Risks & Complications

Risks and complications of a breast lift

A mastopexy can help many women feel comfortable in their own bodies again. But what risks and complications should you be aware of before having a breast lift?

Important note

This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, can be a liberating way for many women to feel comfortable in their own bodies again. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with a breast lift that should not be overlooked.

In this article, we would like to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the procedure and risks involved in a breast lift. We explain which factors can increase the risk, what specific risks the procedure entails, and how good aftercare helps to optimise the healing process. This will not only enable you to prepare well for the procedure, but also ensure that you receive the best possible support during the recovery period.

Read on to find out all the key information you need to help you make a confident and well-informed decision for or against a breast lift.

A patient before and after a breast reduction

Why women choose to have a breast lift

A breast lift is more than just a cosmetic procedure. For many women, it can play an important role in boosting self-confidence and promoting a sense of well-being in their own bodies. But what are the main reasons that lead women to undergo this procedure, and what psychological and physical factors influence this decision?

An overview of the reasons for a breast lift

Sagging breasts caused by ageing, pregnancy or weight loss
Over the course of a woman’s life, various factors can cause the breasts to lose their shape and firmness. This can be due to the natural ageing process, pregnancy or significant weight loss. Breast lifts following pregnancy and breastfeeding – when many women are faced with a loss of elasticity and firmness in the breasts – and breast lifts in later life are becoming increasingly popular.

Boosting self-confidence and feeling comfortable in your own body
For many women, a breast lift means more than just a physical change. It is a step towards greater self-confidence and a more positive body image. The change can have a significant impact on quality of life by positively influencing self-image and restoring a sense of attractiveness and youthfulness.

Who is a breast lift suitable for?

The decision to have a breast lift is a very personal one and should be made on the basis of realistic expectations and a thorough medical assessment. Furthermore, a breast lift without surgery is often not as long-lasting as the surgical procedure – but not every woman is automatically a suitable candidate for the operation. So what criteria and health factors should be taken into account if you are considering a breast lift?

Suitability criteria for a breast lift

Legal age and completion of breast development: Women considering a breast lift should have finished developing and be of legal age, i.e. at least 18 years old. This ensures that the breasts will not change significantly any further and that the results of the procedure will remain stable.

Suitable for women with sagging breasts: The procedure is particularly suitable for women whose breasts have become saggy as a result of pregnancy, weight loss or the natural ageing process. The aim is to restore the shape and firmness of the breasts and to tailor their appearance to the patient’s own preferences.

Family planning completed: It is recommended that a breast lift should only be carried out once you have finished having children. Another pregnancy or breastfeeding after the lift could cause the breasts to sag again or affect your ability to breastfeed. The risk of further changes to the shape of the breasts should therefore be minimised as far as possible.

However, there are also a number of factors that may argue against a breast lift, or which require further discussion with your treating doctor:

Previous complications arising from breast implants or other surgical procedures: If you have previously experienced complications following breast surgery (e.g. breast implants), this could increase the risk of problems arising during a breast lift. These risks should be discussed thoroughly with a specialist before making a decision.

Existing medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may hinder recovery after surgery and increase the risk of infection or impaired wound healing. In such cases, the treating doctor must carefully assess the patient’s individual suitability for the procedure.

How does a breast lift work? Procedure and techniques

A detailed and comprehensive consultation is the first step towards a successful breast lift without complications. During a face-to-face preliminary consultation with the surgeon, your expectations, wishes and concerns will be discussed in detail. As a specialist, the surgeon will outline realistic outcomes and answer all relevant questions regarding the technique, procedure and risks, as well as explaining the aftercare required following a breast lift operation.

As well as discussing your aesthetic goals, it is also important to carry out examinations to assess your individual situation. This includes a thorough examination of your breasts, an assessment of your skin tissue and a detailed medical history to rule out any potential health risks.

Common techniques and methods used in breast lifts

To give you a better overview of the various breast lift techniques, we have summarised the most common methods:

Method	Initial condition of the breast / Scope of application	Incision technique / Procedure	Advantages
Benelli method („donut“ lift)	Suitable for mild to moderate sagging and all breast sizes	A ring-shaped incision around the areola	Less noticeable scarring
Anchor incision / Lejour or Strömbeck method (T-incision)	Suitable for more pronounced sagging and larger bust sizes	A ring-shaped incision around the areola, plus an additional incision from the areola to the inframammary fold (T- or L-shaped)	More fat, glandular and skin tissue can be removed
„The “inner bra’ method	Ideal for moderate to severe sagging of the skin	Excess skin is positioned like a belt around the lower part of the chest	The breasts are gently reshaped; this provides support and prevents the skin from sagging again too quickly; breast lift using the patient’s own fat
OrbiShape method („internal bra“ with implant)	Ideal for women with a large bust	Internal bra using a silicone film implant instead of the patient’s own tissue	The breast is gently contoured; this provides support for the breast and prevents the skin from sagging again too quickly
Hall–Findlay method	Different breast sizes / degrees of sagging	Anchor incision with C-shaped fixation of the nipple to the pectoral muscle	Removes excess skin; repositioning of the nipple to improve the shape

The breast lift procedure: duration and anaesthesia

A breast lift is usually carried out under general anaesthetic and takes around 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure and the method used. Following the operation, a hospital stay of 1 to 2 days is required to ensure that healing progresses well and that any complications are detected at an early stage. During this time, you will be closely monitored by the medical staff and will receive the necessary aftercare to support the healing process as effectively as possible.

