Welcome to Mehiläinen Hospital
Read more
Breast lift surgery
A breast lift helps restore the youthful shape and firmness of the breasts. The procedure can also correct bothersome breast asymmetry. Seek consultation if the appearance of your breasts causes discomfort or dissatisfaction.
Specialist in the article
Plastiikkakirurgian ja kirurgian erikoislääkäri,MD
Revised 8/26/2025
Breast lift surgery in brief
- A breast lift can restore the natural shape and posture of the breasts, enhancing the overall appearance of the body. If the breasts are uneven in size or height, the surgery can correct asymmetry.
- The procedure is suitable for women whose breast development is complete and who have no health-related contraindications.
- The surgical technique is chosen individually and performed according to the patient’s preferences.
What is a breast lift surgery?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is performed by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue to make the breasts appear firmer, perkier, and proportionate to the body. The procedure can also balance any asymmetry between the breasts.
During the surgery, excess skin is removed, and the breasts are reshaped to appear firmer and more youthful. The breasts are lifted, and the nipples can be repositioned to a more natural location. The areola can also be reduced during the surgery.
If breast volume enhancement is desired, fat transfer or implants can be used. Breast lift surgery and implant placement are often performed as separate procedures to minimize scarring.
The surgery can also correct breast asymmetry. It is quite common for one breast to be firmer and better positioned than the other. While the results of a breast lift are generally longer-lasting for women with smaller breasts, the procedure can benefit women regardless of breast size.
Who is breast lift surgery suitable for?
Breast lift surgery is suitable for women of all ages whose breast development is complete. Many women also postpone the surgery until they are no longer planning to have children, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the results. However, breast lift surgery does not usually impact breastfeeding, as the nipples and milk ducts are not cut.
A breast lift may be considered in the following cases:
- The breast size is appropriate, but the breasts have sagged.
- The breasts are no longer firm.
- Sagging breasts and nipples, with areolas pointing downward.
- Nipples hang below the breast crease.
- The breasts are asymmetrical.
Preparing for breast lift surgery
- Initial consultation. The first step toward surgery is booking an appointment with a plastic surgeon. During the consultation, aesthetic goals and any concerns about the procedure will be discussed.
- General health. The plastic surgeon will also assess your general health. Past and current medical conditions, medications, supplements, herbal products, and previous surgeries will be reviewed.
- Physical examination. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will examine the breasts, assess their size, shape, skin elasticity, and the placement of the areolas. The doctor may recommend a mammogram before the surgery.
- Treatment plan. The plastic surgeon will create an individualized plan, defining the most suitable surgical technique and the extent of the procedure. You will also receive detailed instructions on pre-surgery preparations, such as fasting and medication adjustments.
- Instructions. Following the plastic surgeon’s instructions is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery.
- Smoking and medication. Avoid smoking for at least 6–8 weeks before and after the surgery, and refrain from certain medications.
- Clothing. On the day of the surgery, wear loose, soft clothing and bring supportive bras if recommended by the doctor.
- Support. Arrange for assistance at home after the surgery, such as help with dressing, household chores, and daily activities.
How breast lift surgery proceeds
Before the surgery, your health will be confirmed to ensure you are fit for the procedure. Laboratory tests or other examinations may be conducted if necessary. You will be prepared for the surgery and anesthesia.
The plastic surgeon will remove excess skin, reshape the breast tissue, and, if necessary, reposition the nipple higher. The procedure is tailored to the chosen surgical technique and your preferences.
The incisions are usually closed with sutures, and supportive bandages or bras may be applied to the breasts. The surgery typically lasts 2–3 hours.
After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room, where your condition will be closely monitored. Most patients can go home the same day, but overnight observation may sometimes be required. You will also receive detailed home care instructions.
Recovery after breast lift surgery
- Supportive bras. Immediately after the surgery, supportive bras are applied to the breasts to support the tissues and reduce swelling. These bras should be worn around the clock for 2–4 weeks.
- Swelling, bruising, and pain. Swelling, bruising, and mild pain in the area may occur and can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the doctor.
- Physical activity. Avoid physical strain, such as heavy lifting, sports, and sauna use, for approximately 3–6 weeks, depending on the situation. Light activities, such as walking and light household chores, can be resumed a few days after the surgery.
- Sutures. Sutures are usually removed about a week after the surgery unless dissolvable sutures are used.
