Breast Lift Recovery - What to expect after breast lift

After a breast lift surgery procedure, the breasts will be supported in the bra; they will be swollen, firm and lumpy in the first few postoperative weeks.

The breasts start to soften after around 6 weeks, and by 3 months the swelling should have gone down, leaving you with your new shape.

Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift helps to lift sagging or low-hanging breasts for a more youthful appearance.

What can I expect after a breast lift?

For the first 2 to 3 days after surgery, you will likely experience light to moderate pain, although this can be managed through prescription medication. Many individuals may experience some nausea from the anaesthesia used during the procedure, although this typically subsides relatively quickly and without intervention.

1 week following the surgery pain levels will be significantly less, although moderate bruising and swelling of the breasts may continue to persist. At this point, many individuals are able to return to work and perform light daily activities such as walking.

2 weeks after the surgery most patients will feel normal and able to perform all daily activities, although lifting heavy objects and bending should be avoided. At the 2 week mark, most incisions will have likely healed.

After 4 to 6 weeks most individuals will be okay to complete daily exercises once again as full recovery is made.

How should I treat my breasts following a breast lift?

Massage/moisturize – Treat the whole breast, including scar. Use the palm of your hand in a gentle circular motion, using a moisturising cream for dry skin, e.g. E45. This helps to soften your skin, adjacent tissue, and adjust to its new contour. Experience how your breasts feel before letting anyone else touch them.
After the first 2 weeks, start returning to your normal activities of living. Be sensitive to your body and try not to do too much too soon. Therefore, if you experience any pain, stop and try again another day. You can drive and start lifting light objects if you feel comfortable. Gym activities, aerobics or sports that involve using your arms should be avoided for 6 weeks. You may start lower leg exercise after 4 weeks. You can start lifting your elbows above your shoulders, washing your hair, getting the washing off the line, etc.

Do the breasts get smaller after a breast lift?

Your breasts will not get smaller after a breast lift, a breast lift is designed to provide the breasts with a more youthful and toned appearance by removing excess skin, tissue and fat. During a breast lift, breast tissue is repositioned, decreasing the volume in the lower region whilst increasing breast volume in the upper region.

Does a breast lift affect sensation?

A breast lift can reduce nipple sensitivity, but only in rare cases is this nipple sensitivity extreme. The sensitivity is mostly temporary and your breasts will gradually regain their natural sensation again over time. The incisions from a breast lift can carry the risk of change in nipple sensitivity as the incisions have the tendency to harm or damage the nerves.

Changes in sensitivity are only a temporary side effect of the surgery and the majority of patients regain their natural nipple sensitivity again over a period of around 6 months after the breast lift procedure. It’s important to note that extremely large implants can also cause a change in nipple sensation which may not necessarily result from the incisions.

Words from our clients:

"I was extremely satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the Cadogan Clinic. My surgeon was friendly and informative and explained the procedure fully. My procedure went very well and with the excellent care of the nursing staff, I made a speedy and full recovery. Would recommend to anyone."

Eva Berry

"At the beginning before the operation the nurse taking care of me made me feel so comfortable. The surgeon and anesthetist helped me feel so calm. Fantastic before and after treatment"

Scarlett Elliott

"The girls on the reception at the clinic were very pleasant and professional. The nurse who took out my stitches after my surgery was just lovely and took me through step by step what she was doing and she also recommended a great cream to use to help with healing."

Georgina Nolan

“I was treated with care and provided with thorough knowledge about the procedure I was undertaking. My surgeon was very methodical (a perfectionist) and I felt I received A class treatment."

Courtney O'Sullivan

"Outstanding experience from the first appointment to being discharged. Very professional, friendly and a fantastic outcome."

Gemma Stevenson

"Reception staff very welcoming and efficient. Both nurses who I dealt with were fantastic, and the whole team (anaesthetist, surgeon etc) were friendly but professional, and really put my mind at ease. That I was able to stay later than I perhaps needed after my surgery to fit in with my husbands schedule was greatly appreciated."

Emma Davies

How long does it take to recover from a breast lift?

Within 6 weeks of the surgery, you will have fully recovered, although it’s important to rest for at least the first 4 weeks, avoiding any intense exercise or heavy lifting. Most individuals are able to return to work after the first week and see improvements from there.

Where to go for a breast lift

At the Cadogan Clinic, we offer comprehensive advice to individuals with regards to breast lifts and the recovery process. For more information, reach out to us via the contact form on our website where a specialist will be able to get back to you. Aftercare is also on offer to all our patients through a 24/7 on-demand nursing service.

Treatments mentioned in this article

A breast lift helps to lift sagging or low-hanging breasts for a more youthful appearance.

View Treatment

Breast Surgery

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift helps to lift sagging or low-hanging breasts for a more youthful appearance.

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