Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure designed to lift breasts that have sagged over time. This can be due to age, gravity, or pregnancies. This is known as breast "ptosis."

 

Most often, when the breast sags, the nipple position has also sagged, and is too low on the breast. In extreme cases, the nipple may actually be pointing downward. To achieve a more youthful shape and appearance, the skin must be tightened in order to recreate a rounder contour, and the nipple must be lifted to a higher location.

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Women who choose to undergo breast lift surgery are usually happy with their overall breast size, but are unhappy with their sagging appearance. Breast lift surgery recreates a more youthful contour by raising and firming the breasts. By removing excess skin, the breast tissue is tightened. In addition to lifting the breast, a mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola (colored part surrounding the nipple) which may become larger over time.

 

On its own, the breast lift procedure does not increase the size of the breasts. Women who desire both fuller and larger breasts with their lift, should also consider undergoing a simultaneous breast augmentation.