- Scar care.Post-surgery scars are initially red and slightly raised but will fade and soften over time. Scar care may include silicone gel or patches as instructed by the doctor. Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds on the scar area for the first few months.
- Contacting the doctor. If you experience unusual pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or discharge in the surgical area, contact your doctor. Sudden fever, difficulty breathing, or heavy bleeding are signs that require immediate medical attention.
- Follow-up. Follow-up appointments are an essential part of recovery, monitoring wound healing and the final results. Rehabilitation is usually not required, but a calm recovery, rest, and adherence to instructions support good healing.
Prices for appointments with specialists, such as gynaecologists, dermatologists, cardiologists, orthopaedists and ophthalmologists, can be found in our appointment booking service.
Take into account in the price list
The price estimate includes the Kanta fee and the outpatient fee.| Service | Price estimate |
|---|---|
| Appointment with a specialist, 20 min Price per appointment. | from 99,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 129,80 € |
| Appointment with a specialist, 30 min Price per appointment. | from 114,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 144,80 € |
| Appointment with a specialist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 142,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 172,80 € |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 20 min | from 69,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 139,80 € |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 30 min | from 74,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 144,80 € |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 20 min | from 117,70 € Without Kela reimbursement from 147,70 € |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 30 min | from 127,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 157,80 € |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 20 min | from 112,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 142,80 € |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 30 min | from 133,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 163,80 € |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 20 min | from 115,20 € Without Kela reimbursement from 145,20 € |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 30 min | from 134,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 164,80 € |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 20 min | from 111,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 141,80 € |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 30 min | from 133,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 163,80 € |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 109,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 159,80 € |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 60 min Price per appointment. | from 120,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 180,80 € |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 30 min | from 127,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 157,80 € |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 45 min | from 138,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 168,80 € |
Other related services
Botulinum and filler treatments
The treatments improve skin appearance and reduce wrinkles.
Breast augmentation surgery
An aesthetic procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts.
Breast reduction surgery
A surgical procedure that improves quality of life and reduces pain.
Consultation with a plastic surgery nurse
A free consultation helps you find the right treatment options.
Eyelid surgery performed by a plastic surgeon
A plastic surgical procedure that enhances the appearance and functionality of the eyelids.
Facelift
A plastic surgery procedure that tightens the skin on the face and neck.
Fat transfer
Restore a softer and more youthful appearance to your face using your body's own fat cells.
Labiaplasty
Pain and tenderness in the labia may be caused by asymmetry or large size.
Liposuction
A cosmetic procedure that permanently removes fat deposits.
Lower eyelid surgery
Excess skin and fat under the lower eyelids can be removed surgically.
Male gynecomastia surgery
Breast enlargement in men is often caused by excess glandular tissue.
Mole check
A mole check is a comprehensive examination of moles performed by a mole specialist.
Plastic surgeon
A specialist in plastic surgery performs treatments and surgeries to enhance the appearance and functionality of the face and body.
Rhinoplasty also known as nose surgery
Rhinoplasty can be used to correct the appearance of the nose and functional issues.
Scar revision surgery
An experienced plastic surgeon helps eliminate bothersome scars.
Tattoo removal
Tattoo removal can be done safely with laser treatment or surgery.
Upper eyelid surgery
With age, the upper eyelid becomes slacker, which can result in a limited field of vision.
Rintojen kohotusleikkaus Virossa
Mehiläisen tytäryhtiöt Virossa tarjoavat rintojen kohotusleikkauksia myös suomalaisille asiakkaille. Palveluista on mahdollista hakea Kelalta korvausta rajat ylittävän terveydenhuollon lain mukaisesti.
Frequently asked questions about breast lift surgery
Excess skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned higher if necessary to give the breasts a firmer and more youthful appearance.
Full recovery typically takes 2–6 weeks, but light daily activities can often be resumed within a few days.
Täysi toipuminen kestää yleensä 2–6 viikkoa, mutta kevyeen arkeen voi palata jo muutaman päivän kuluttua leikkauksesta.
The effects of the surgery are long-lasting, but factors such as lifestyle, age, and weight fluctuations can influence the appearance of the breasts over time.
The surgery may impact breastfeeding ability, but in most cases, breastfeeding remains possible, depending on the surgical technique used.
The cost depends on the extent of the procedure and the area treated. It usually includes the initial consultation, the surgery itself, necessary hospital care, and follow-up appointments. A precise cost estimate is provided during the consultation with the plastic surgeon. Explore Mehiläinen’s flexible payment options.
