patient selection is the starting point. Stopping smoking and all nicotine products at least six weeks before and after surgery is one of the most effective ways to protect wound healing and nipple blood supply. Being at a stable weight, controlling medical conditions and following advice about medicines all help. Surgery takes place in a CQC-registered hospital with a consultant anaesthetist. After surgery, wearing the supportive bra, avoiding heavy lifting and not raising the arms above shoulder height in the early weeks reduce strain on the wounds.
What is normal during recovery
Swelling, bruising, tightness and aching are expected, and the breasts may look high and square initially before settling into a softer shape over several months. Small areas of scab along the incision, mild itching as nerves recover and some numbness are common. A little oozing onto the dressing in the first days is not unusual. Scars are often red and raised for a few months before they fade.
When to call for help
- One breast rapidly swelling or becoming very painful: contact the surgical team urgently.
- Fever, spreading redness or pus from a wound: contact the team the same day.
- A nipple turning dark, blue or black: contact the team urgently.
- Sudden one-sided leg swelling or calf pain: same-day GP or NHS 111.
- Chest pain or breathlessness: call 999.
Putting the risks in context
Most patients recover without significant problems, but it is important to go into surgery fully informed. Mr Nassab will discuss your individual risk profile at consultation. A breast lift is from £11,500 and augmentation mastopexy from £12,500; the £150 consultation fee is separate. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common problem after a breast lift?
Minor wound healing delays, particularly where the incisions meet beneath the breast, are among the more common issues. They usually heal with simple dressings.
Is nipple sensation lost after a lift?
Sensation often changes temporarily. Lasting numbness is possible but less common.
Does smoking really matter?
Yes. Smoking and nicotine significantly increase the risk of wound breakdown and loss of nipple blood supply.
Will the breasts sag again?
A lift aims for a long-lasting improvement, but breasts continue to age and may drop gradually, especially after weight change or pregnancy.
