Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts - at least, for a time. No surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity. If your breasts are small or have lost volume - for example, after pregnancy - breast implants inserted in conjunction with mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size.

Procedure:
Raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning remaining tissue and nipples.

Length of Surgery:
1 to 3 hours.

Anesthesia:
Local with sedation, or general.

In/Outpatient:
Usually outpatient.

Side Effects:
Temporary bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness, dry breast skin. Permanent scars.

Risks:
Wide scars; skin loss. Unevenly positioned nipples. Loss of feeling in nipples or breast. Recovery: Back to work: 1 week or more. Strenuous activities: 1 month. Fading of scars: several months to a year.

Duration of Results:
Variable; gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight changes may cause new sagging.

Detailed information on Mastopexy at The American Society of Plastic Surgeons web site.