Why breasts lose their shape
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, gravity and ageing stretch the skin and the supporting ligaments of the breast. The breast tissue moves downwards, the nipple comes to lie at or below the breast fold, and the upper breast becomes empty.
- Low nipple
- Empty upper breast
- Nipple raised, shape restored
How sagging is graded
- Grade I (mild) — the nipple lies at the level of the breast fold.
- Grade II (moderate) — the nipple lies below the fold but above the lowest part of the breast.
- Grade III (severe) — the nipple points downwards at the lowest part of the breast.
The grade, together with the quality of the skin, determines the incision pattern.
Incision patterns
For mild sagging, a periareolar lift around the areola may be enough. Moderate sagging is often corrected with a vertical (lollipop) pattern, and severe sagging with an inverted-T (anchor) pattern that also uses the breast fold. Shorter scars are always preferred when they can produce a lasting result.
Lift combined with an implant
When the breast has also lost volume, an implant can be placed in the same operation (augmentation-mastopexy). This restores fullness in the upper breast that a lift alone cannot create. In some patients a two-stage approach is safer.
- Implant
- Chest muscle
- Breast tissue
- Muscle cover
Recovery
A breast lift takes about two to three hours and usually involves one night in hospital. A supportive bra is worn for six weeks. Scars are red at first and fade gradually over twelve to eighteen months.
- 01PatternsPeriareolar · Vertical · Anchor
- 02With implantPossible in one stage
- 03Hospital stay1 night
- 04Stay in IstanbulAbout 7 days
Breast lift in Istanbul, Turkey
A breast lift, with or without an implant, is usually planned as a single visit of about one week. Stitches and wounds are checked before you fly home, and follow-up continues remotely.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a breast lift cost in Turkey?
The cost depends on the incision pattern, whether an implant is added and the hospital stay. A personal quote follows the review of your photographs.
Do I need a breast lift or a breast augmentation?
If the main problem is sagging and the nipple lies at or below the breast fold, a lift is needed. If the breasts are firm but small, augmentation alone may be enough. Many women benefit from both.
How long does a breast lift last?
The result is long-lasting, but the breasts continue to age and can change with pregnancy or weight changes. A stable weight helps preserve the result.
Should I wait until I have finished having children?
If further pregnancies are planned, it is often better to wait, because pregnancy and breastfeeding can stretch the breast again.
Will a breast lift make my breasts smaller?
A lift removes skin, not volume, so cup size usually stays similar or changes slightly. If you want smaller breasts, a reduction is planned instead.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Fatih Kılıç, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon. This page is for general information and does not replace an individual consultation.