Breast Surgery
Mastopexy (Breast Lift) in Portugal
Surgical correction of breast sagging in Lisbon for UK patients, restoring shape, position and firmness, with or without implants, and post-operative support in Oxford.
For women whose breasts have lost elasticity due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes or the natural ageing process.
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What is Mastopexy?
Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, is a procedure that corrects breast ptosis, the medical term for sagging, by removing excess skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful, natural position on the chest. The result is a firmer, better-supported breast contour without necessarily changing volume.
Breasts can lose their shape and position for a number of reasons: pregnancy and breastfeeding, significant weight loss, the natural effects of gravity over time, or simply genetics. In many cases, the underlying breast tissue remains adequate in volume, but the envelope of skin has stretched beyond its natural elasticity, leaving the breasts lower and less defined than they once were.
Mastopexy can be performed without implants, for women who are happy with their volume but want to restore position and firmness. It can also be combined with implants when lifting alone would not achieve the desired fullness, particularly in the upper pole of the breast.
Is this right for you?
- Your breasts have lost their shape following pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- The nipples point downward or sit below the breast fold
- Your breasts feel soft or flat, particularly in the upper pole
- You are content with your volume but want improved position and firmness
- You want a natural-looking result without increasing size
Surgical Approach
With or Without Implants
Mastopexy Without Implants
Corrects sagging and repositions the breast using only the existing tissue. Suitable for patients whose volume is adequate and who are primarily seeking improved shape, firmness and position. A more contained procedure with a straightforward recovery.
Mastopexy With Implants
Combines lifting with volume enhancement through the placement of a breast implant. Appropriate when the patient also wants to restore or increase upper-pole fullness alongside the lift. Your surgeon will advise on the most suitable implant type and placement.
Combined Procedures
Mastopexy is frequently performed as part of a broader procedure, particularly within a Mommy Makeover, which may include tummy tuck and liposuction. This approach allows multiple areas to be addressed in a single surgical session and recovery period.
Recovery & Aftercare
What to Expect
First Week
Some discomfort, swelling and tightness is expected in the first three to four days. A surgical bra is worn from day one and should be worn continuously for eight weeks. Rest is recommended, and driving should be avoided for the first week.
Weeks 2–4
Sutures are removed at the end of the second week. Swelling continues to settle and the breasts begin to take on their final shape. Most patients can return to desk work and light daily activities within two weeks. Flying home is usually possible at around three weeks.
Long-Term
Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for two months. Scars continue to mature over 12–18 months. High-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+) is recommended on scars for two years. Results are long-lasting, though natural ageing continues over time.
For UK Patients
Planning Mastopexy in Lisbon
Mastopexy is a common choice for UK patients travelling to Lisbon, as the combination of experienced specialist surgeons, well-equipped facilities and a lower cost of treatment makes Portugal an attractive destination for this procedure.
We recommend planning a stay of approximately five to seven days in Lisbon following surgery before flying home. This allows time for the first post-operative review and ensures you are comfortable and stable before travelling. Your sutures will be removed at two weeks, this appointment can be managed with our nursing team in Oxford.
Pre-operative assessment is completed before you travel, and all post-operative follow-up from week two onwards is managed by our NMC-registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Oxford, so that ongoing care does not require repeated trips to Portugal.
Mastopexy
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
Your breasts have sagged following pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss or ageing
The nipple and areola sit below the breast fold, or point downward
You are not planning further pregnancies in the near future, pregnancy may alter the results
You are at or close to your stable weight, significant weight changes after surgery can affect the outcome
You are a non-smoker, or prepared to stop smoking for the period recommended by your surgeon
You have realistic expectations about the procedure, including the nature of scarring involved
Suitability is assessed individually at consultation. Patients planning future pregnancies are generally advised to delay mastopexy, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly alter the surgical outcome. Your surgeon will discuss the timing and implications in full.
Your Journey
Consultation Process for UK Patients
Initial Consultation
Your first consultation can be conducted via video call or in person at our Lisbon clinic. We will discuss the degree of sagging, your volume goals, the most appropriate surgical technique, and whether combining mastopexy with implants is worth considering.
Pre-operative Assessment
Blood tests and medical clearance are completed before you travel to Lisbon. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions covering medications, smoking cessation, nutrition and what to bring for your stay.
Surgery in Lisbon
Mastopexy is performed at our fully certified surgical facility in Lisbon under general anaesthesia. The procedure typically takes two to three hours. No overnight stay is required, most patients are discharged on the day of surgery.
Recovery in Lisbon
We recommend staying in Lisbon for five to seven days following surgery for your initial post-operative review. You will leave in a surgical bra with clear wound care instructions for the journey home.
Follow-up in Oxford
Suture removal at two weeks and all subsequent follow-up appointments are managed by our NMC-registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Oxford. You will not need to return to Portugal for ongoing care.
Important Information
Risks and Considerations
Mastopexy is a well-established procedure, but as with all surgery, risks exist. Your surgeon will discuss these fully at consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.
- Scarring: scars are permanent, though they typically fade significantly over 12–18 months
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the nipple or areola
- Minor asymmetry: small differences in shape or position between the two sides
- Changes to breastfeeding ability: glandular continuity is preserved where possible, but cannot be guaranteed
- Swelling and bruising: expected and resolves over several weeks
- Infection or haematoma: uncommon, managed with appropriate care
- Changes over time: pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight fluctuation after surgery may alter the result
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mastopexy be combined with implants?
Yes. When lifting alone would not achieve the desired fullness, particularly in the upper pole of the breast, a breast implant can be placed at the same time. Your surgeon will advise on whether this combination is appropriate for your anatomy and goals, and on the most suitable implant type and size.
Will I still be able to breastfeed after mastopexy?
In most cases, yes. The procedure is planned to preserve glandular continuity wherever possible. However, breastfeeding ability cannot be guaranteed in every case, and this is something to discuss in detail with your surgeon. Patients who plan to breastfeed in future are generally advised to consider delaying surgery.
How visible are the scars?
The extent and position of scarring depends on the degree of sagging and the technique used. Scars typically run around the areola, vertically down from the areola, and along the breast fold. They are pink and raised initially, but soften and fade considerably over 12–18 months. Protecting them from sun exposure with SPF 50+ for two years aids the healing process.
What if I plan to have children in the future?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding after mastopexy can alter the result, the breasts may sag again following another pregnancy, potentially requiring a further procedure. Most surgeons advise patients who plan future pregnancies to delay mastopexy until their family is complete.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting, but natural ageing continues. Maintaining a stable weight and wearing well-supporting bras can help preserve the outcome over time. Significant weight fluctuation or pregnancy after surgery may cause changes that require further treatment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book a consultation with our specialist plastic surgery team in Lisbon, with pre and post-operative support available in Oxford.