Breast uplift is a surgical operation, which usually takes place under general anaesthetic, although some surgeons for some cases may use a combination of local anaesthetic and sedation. The operation can last up to two hours and there are several techniques that can be used, all of which involve the removal of excess skin and a reshaping of the breast using the remaining skin. Some techniques also involve moving the areola (the brownish area around the nipple) into a higher position.

You will be required stay in hospital overnight, to take approximately two weeks off work to rest and should avoid lifting and physical exercise for about six weeks. It is important that the breasts are well supported by means of a firm dressing initially and then by a supportive bra. The sutures will be removed between seven and fourteen days and it is important to keep the incision sites out of the sun for one year.

The results

Your breasts should appear higher, as will your nipples. Breast lifts are sometimes permanent, but the breasts may droop again as you get older, or if you become pregnant or put on weight.

The risks

The surgery leaves permanent scars which initially may be lumpy and red but which normally fade close to your natural skin colour over several months. These scars may be more noticeable, eg wider, if you smoke. The procedure may also leave you with breasts that are not both the same size, asymmetrical nipples, or a permanent nipple loss, or loss of feeling in your nipples or breasts.

Other risks associated with breast implants include infection, blood loss, movement or splitting (rupture or leakage) of the implant, creasing or rippling of the breast around the implant, and a loss of sensation in the breast. Breast implants may also affect your ability to breastfeed.

If the implant is infected or ruptures, it may have to be removed, which is not always a straightforward procedure. If you think the implant has ruptured you should contact your doctor immediately.

Some implants will need to be replaced after approximately 15 years