Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery), MRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Your Guide to Breast Lift Procedure
Over time, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations and the natural ageing process can cause the breasts to lose firmness and sit lower on the chest. These changes may affect breast shape and position, even if your breast size remains the same.
Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, reshapes and lifts sagging breasts to restore a firmer, more youthful breast contour. The procedure is tailored to your anatomy, degree of breast sagging and aesthetic goals to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.
Procedure Overview
What is Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A breast lift is a cosmetic breast procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple to a higher position.
Rather than increasing breast size, a breast lift works by tightening the skin envelope and reshaping the existing breast tissue to restore a firmer, more elevated breast contour. Depending on the degree of breast sagging, the procedure may also involve reducing the size of enlarged areolas to create a more balanced appearance.
Rather than increasing breast size, a breast lift works by tightening the skin envelope and reshaping the existing breast tissue to restore a firmer, more elevated breast contour. Depending on the degree of breast sagging, the procedure may also involve reducing the size of enlarged areolas to create a more balanced appearance.
Potential Benefits & Outcomes
What Are the Benefits of Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A breast lift improves the position and shape of the breasts by addressing the effects of breast sagging. While individual results vary, the procedure may offer several benefits, including:
Understanding Your Suitability
Is a Breast Lift Suitable for Me?
The suitability of a breast lift depends on factors such as the degree of breast sagging, breast shape, skin quality and your desired outcome
You may be a suitable breast lift candidate if you:
A consultation with Dr Evan Woo can help determine whether a breast lift is the right option for your goals and anatomy.
Treatment Options
What Are the Different Breast Lift Techniques?
Breast lift techniques differ primarily in the incision pattern used. The most appropriate technique depends on the degree of breast sagging, the amount of excess skin and the extent of lifting required.
Periareolar (Donut) Lift
Uses a circular incision around the areola and is typically recommended for mild breast sagging. It may also be used to reduce the size of enlarged areolas.
Vertical (Lollipop) Lift
Uses incisions around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. It is commonly recommended for mild to moderate breast sagging and allows for greater reshaping of the breast.
Wise Pattern (Anchor) Lift
Uses incisions around the areola, vertically down the breast and along the breast crease. It is typically recommended for moderate to severe breast sagging or when more extensive lifting and reshaping are required.
Find the Breast Lift Approach That's Right for You
Whether you require a breast lift alone or in combination with breast augmentation, Dr Woo will recommend the approach best suited to your needs.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Preparing for the Breast Lift Procedure
Careful planning helps ensure your breast lift is tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals. Before surgery, you can generally expect the following:
Consultation and Assessment
Dr Evan Woo will assess your breast shape, skin quality, degree of breast sagging and treatment goals before recommending the most appropriate surgical approach.
Treatment Planning
You will discuss the expected outcomes, incision options and recovery process to develop a personalised surgical plan.
Preparing for Surgery
You will receive personalised instructions on medications, smoking cessation, fasting requirements and arranging support after your procedure.
Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns so that you feel informed and prepared before surgery.
What to Expect
What Happens During Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and is tailored to the degree of breast sagging and your desired outcome. While every procedure is individualised, it generally involves the following steps:
| Step | What to Expect |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. |
| Incision Placement | Dr Evan Woo makes carefully planned incisions based on the amount of lifting required, your breast anatomy and skin quality. The incision pattern is selected to achieve the desired lift while minimising visible scarring where possible. |
| Breast Reshaping | Excess skin is removed and the underlying breast tissue is reshaped to create a firmer, more lifted breast contour. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more natural position while preserving their blood supply. Enlarged areolas may also be reduced when appropriate. |
| Closing the Incisions | Once the breasts have been reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressings are applied. A supportive surgical bra is fitted to help minimise swelling and support healing. |
| After the Procedure | Breast lift surgery typically takes between two and four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is combined with breast augmentation. Most patients can return home on the same day, although an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended. |
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia is administered so you remain asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Incision Placement
Dr Evan Woo makes carefully planned incisions based on the amount of lifting required, your breast anatomy and skin quality. The incision pattern is selected to achieve the desired lift while minimising visible scarring where possible.
Breast Reshaping
Excess skin is removed and the underlying breast tissue is reshaped to create a firmer, more lifted breast contour. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more natural position while preserving their blood supply. Enlarged areolas may also be reduced when appropriate.
Closing the Incisions
Once the breasts have been reshaped, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressings are applied. A supportive surgical bra is fitted to help minimise swelling and support healing.
After the Procedure
Breast lift surgery typically takes between two and four hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is combined with breast augmentation. Most patients can return home on the same day, although an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended.
Restore a Firmer, More Youthful Breast Contour
Every breast lift is tailored to your anatomy and desired outcome to restore a firmer, more proportionate breast contour.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery
Recovery after a breast lift is gradual, with most patients returning to light daily activities within one to two weeks. While your breasts will appear lifted immediately after surgery, the final shape continues to develop as swelling resolves and the tissues settle.
| What to Expect | Details |
| Initial Recovery | Temporary swelling, bruising, tightness and mild discomfort are expected after surgery. Most patients can resume light daily activities within one to two weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon. |
| Aftercare Recommendations | Wear a supportive surgical bra, care for your incisions as instructed, and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments to support healing and monitor your recovery. |
| Final Results | Your breasts will appear more lifted immediately after surgery. As swelling subsides and the tissues settle, the final breast shape becomes more apparent over the following weeks to months. |
Initial Recovery
Temporary swelling, bruising, tightness and mild discomfort are expected after surgery. Most patients can resume light daily activities within one to two weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until advised by your surgeon.
