How will the breasts feel after a 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.

What can I expect after a breast lift?

For the first 2 to 3 days after a 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 a 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.

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.