Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

What is a breast lift?

One Breast lift – medical Mastopexy – is a surgical procedure to lift sagging breasts. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned to a more youthful position.

The result: a firm, shapely bust with harmonious proportions—without looking artificial, but rather natural and suited to you.

A lift requires that enough of the patient’s own tissue be present: the shape is altered, not the volume. Those who want additional volume can combine the procedure with an implant or autologous fat; those who want less can opt for a reduction. The most common reasons are pregnancy and breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or weakened connective tissue. The incision patterns depend on how much skin needs to be removed; the scars run around the areola and, depending on the findings, vertically below it. The consultation takes place in Frankfurt, and the surgery is performed in Oberursel.

Changing the shape, keeping the volume

After breastfeeding ends, the glandular tissue shrinks back, but the stretched skin does not; the same can happen after significant weight loss. The breasts then sag and the nipples point downward. The incision depends on how far the breast needs to be lifted: a circular incision around the areola is enough for about 2 cm, a vertical incision for about 5 cm, and anything beyond that requires an anchor incision. The circular incision is available from €4,500.

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Medically reviewed ✓

Written by Dr. med. Zeynep Potente

Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery

✓ Member of the DGPRÄC (German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons)

EBOPRAS – European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery - ebopras.eu

✓ Over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery

✓ Specialization: Breast surgery and mastopexy

📅 Last updated: August 11, 2026

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✓ Member of the DGPRÄC (German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons)

✓ Our own certified operating rooms in Oberursel

Benefits of a Breast Lift

✓ Restoration of the breast shape – A firmer, more youthful silhouette

✓ Nipple Lift – Optimally positioned for an aesthetically pleasing overall look

✓ Long-lasting – The results last for many years as long as your weight remains stable

✓ More Self-Confidence – Finally feeling comfortable in my clothes and at the beach again

✓ Natural Look – Your chest, only firmer and more defined

✓ Correcting Asymmetries – Breasts of different sizes or sagging breasts are made more symmetrical

✓ Can be combined – With enlargement or reduction, as desired

✓ Improved Body Awareness – No more heavy, sagging breasts

Who is a good candidate for a breast lift?

If your breasts have sagged after pregnancies
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the breasts enlarge significantly. After weaning, the glandular tissue shrinks back, but the stretched skin does not. The result: The breasts sag and appear saggy and empty. The nipples point downward instead of forward. Exercise and creams can’t do anything to fix this—only a breast lift can restore the breasts to their original shape.

If your breasts have sagged due to weight loss
After successfully losing weight, you’ve reached your goal—but your skin has lost its elasticity and can’t retract. Your breasts sag and no longer match your new, slimmer figure. A breast lift reshapes your breasts and harmoniously adapts them to your body.

When is a medical evaluation advisable?
If you have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, blood clotting disorders, or autoimmune diseases, a thorough preoperative evaluation is important. If there is a family history of breast cancer, we recommend a mammogram or ultrasound examination before surgery. Female smokers should consistently abstain from nicotine for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery. We work closely with experienced specialists to ensure your safety.

O-Cut vs. I-Cut vs. T-Cut – Which One Is Right for You?

Aspect O-cut (Benelli) I-incision (Lejour) T-cut (Anchor)
Main Objective Slight sagging Moderate sagging Severe sagging
Increase Possible Up to about 2 cm Up to about 5 cm/td> More than 5 cm
Duration of surgery 1–1.5 hours 2–2.5 hours 2.5–3 hours
Cutting Technique In a circle around the nipple Around the nipple + vertically downward Around the nipple + vertically + horizontally in the inframammary fold
Scars Only on the areola Areola + vertical line Areola + vertical line + inframammary fold
Anesthesia Twilight sleep or general anesthesia General anesthesia General anesthesia
Hospital Stay Outpatient or 1 night 1–2 nights 1–2 nights
Recovery time 1-2 weeks 2–3 weeks 2–3 weeks
Special Features Minimal scarring, but limited tightening A very natural result Maximum streamlining possible
Costs starting at 4.500 € 5.500 € 6.500 €

How does the treatment work?

Personal Consultation – Your Journey Starts Here

We take the time to listen to you. During a detailed consultation, we analyze the shape of your breasts, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan.

What we'll discuss:

  • Your personal goals and expectations
  • Degree of sagging and skin elasticity
  • Which neckline is right for you (O, I, or T)
  • Whether you would also like to have the size increased or decreased
  • Nipple Position and Desired Result
  • Medical History and Pre-existing Conditions
  • Anesthesia options (twilight sleep or general anesthesia)
  • Realistic Results Based on Photos
  • Costs and Financing Options

The Surgery – With Precision and Delicacy

O-incision (Benelli periareolar lift):
For mild sagging, we make a circular incision around the areola. Excess skin is removed, the tissue is tightened, and the nipple is slightly elevated if necessary. The advantage: minimal, barely visible scars. This method is suitable for small breasts with minimal sagging and good skin elasticity.

