Breast Lift
Breast Lift in Singapore
As women age, go through pregnancy, experience weight fluctuations, or breastfeed, the skin and ligaments that support the breasts often lose their elasticity. As a result, some women seek ways to restore the youthful shape and firmness of their breasts. A breast lift—also known as mastopexy—is a highly effective surgical solution that repositions and reshapes the breasts for a perkier and more youthful contour.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Colin Tham
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful height. The goal is to rejuvenate the breast profile without necessarily adding volume, although implants can be added in combination for those desiring both lift and fullness.
During a breast lift, the plastic surgeon may also reduce the size of enlarged areolas and restore symmetry between the breasts. The result is a firmer, more lifted appearance that aligns with the patient's natural body contour. A breast lift does not significantly change the overall size of the breasts, but it can improve shape and positioning dramatically.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for a Breast Lift?
The best candidates for a breast lift are women who are generally healthy, do not smoke, and are concerned about sagging or drooping breasts. You may be a suitable candidate if:
- Your breasts have lost shape or volume over time
- Your nipples point downward or fall below the breast crease
- Your areolas are enlarged or stretched
- Your breasts appear flat, elongated, or deflated
- One breast is lower than the other
Ideal candidates should also have realistic expectations and be close to their goal weight.
While the procedure can be performed at any age, it's best done once breast development is complete and future pregnancies or breastfeeding are not planned, as these can affect the results.
However, many women choose to undergo a breast lift as part of a mummy makeover after completing their families.
How Is a Breast Lift Performed?
A breast lift is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the technique and extent of correction. There are several incision patterns used, and the choice depends on your breast size, shape, degree of sagging, and surgical goals.
The most common breast lift techniques include:
Crescent Lift
Involves a small incision along the upper half of the areola and is suitable for women with minimal sagging.Peri-Areolar or Donut Lift
Involves a circular incision around the areola and is ideal for mild to moderate ptosis..Vertical or Lollipop Lift
Combines a circular incision around the areola with a vertical incision down to the breast crease. This is suitable for moderate sagging and allows for more shaping.Anchor or Inverted-T Lift
Includes the lollipop incisions plus a horizontal incision along the breast fold. This is used for significant sagging or larger breasts.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue, and repositions the nipple and areola to a higher, more youthful location. If needed, the size of the areola can also be reduced. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings or surgical tape is applied.
What to Expect Before, During and After a Breast Lift
Before Surgery
You will have an in-depth consultation where the surgeon evaluates your breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and overall health. Here, you will discuss your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have. Pre-operative photos may be taken, and your surgeon will explain the surgical plan, risks, and expected outcomes.
Before surgery, you may be asked to:
- Stop smoking several weeks prior to the procedure
- Avoid certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist during the first 24–48 hours post-surgery
During Surgery
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon lifts and reshapes the underlying breast tissue, repositions the nipple and areola, and removes excess skin. If breast implants are also desired, they may be placed at this stage. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and a surgical bra or compression garment is applied to support the breasts during recovery.
After Surgery and Recovery
Recovery from a breast lift typically involves mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days to a week. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within 7 to 10 days. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications.
You will need to wear a supportive surgical bra round the clock for several weeks to minimize swelling and support the healing tissues. It's important to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous activity, and sleeping on your stomach for 4 to 6 weeks.
Swelling and changes in sensation are common and gradually resolve over time. Final results become more apparent over the course of several months as your breasts settle into their new shape. Scars will initially appear red or raised but will fade significantly with time and proper scar care.
What Are Possible Risks & Complications of Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, but like all surgeries, it comes with potential risks.
Scarring
Visible scars are inevitable, though they usually fade over time. Some patients may develop thicker or raised scars.Changes in Sensation
Temporary numbness or altered nipple sensation is common. Permanent changes are rare but possible.Asymmetry
Minor differences in breast shape or nipple position may occur after healing.Poor Wound Healing
Some patients may experience slow healing or minor wound issues, especially smokers or those with certain health conditions.Infection and Bleedings
These are rare but possible; antibiotics and proper post-op care help minimize the risk.
Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail and guide you on how to minimise them through proper preparation and recovery care.
What's the Difference Between Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation?
While both breast lift and breast augmentation enhance the appearance of the breasts, they serve different purposes.
A breast lift focuses on repositioning sagging breasts, tightening the skin, and elevating the nipple to a more youthful level. It reshapes the existing tissue to create a perkier, firmer look without adding volume. It is ideal for women who are happy with their breast size but unhappy with drooping or flattening.
In contrast, breast augmentation involves inserting implants to increase breast size and volume. It is suitable for women who want larger or fuller breasts but do not necessarily have sagging.
In some cases, the best results come from combining both procedures—lifting the breasts while adding volume through implants. Your surgeon will help determine the best approach based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast Lift Surgeon in Singapore
Dr Colin Tham
Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
Dr Colin Tham is an experienced plastic surgeon skilled in performing double eyelid surgeries. He is accredited by the Ministry of Health in Singapore and has over 20 years of experience in the field. Dr Tham received extensive plastic surgery training in Scotland, Taiwan, and Singapore; and is committed to providing beautiful and natural-looking outcomes for all his patients.