Aftercare Recommendations
Wear a supportive surgical bra, care for your incisions as instructed, and attend your scheduled follow-up appointments to support healing and monitor your recovery.
Final Results
Your breasts will appear more lifted immediately after surgery. As swelling subsides and the tissues settle, the final breast shape becomes more apparent over the following weeks to months.
Understanding the Risks
Risks and Potential Complications of a Breast Lift
As with any surgical procedure, a breast lift carries potential risks. General surgical risks include bleeding, infection, scarring and the possibility of revision surgery.
Additional risks specific to breast lift surgery may include:
During your consultation, Dr Evan Woo will explain the potential risks associated with breast lift surgery, discuss how they relate to your individual circumstances and answer any questions you may have before proceeding with treatment.
Trusted Breast Screening Expertise
Why Patients Choose
Dr Evan Woo for Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Dedicated Breast Surgery Practice
Dr Evan Woo's practice is dedicated exclusively to breast surgery, encompassing aesthetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery, providing focused care across the full spectrum of breast procedures.
Fellowship-Trained Breast Surgeon
Following specialist training in Singapore, Dr Woo completed a Microsurgery Fellowship at the Nottingham Breast Institute in the United Kingdom, strengthening his expertise in reconstructive and complex breast surgery.
A Lift Tailored to Your Natural Shape
Every breast lift is planned according to the degree of breast sagging, skin quality and breast volume. The appropriate lift technique is selected to restore breast position while maintaining natural shape, proportion and long-term support.
Integrated Breast Surgery Planning
For women who would benefit from additional procedures, such as breast augmentation or breast reduction, Dr Woo develops an integrated surgical plan that addresses breast shape, position and volume in a single, cohesive approach.
Every Journey is Different
How a Breast Lift Fits Different Patient Journeys
Breast lift surgery can be tailored to different life stages and treatment goals. While many women seek mastopexy to address breast sagging following pregnancy or ageing, it may also be combined with other breast procedures to achieve a more comprehensive outcome.
As Part of a Mummy Makeover
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight changes can lead to breast sagging, loss of firmness and reduced upper breast fullness. A breast lift restores breast position and shape, and may be combined with breast augmentation to restore volume as part of a mummy makeover. Additional body contouring procedures may also be performed depending on your individual goals.
As Part of Breast Cancer Reconstruction
A breast lift may be performed alongside breast reconstruction or on the opposite breast to improve breast symmetry following breast cancer surgery. The most appropriate approach depends on factors such as the type of reconstruction, cancer treatment plan and your individual anatomy.
Your Journey Starts Here
Lift and Reshape Your Breasts with Dr Evan Woo
A breast lift can restore a firmer, more youthful breast contour by addressing breast sagging and improving breast shape and position. Whether these changes have occurred following pregnancy, weight loss or the natural ageing process, the procedure is tailored to achieve results that complement your natural proportions and aesthetic goals.
At Evan Woo Plastic Surgery, every breast lift is tailored to your anatomy, degree of breast sagging and aesthetic goals. Dr Evan Woo combines dedicated breast surgery expertise with personalised surgical planning to recommend the most appropriate breast lift technique and guide you through every stage of your treatment. Schedule a consultation to discuss the approach best suited to your needs.
Helpful Information
FAQs About Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
How Long Is the Recovery After a Breast Lift?
Most patients can return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, although recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Swelling, bruising and mild discomfort are common during the first few days. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and upper body activities should be avoided until your surgeon advises that it is safe to resume them.
How Long Will My Breast Lift Last?
A breast lift provides long-lasting improvement in breast shape and position. However, the natural ageing process, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant weight changes can continue to affect the breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight and following your surgeon’s advice may help preserve your results.
What Is the Best Age to Get a Breast Lift?
There is no ideal age for a breast lift. The procedure may be suitable for women who have fully developed breasts and are concerned about breast sagging or changes in breast shape. Suitability depends on factors such as your anatomy, skin quality, overall health and aesthetic goals rather than age alone.
Will My Breasts Look Smaller After a Breast Lift?
A breast lift does not significantly reduce breast volume, but your breasts may appear slightly smaller because excess skin is removed and the breast tissue is reshaped into a firmer, more lifted contour. If you would like to increase breast size or restore lost volume, a breast lift can often be combined with breast augmentation.
Is a Breast Lift Painful?
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. After surgery, it is normal to experience temporary soreness, tightness and discomfort, which can usually be managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients find that these symptoms gradually improve over the first few days to weeks.
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Lift Surgeon
Experience You Can Rely On
Our Breast Lift Surgeon
Dr Evan Woo
Senior Consultant Breast and Plastic Surgeon
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
- Master of Medicine (Surgery), National University of Singapore
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
- Fellow, Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Evan Woo is a specialist plastic, reconstructive and breast surgeon with a focused practice in aesthetic breast surgery, breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery. Having completed specialist training in Singapore and a Microsurgery Fellowship at the Nottingham Breast Institute in the United Kingdom, he combines advanced plastic surgical techniques with extensive expertise in breast surgery to perform personalised breast lift procedures that restore breast shape, position and proportion.
His expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery allows every breast lift to be tailored to the individual’s anatomy, degree of breast sagging and aesthetic goals. Whether performed as a standalone procedure or combined with breast augmentation, Dr Woo carefully evaluates each patient’s needs to recommend the surgical approach best suited to achieving balanced, natural-looking results.
