Mastopexy (Breast Lifting)

Breast mastopexy, commonly known as breast lifting, is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts. Over time, factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and gravity contribute to the loss of breast firmness and shape. Mastopexy aims to restore a youthful, uplifted appearance by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areolar complex.

VARIABLE APPROACH

“Circumareolar” to “Anchor” Resection

It is true that small surgeries cannot achieve great results. The greater the amount of skin removed, the greater the lifting, but instead, the recovery period is longer, big scars and the incidence of complications increases. It is important to discuss the lifting method thoroughly with the patient.

  • Periareolar Mastopexy (Circumareolar, Donut, or Benelli Mastopexy): Involves skin tightening, contouring, and elevation of the nipple-areola complex. A “donut” of skin is removed from around the areola, converting a larger areola to a smaller one. This technique is suitable for minimal breast sagging.
  • Lollipop Mastopexy: A breast lift approach where the incision encircles the areola and extends down to the crease at the lower part of the breast, resembling a lollipop shape.
  • Inverted-T or Anchor Mastopexy: The most common technique, involving circumareolar and vertical incisions extending to the lower breast crease. This allows for optimal breast positioning, resulting in a more natural shape. However, the recovery period is about two weeks, and frequent wound healing processes are required.
  • Liposuction and Mastectomy: In cases where the mammary gland or fat is too large, liposuction and mastectomy may be required. When this occurs, beyond mastopexy, it may be considered “Breast Reduction” surgery.

Areolar Reduction

₩ 2,200,000 won (KRW)

$1,500

Lollipop Mastopexy

₩ 4,400,000 won (KRW)

$3,100

Anchor Resection

₩ 6,600,000 won (KRW)

$4,700

Breast Reduction

₩ 7,700,000 won (KRW)

$5,500

Recovery Process by Procedure Type

  • First Few Days: Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
  • First Week: Compression garments are recommended to minimize swelling and support healing.
  • 2-3 Weeks Post-Surgery: Light activities can be resumed, but strenuous exercise should be avoided.
  • 4-6 Weeks: Most of the swelling subsides, and patients can gradually return to normal activities.
  • Scarring: While incisions will initially appear red, they will fade over time with proper care.

The Role of Implants in Mastopexy

In some cases, mastopexy alone may not provide the desired breast volume. Patients who desire fuller breasts may opt for breast implants (augmentation mastopexy). This combination procedure enhances both the position and volume of the breasts, providing a more comprehensive aesthetic result. However, implant placement should be carefully discussed with the surgeon to determine the best approach based on individual anatomy and goals.

  • Improves shaping.
  • two-stage : After Reduction, 4 months later
  • Add ₩5,500,000 ($3,900)

Nipple and Areola Reduction

In addition to lifting the breasts, some patients choose to undergo nipple or areola reduction to achieve better proportion and symmetry. These procedures can be performed simultaneously with mastopexy to refine the overall aesthetic outcome.

  • Nipple Reduction: Involves decreasing the height or diameter of the nipple.
  • Areola Reduction: Focuses on reducing the size of the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple to create a more balanced look.
  • Nipple plasty : ₩2,200,000 ($1,500)
  • Areola reductrion : ₩2,200,000 ($1,500)
  • Inverted nipple correction : ₩1,650,000 ($1,100)

Dr. Francis Jeon’s Perspective on Breast Lifting

“Of course, the more skin we remove, the greater the lifting effect. However, this also results in more noticeable scars. This is a double-edged sword, and it is crucial for patients to fully understand their expectations and outcomes before selecting a surgical method.”

MD. Francis Jeon

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) – Frequently Asked Questions

What is a breast lift (mastopexy)?

A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to raise sagging breasts and improve their shape and position.
Excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple–areola complex is repositioned to a more youthful and natural location.

A breast lift may be appropriate if:

  • Your breasts have sagged due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight changes
  • The nipples point downward or sit below the breast crease
  • You want to restore breast shape and firmness rather than increase size

Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations.

At Evita Clinic, breast lift surgery is performed without general anesthesia.
Instead, the procedure is carried out under tumescent local anesthesia combined with sedation (sleep anesthesia).

This approach minimizes the risks associated with general anesthesia while allowing the surgery to be performed comfortably and safely.
The surgical technique and incision pattern are selected based on the degree of breast sagging.

A breast lift primarily improves shape and position, not breast size.
However, because excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped, some patients may feel that their breasts appear slightly smaller.

For this reason, breast implant augmentation is commonly combined with a breast lift when additional volume or upper pole fullness is desired.

Most patients can return to light daily activities within 3–4 days after surgery.
Swelling and bruising gradually subside, and final results typically stabilize after approximately 4 months.

Strenuous exercise and activities that place pressure on the chest should be avoided for a designated period as advised by your surgeon.

For international patients traveling to Korea for a breast lift:

  • A minimum stay of 2 weeks is recommended
  • For optimal recovery and postoperative monitoring, a stay of 3 weeks or longer is ideal

This allows sufficient time for follow-up care and safe healing before returning home.

Scarring is one of the most important considerations in breast lift surgery, and the extent of scarring depends on the surgical method used.

  • Donut Lift (Periareolar Lift)
    Scars are limited to the edge of the areola.
    This method provides approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) of lift and is suitable for mild sagging.
  • Lollipop Lift (Vertical Lift)
    Scars appear around the areola and extend vertically downward.
    This technique allows for about 2 inches (5 cm) of lift and is used for moderate sagging.
  • Anchor Lift (Inverted-T Lift)
    Scars are present around the areola, vertically, and along the breast crease.
    This is the most commonly performed technique, offering the greatest lifting effect and allowing precise repositioning of the nipple to the desired location.

Over time, scars typically fade and are positioned to be concealed by underwear or clothing.

Evita Clinic offers breast lift surgery under a fixed-price, all-inclusive package system.

The package includes:

  • Anesthesia
  • Surgery
  • Postoperative treatment
  • Follow-up care and aftercare management

There are no hidden or additional costs, and the final price is clearly explained during consultation.
Pricing may vary depending on the surgical method and individual condition.

After a breast lift, postoperative swelling and skin tension are critical factors.
The most common issue is delayed wound healing in areas where tension is greatest.

To minimize risks, the following are essential:

  • Strict smoking cessation
    Smoking significantly impairs blood circulation and increases the risk of poor wound healing and complications.
  • Activity restriction for approximately 2 weeks
    Strong compression or excessive movement can increase tension on incisions and negatively affect healing.

As with any surgery, risks such as infection, bleeding, sensory changes, asymmetry, or scarring may occur.
Careful surgical planning and strict adherence to postoperative care instructions are key to achieving safe and optimal results.

Private English Consultation

Discuss your surgery options, recovery timeline, pricing, and travel planning with our team.

Our English coordinator will personally assist you. Replies are provided during Korea business hours (KST).