I-incision (vertical lift according to Lejour):
In cases of moderate sagging, a vertical incision is made from the areola to the inframammary fold, in addition to the incision around the nipple. The skin is partially tightened, excess tissue is removed, and the breast is reshaped. This technique produces very natural-looking results and is suitable for most breast lifts.

T-incision (Anker incision):
For severely sagging breasts, an additional horizontal incision is made in the inframammary fold—the scar then takes the shape of an inverted T. This method allows for maximum lifting and reshaping, even for large breasts. The scar in the inframammary fold is usually well concealed.

Where will the surgery take place?
In our own certified operating rooms in Oberursel (Oberhöchstadter Str. 8). From preoperative preparation through the surgery to the recovery room—everything under one roof.

Anesthesia – Safe and Comfortable

  • Twilight Sleep: Often sufficient for an O-cut

  • General anesthesia: The rule for I-cuts and T-cuts


Our specialist in anesthesiology, Dr. med. Livia Köhler, will personally care for you throughout the entire surgery.

Learn more about anesthesia

Aftercare & Recovery – What to Expect

The First 48 Hours: Hospital Stay and Rest
After the surgery, you will stay at our clinic for 1 to 2 nights for observation (in the case of an O-incision, outpatient care is often possible). A special support bra will be put on immediately after surgery to stabilize the breast. In the first few days, you may experience a feeling of tightness, mild pain, and swelling—this is completely normal. Keep your upper body slightly elevated and avoid sudden movements.

Days 3–7: Mobilization at Home
Starting on the third day, you may shower carefully. You should wear the support bra at all times. Short walks are important, but strenuous activities should be avoided. Do not lift heavy objects (over 5 kg) or make overhead movements. The swelling will subside each day, and your breasts will slowly regain their shape.

Week 2: Suture Removal
The stitches are removed after 10 to 14 days (unless they are dissolvable). Most patients feel increasingly comfortable and can resume light office work. The support bra should continue to be worn day and night.

Weeks 3–6: Return to Normalcy
After 2 to 3 weeks, you’ll be largely mobile again. At first, the breast will sit a little higher and feel firm—it will “settle” into its final position over the coming weeks. The support bra should be worn for a total of 6 weeks. After 4 weeks, you can go back to wearing a regular bra.

Sports, Sun, and Sauna: Take a 6–8-week break
Give your body at least 6 weeks off from exercise that puts strain on the chest (jogging, upper-body strength training). Light walks are possible starting in week 2. You should avoid saunas and swimming pools for 6 weeks. Protect the scars from sunlight for 12 months by using sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ or higher.

Scar Care Starting in Week 3
Once the wounds have completely closed, scar care begins. Applying special scar ointments or silicone gel daily, as well as gently massaging the scars, promotes healing. The scars are red at first and fade over 6 to 12 months into inconspicuous, light-colored lines.

The final result after 3–6 months
The full, final results of your breast lift will be visible after 3 to 6 months—by then, healing will be complete, all swelling will have subsided, the scars will have faded, and your breasts will have taken on their final, firm shape. You’ll be able to fully enjoy your new body image.

Potential Risks – We'll Be Open and Honest with You

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with a breast lift. We will discuss these with you in detail:

Common (temporary):

  • Swelling and bruising (1–3 weeks)
  • Tightness and tenderness (several weeks)
  • Temporary numbness in the nipples
  • Asymmetries During the Healing Phase


Rare:

  • Wound-healing disorders (increased risk among smokers)
  • Postoperative bleeding or hematomas
  • Infections
  • Loss or impairment of the ability to breastfeed
  • Visible or raised scars


Very rare:

  • Complete loss of sensation in the nipples (usually temporary)
  • Circulatory disorders of the nipple or skin
  • Pronounced scarring (keloid)
  • Asymmetries that need to be corrected

Our experienced team minimizes these risks through precise surgical techniques, careful patient selection, and close follow-up care. It is especially important that you consistently avoid nicotine before and after surgery.

Cost of a Breast Lift

The cost depends on the degree of sagging, the surgical method chosen, and any combinations thereof.