Risks and complications associated with a breast lift

Now that we have gone through the procedure and techniques involved in a breast lift, it is equally important to take a look at the possible Risks and complications that may be associated with this procedure. As with any operation, there are potential challenges associated with a breast lift that should be taken into account in order to make an informed decision.

General surgical risks associated with a breast lift

Like any surgical procedure, a breast lift carries certain general risks. These risks can arise both during the operation and during the recovery period. It is important to be aware of these potential complications in advance so that you can be properly prepared and minimise the risk.

Risk	Description
Bleeding	Bleeding may occur during or after the operation, which may require further treatment.
Wound-healing disorders	In some cases, wound healing may be impaired, which can lead to open sores or prolonged healing times.
Infections	Despite sterile conditions, there is a risk of infection that may require treatment with antibiotics.
Swelling and bruising	These are common and form part of the healing process, but may last for a few weeks.
Thrombosis and pulmonary embolism	In rare cases, blood clots may form, increasing the risk of thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Smoking and conditions such as diabetes can also hinder recovery and increase the risk of complications. Check with your doctor in advance to find out whether you are at risk of any specific complications.

Specific complications associated with a breast lift

In addition to the general risks associated with any surgical procedure, there are also specific complications that can arise particularly with a breast lift. These often relate to the healing process and the final shape of the breasts, which is altered by the operation.

Risk	Description
Numbness and altered sensation in the nipples	The severing of nerves during the lift may result in numbness or reduced sensation in the nipples. In many cases, this improves over time.
Problems with breastfeeding	A breast lift may affect your ability to breastfeed in the future. In particular, more extensive procedures may disrupt the connection to the milk ducts.
Circulatory disorders	Poor blood circulation caused by surgery can prevent the tissue from healing properly, which may require further treatment or even a repeat operation.
Asymmetries and changes in breast shape	During the healing process, slight asymmetries or changes in the shape of the breast may occur. These can often be corrected with a minor follow-up procedure.
Scarring	Scars following a breast lift are an inevitable part of the operation; however, in some cases they may become more noticeable or wider than desired. Careful scar management can help to improve their appearance.
Problems with implants	If an implant was inserted during the lift, problems such as capsular contracture or the implant slipping out of place may occur.

Before undergoing a breast lift, it is important to be aware that not all risks can be avoided, but with thorough planning and aftercare, many of them can be minimised.
On our blog, you’ll also find information on the Risks associated with breast reduction surgery.

Aftercare and recovery period

Following a breast lift, careful aftercare is crucial for the healing process and for achieving the desired result. The first few weeks after the operation are particularly important for preventing complications and promoting healing.

Immediate post-operative care (the first few days after the operation)

Hospital stay: 1 to 2 days for observation and rest
Pain-relieving medicines: To reduce pain and discomfort
Wearing a support bra: For 6–8 weeks, to keep the breast in the correct position and support the tissue

Wound healing in the first few weeks following a breast lift

Pull the strings: Usually after 14–21 days, depending on the method and how the wound heals
Swelling and pain: These are normal during the first few weeks and will subside over time
Gentle care for scars: Take care with your skincare routine to minimise scarring and promote healing

Long-term aftercare following a breast lift (the first few months)

No sporting activities: For around 6–8 weeks, so as not to put unnecessary strain on the tissue
Continuing to wear the support bra: Wear regularly, especially during the first 3 months
Sleeping position and taking care of your body: Whilst you are recovering, you should preferably sleep on your back and avoid strenuous movements

Should any complications or concerns arise in the weeks and months following your procedure, please do not hesitate to contact your treating doctor. This is the only way to prevent healing problems and ensure they are treated promptly.

Breast lift: Costs and financing

A breast lift is a cosmetic procedure, the cost of which depends heavily on the method chosen and the extent of the treatment. The average cost of a breast lift starts at around 4,000 euros, but may vary depending on the technique, complexity and clinic. For example, a breast lift involving implants may incur higher costs. Furthermore, these are generally purely cosmetic procedures, which is why health insurance does not, in most cases, cover the costs of a breast lift.

For many women, this raises the question of how to pay for the treatment. Fortunately, many clinics offer flexible payment plans, allowing you to pay the costs in instalments. This enables you to spread the financial burden more evenly over a longer period.

Cover provided by insurance against consequential costs

As with any operation, unexpected costs may arise during a breast lift – whether due to complications, follow-up treatment or additional procedures. To ensure you are prepared for all eventualities, we recommend a Consequential Costs Insurance from 4beauty. This insurance ensures that you are not left to bear the financial burden in the event of any problems or unforeseen follow-up treatment costs.

Follow-up costs insurance covers expenses that go beyond the standard treatment costs, offering you an extra level of security. This means you can focus entirely on your recovery without having to worry about any unexpected expenses.

Please feel free to get in touch with us to find out more about this cover – we’re here to help you feel completely secure and well looked after. Click here for Contact.

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