Plastic Surgery

Breast Lift

Reshaping and raising breast tissue — position and skin, not volume, unless an implant is added on purpose.

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Procedure time
Usually 2–3 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Time in Istanbul
Typically 5–7 nights
Back to desk work
Often after 1–2 weeks
Overview

About Breast Lift

A breast lift (mastopexy) raises and reshapes breasts that have dropped, removes excess skin and can reposition the nipple. It does not add volume unless combined with an implant.

The scar pattern depends on how much lifting is needed: around the areola, a vertical line down to the fold, or an anchor shape along the fold.

Suitability

Who it may be suitable for

  • Breasts that have dropped after pregnancy, weight loss or with age
  • Nipples that sit at or below the breast fold
  • A stable weight
  • Good general health, a stable weight and no smoking, or willingness to stop

These are general points only. Whether an operation is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon after an in-person examination, your medical history and any tests they request.

The process

How it works

  1. Remote review

    You share photos and your medical history. The surgeon gives a first opinion on whether the operation is suitable and what it could realistically achieve.

  2. Consultation in Istanbul

    The surgeon examines you in person, confirms the plan, explains the risks and arranges pre-operative tests before you give consent.

  3. Surgery

    Under general anaesthesia, breast tissue is reshaped and raised, excess skin is removed and the nipple is repositioned.

  4. Check before you fly

    The surgeon reviews healing before you travel home, and you receive written aftercare instructions and remote follow-up.

Aftercare

What to expect and aftercare

  1. First days

    Tightness, swelling and soreness are common. You wear a supportive surgical bra and avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height.

  2. Weeks 1–2

    Stitches are checked or removed. Many people return to desk work, avoiding lifting and upper-body exercise.

  3. Weeks 4–6

    Exercise is gradually reintroduced with the surgeon’s approval. You continue to wear a supportive bra.

  4. Months 3–12

    The breasts settle into their final shape and scars mature. Results are usually assessed after several months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Good to know

Risks and considerations

  • Breasts continue to age and may drop again over time, especially after weight change or pregnancy.
  • Changes in nipple sensation and reduced ability to breastfeed are possible.
  • All surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.
  • Scars are permanent. Surgeons place them where they are easiest to hide, but how they mature varies from person to person.
  • Smoking and nicotine products significantly increase the risk of wound-healing problems. Most surgeons ask you to stop for several weeks before and after surgery.
  • Results take months to settle and cannot be guaranteed. Some people need a revision procedure.
FAQ

Common questions

Will a breast lift make my breasts bigger?

No. It changes position and shape. If you also want more volume, an implant can be added.

How long does a breast lift last?

Many years, but gravity, ageing and weight changes continue to affect the breasts.

How long should I stay in Istanbul after surgery?

It depends on the operation. Many are planned around one to two weeks so the surgeon can check you and remove stitches or drains before you fly. Flying soon after surgery raises the risk of blood clots, so your surgeon confirms when it is safe to travel.

How is the cost decided?

The price depends on the operation the surgeon recommends after examining you, the hospital stay and any combined procedures. You receive a written, itemised quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.

Related treatments
Next step

Talk to a coordinator about Breast Lift

Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.

This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.