# Breast Lift (Mastopexy) > As we age the elasticity of our skin decreases, which can result in some obvious changes for women with large breasts. A **breast lift** allows women to achieve contours by elevating sagging breasts. - Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/breast-lift - Category: [Breast Augmentation](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/breast-augmentation) - Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md - Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer ## Overview As we age, skin elasticity changes, and breast position may also change after pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or breastfeeding. A **breast lift** consultation considers anatomy, expectations, scar placement, and recovery. ## The procedure A **breast lift** allows women to achieve contours by elevating sagging breasts and giving them a perkier, more youthful projection. Many women choose to have a breast lift along with a **breast augmentation** to achieve a fully youthful look. ## Candidate information - **Description:** The ideal candidate would be in generally good health and have realistic expectations of the outcome. A **breast lift** may be considered when breast position, skin laxity, or shape are a concern. An ideal candidate should: ### Criteria - Be over the age of 18 years. - Have saggy, drooping breasts - Be in general good health, mentally and physically - Not be pregnant or breastfeeding - Not planning on falling pregnant - Be at a stable, good weight ## Preparation - **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery ### Medical tests - **Complete blood count (CBC)** - **ECG if over 40 years old** - **Chest X-ray if indicated** - **COVID-19 test if required** ### Medications #### Medications to discuss stopping - **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior - **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior #### Medications to continue - **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky** - **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation ### Lifestyle - **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications - **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery - **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**) ### Arrangements - **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive - **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours** - **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials - **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies - **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure) - **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery ## Recovery and aftercare The recovery period varies for each patient. During your first few weeks, you should also avoid bending, and lifting anything; vigorous exercise is completely off-limits within the first **3 to 4 weeks**. If dissolvable stitches were not used, regular stitches are removed in various stages. To minimize swelling, a compression garment is worn post surgery. Drainage tubes are placed and will remove excess fluid during the first few days. The total healing time can be anything from **7 weeks to 10 weeks** dependant on the type of surgery performed. ## Expected results Most patients see **immediate improvement** in breast position, with final results becoming apparent as swelling subsides over **3-6 months**. ## Techniques - **Standard Lift** – Standard anchor shape incisions are used in this technique. This technique leaves permanent scarring. - **Doughnut Mastopexy** – This technique requires one incision and has less scarring and downtime than the other options. This technique is used when a small amount of tissue and skin are removed. - **Lollipop Lift** – This lift is a combination of both techniques. - **Breast Lift with Augmentation (Implants)** – Your surgeon will carefully help you choose your implant type, which will be placed during the augmentation part of your breast lift. ## Frequently asked questions ### Will a breast lift reduce the size of my breasts? A breast lift primarily changes the position and shape of the breasts, not their size. However, some women may perceive their breasts as slightly smaller after a lift due to the more compact, lifted shape. ### Will I have visible scars after a breast lift? Yes, breast lift surgery does result in scars. The extent depends on the surgical technique used. Scars typically fade and flatten over time but will not completely disappear. ### Can I breastfeed after a breast lift? Many women can breastfeed after a breast lift, but it depends on the specific technique used and individual factors. Discuss this with your surgeon if you plan to breastfeed in the future. ### What are the different types of breast lift techniques? Common techniques include the **anchor lift**, **lollipop lift**, and **doughnut mastopexy**. The choice depends on the degree of sagging and desired results. ### Can I combine breast lift with breast augmentation? Yes, many patients combine breast lift with implants to achieve both lifted position and increased volume for optimal breast enhancement. ### How long do breast lift results last? Breast lift results are long-lasting, typically **10-15 years**, though aging, gravity, and lifestyle factors will continue to affect breast shape over time. ### How much does breast lift cost in Cape Town? Pricing varies based on individual needs and the surgical technique required. A consultation is required to assess your specific requirements and provide accurate pricing. Please book a consultation or **Contact for Pricing** at gideonmaresky@gmail.com for personalized pricing information. ### When can I return to exercise after breast lift? Light activities can resume after **1-2 weeks**, but vigorous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for **6-8 weeks** to ensure proper healing. ## Indicative pricing - Estimate: R90,000 to R130,000 ZAR - Cost factor: Degree of ptosis - Cost factor: Incision type - Cost factor: Combined with augmentation - Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/breast-lift - Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation. ## Consultation and contact - Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation - Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact