Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
What does a breast lift involve?
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a highly effective surgery used to reposition the breasts to their proper location and correct sagging in this area. This sagging can result from natural aging, breastfeeding, weight loss, or other factors.
Mastopexy is a common surgical procedure in the field of plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine in Colombia. Although it is a breast lift that does not involve implants, in some cases it is combined with breast augmentation (placement of breast implants) to achieve more harmonious and satisfying results, depending on the patient’s preferences. This decision is made during the initial consultation with the plastic surgeon.

Procedure
In this surgical procedure, inverted T-shaped incisions are made on the breast. These incisions allow for the removal of excess skin, if necessary, and reshaping of the mammary glands to lift the bust and reposition it. The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, meaning there is no need for stitch removal in the future. If breast sagging is due to excess volume, a partial breast reduction may be necessary.

Advantages of Mastopexy:
- Short Downtime: Most patients experience only five days of downtime after the procedure. This allows you to return to your normal activities more quickly, minimizing disruptions to your daily life.
- Short Surgical Time: Mastopexy surgery with Dr. Ernesto Andrade has a relatively short surgical time, typically around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This not only reduces the time spent in the operating room but also contributes to greater safety during the procedure.
- Natural and Aesthetically Pleasing Results: Dr. Ernesto Andrade's mastopexy technique focuses on achieving results that look and feel natural. This means that after the procedure, your breasts will have a harmonious and proportionate appearance, significantly improving their aesthetics.
- Comfortable Recovery Without Drains: One of the most notable advantages is that no drains are required after surgery. This greatly contributes to a more comfortable recovery for the patient, as there are no additional devices to manage.
- Absorbable Sutures: The sutures used in mastopexy are absorbable, meaning there is no need for stitch removal in the future. This adds comfort and convenience to the recovery process, eliminating the need for an additional visit to remove sutures.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Both terms refer to the same surgery that corrects breast ptosis (sagging breasts). Breast lift, mastopexy, breast repositioning, and bust or chest lift are other names used to describe this procedure.
During mastopexy recovery, you will need to take five days off. Additionally, you will wear a micropore bandage for seven to ten days, allowing you to shower. After the downtime period, you will wear a postoperative bra for one month. Before and after surgery, you will receive detailed instructions and recommendations for postoperative care. Remember, it is important to consult with your plastic surgeon or their team if you experience pain, redness, noticeable swelling in one or both breasts, hardening, or other unexpected symptoms. Postoperative care is crucial for achieving the best results.
You can carry out your pregnancy normally after a breast lift, and you will even be able to breastfeed, as the mammary gland retains its functionality. However, it is important to note that breastfeeding and pregnancy can affect the shape of the breasts. In some cases, a touch-up may be required to maintain the results of your surgery in optimal condition.
In the first few weeks after surgery, you may feel reduced sensitivity in the breasts, but this is temporary. Over time, breast sensitivity will recover on its own. In some cases, breast sensitivity may vary as a result of mastopexy, either increasing or decreasing slightly.
There are different techniques for breast lift surgery. With the technique used by Dr. Ernesto Andrade, the scar will appear as an inverted T below the areola. With proper care, the appearance of the scars will improve significantly, becoming barely noticeable. At our clinic, we recommend the use of Neoskin® scar cream, and in some cases, we may additionally suggest laser treatment to enhance the results.