Performance Costs starting at
O-incision (periareolar lift) 4.500 €
I-incision (vertical lift) 5.500 €
T-incision (anchor lift) 6.500 €
Combination with Breast Augmentation (Implant) starting at 8,500 €
Combination with Breast Reduction starting at 7,500 €
Hospital Stay 500 € per night, not included in the surgery price
General anesthesia 1,000 €, not included in the surgery price
Support Bra approx. 100–150 € (sold separately)

Included in the price

  • Comprehensive Initial Evaluation and Consultation
  • Surgery performed by experienced female specialists
  • Medications and bandages
  • Follow-up examinations
  • Suture Removal


In addition to the price

  • General anesthesia: €1,000
  • Hospital stay: €500 per night


Cash acquisition?
A breast lift is generally considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance. Exception: In cases of very large, heavy breasts that cause documented orthopedic problems, a combination of a lift and reduction may be medically necessary. In this case, coverage may be available.

Alternatives & Combinations

Alternatives to Surgery
Depending on the extent of the sagging, other treatments may also help:

  • Radio Frequency/Ultrasound: Mild skin tightening for minimal sagging
  • Thread Lift: Minimal lifting with absorbable sutures (limited effect)
  • Autologous Fat Grafting: It can add volume, but it doesn't tighten the skin
  • Sports and Bras: It can strengthen muscles, but it cannot tighten sagging skin


However, in cases of true skin sagging, there is no alternative to surgical tightening.


Useful Combinations
The results can often be improved with complementary treatments:


We provide honest, personalized advice—only what truly suits you and meets your needs.

Who is treating you?

Dr. med. Zeynep Potente

Dr. med. Zeynep Potente

Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery

Learn more
Dr. med. Bianca Baican

Dr. med. Bianca Baican

Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery

Learn more
Dr. med. Livia Köhler

Dr. med. Livia Köhler

Specialist for anesthesia

Learn more
Dr. med. Christina Luther

Dr. med. Christina Luther

Specialist in Surgery and Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Lifts

How long does recovery take?

You will stay at the clinic for 1–2 nights (often on an outpatient basis for a cesarean section). Most patients are able to return to work after 2–3 weeks, and can resume exercise after 6 weeks. You will see the final results after 3–6 months.

General anesthesia is typically used for I-incisions and T-incisions. An O-incision can also be performed under twilight sedation. We will discuss with you which type of anesthesia is most appropriate.

Yes, a breast lift leaves scars. These run around the nipple and, depending on the method used, extend vertically downward and/or into the inframammary fold. The scars are red at first but fade over 6–12 months into inconspicuous, light-colored lines. With proper scar care and sun protection, they are barely visible in most patients after one year.

A breast lift can affect your ability to breastfeed, especially with more extensive procedures. With minimally invasive techniques such as the I-incision, the milk ducts usually remain intact. However, there is no guarantee. If you haven’t finished planning your family yet, we should take this into account when planning your procedure.

If you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, the results will last for many years—often 10 to 15 years or longer. The natural aging process and gravity will continue to take their toll, but you’ll be starting from a firmer baseline. Subsequent pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations can cause the breasts to sag again.

Yes, as a rule, a breast lift makes the breasts slightly smaller, since excess skin—and, if necessary, some tissue—is removed. If you would like your breasts to be fuller rather than smaller, the lift can be combined with an augmentation (using implants or your own fat).

You won't feel anything during the surgery because of the anesthesia. After the surgery, a feeling of tightness and moderate pain are normal and can be easily managed with medication. Most patients describe the pain as quite tolerable. A support bra also helps minimize discomfort.

In principle, growth should be complete. Most patients are between the ages of 30 and 60—often following pregnancies or weight loss. There is no upper age limit, as long as you are healthy and fit for surgery.

Ideally, this should be done after you've finished having children, since pregnancies can cause the breasts to stretch again. If you'd still like to have children, you can have the lift done later or opt for a minor correction.

From the guidebook

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Details About a Breast Lift

OP duration: 1–3 hours (depending on the method)

Type of anesthesia: Twilight sleep (O-incision) or general anesthesia (I-/T-incision)

Hospitalization: Outpatient or 1–2 nights as an inpatient

Incapacity for work: 2–3 weeks (depending on the job)

Sport: after 6–8 weeks

Socially Acceptable: after 2–3 weeks

Scarring: Around the nipple + vertically (+ horizontally for a T-incision)

Shelf life: 10–15 years or longer if weight remains stable

Final result visible: after 3–6 months

Costs: Starting at €4,500 (O-cut), starting at €5,500 (I-cut), starting at €6,500 (T-cut)

Acquisition of a pharmacy: Only when medically indicated (large, heavy breasts causing discomfort)

Follow-up care included: Yes, all follow-up appointments

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