Mastopexy (Breast Lift): Remodelling with or without prostheses in Coimbra and Lisbon

Correction of sagging breasts. Natural results and discreet scars. Recovery with the R24R technique.

Dr Ricardo Carvalho - Plastic Surgeon with professional card no. 44167 from the Portuguese Medical Association.

What is Mastopexy?

Do you feel that your body no longer reflects who you are today?

After pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations or simply over the years, it's natural for breasts to lose their firmness. Many women feel increasingly uncomfortable with their image, avoiding plunging necklines, feeling insecure in swimwear or dependent on high-support bras.

Mastopexy (or breast lift) is the plastic surgery that can help reverse this sagging. The aim is not to achieve unrealistic perfection, but to reposition the breast tissue, remove excess skin and raise the nipple to an anatomically natural position.

In addition to a more rejuvenated appearance, the silhouette tends to become more harmonious. In cases where the breast has become very "empty", mastopexy can be combined with the placement of breast prostheses to restore the lost volume.

We clear up your main doubts

We know that going ahead with cosmetic surgery brings uncertainties. Being completely transparent, these are the answers to the questions we hear most often in consultation:

"Will I have very visible scars?"
Any surgery that removes skin leaves a permanent scar, and mastopexy is no exception. However, the incisions are designed to be hidden through the bra or bikini. With the right surgical technique and strict adherence to post-operative care, the scars tend to fade and become quite discreet over time.
"Is recovery very painful and time-consuming?"
The fear of staying "still" for a long time is common, but today's reality is different. With the use of modern surgical techniques (such as rapid recovery techniques R24R), the discomfort is highly manageable with the prescribed medication. Many patients are able to resume their lighter daily routines within a few days and are closely monitored by our team.
"Will the result look artificial?"
All the remodelling of the breast tissue is done to respect the proportions of your body, guaranteeing a result that looks like yours, whether you use the technique with or without a prosthesis.

The decision to have surgery should be made with time, safety and clear information. The success of the procedure depends on a rigorous and personalised medical assessment.

Contact us to book your face-to-face assessment appointment in Coimbra or Lisbon.
We also offer online consultations (teleconsultation), an excellent screening option for those who live in other cities in Portugal (Porto, Aveiro, Leiria, Pombal, etc.) or abroad, allowing a first direct contact with Dr Ricardo Carvalho.

Mastopexy explained on video

Who is indicated for a Mastopexy?

Which woman is suitable for a breast lift?

Any woman whose the breast is flaccid ("empty") and ptotic ("droopy") is a candidate for breast lift surgery.

In some cases, the breast is so "empty" that you'll need to do an simultaneous volume increase.

Thus, the volume increase can be done with breast prostheses or with body fatIt can be removed from the abdomen, thighs or buttocks.

Before and after plastic surgery image of a female patient in frontal view, showing the clinical results obtained.

What are your expectations before having a mastopexy?

A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to improve your physical appearance and boost your self-esteem.

However, the new image you will acquire will not in itself change all the other areas of your life (professional, family, social), so it is essential to realise this.

Emotional balance is essential when undergoing surgery, especially if it is cosmetic in nature.

In addition, seeing before and after photos of other patients can help establish a more accurate expectation of what can be achieved.

Before and After Cases - Mastopexy without prostheses

Frontal image of a female patient before and after a breast lift without implants, showing the correction of significant breast asymmetry, with more symmetrical and lifted breasts after the procedure.

Right lateral image of a female patient before and after a breast lift without implants, showing the correction of asymmetry and the lifting of the breasts, with a visible improvement in symmetry and shape after the procedure.

Frontal image of a clinical case of breast lift without prostheses in a female patient, showing the before and after surgery, with visible improvement in the contour and elevation of the breasts, and scars still visible but in the process of adequate post-operative treatment.

See more clinical cases

Note: The images shown on this page are real examples of treatments carried out by Dr Ricardo CarvalhoThese are published with the prior, free and informed consent of the users involved, respecting the rules on the protection of personal data and the right to an image.

It is important to note that results may vary from person to person, depending on individual conditions and the clinical assessment carried out. These images are not a guarantee of similar results in other cases.

The decision to carry out any treatment should be made after a personalised medical consultation and assessment, ensuring that the procedure is suited to your specific needs and conditions.

Before and After Cases - Mastopexy with prostheses

Before and after a breast lift with breast augmentation implants. Front position.

Before and after a breast lift with breast augmentation implants. 45 degree position

Before and after image of breast lift with implants in a female patient, showing the frontal perspective where we can see the increase in projection and upper volume of the breasts two months after the surgical procedure carried out with high-projection, ultralight round prostheses placed behind the muscle using the internal bra technique.

Right lateral image of a female patient after a breast lift with implants, showing the increase in volume and elevation of the upper part of the breast two months after the intervention.

Before and after breast lift surgery with implants on a female patient, seen from the front, showing the improvement in the contour and volume of the breasts after the placement of micro-textured, round, high-projection, 360cc prostheses, carried out in a single stage.

Before and after a breast lift with implants on a female patient, seen from the left side, showing the result six months after the procedure that combined breast lift and breast augmentation in a single surgery, using 360cc high-projection round micro-textured prostheses.

See more clinical cases

Discover your before and after in 3D

Make your simulation

How can the surgery be performed?

No breast implants

It is recommended for women who:

They haven't lost much breast volume and only have sagging or excess skin.
They are satisfied with their current breast size and don't want to enlarge them.
They prefer not to put breast implants or foreign bodies in their bodies.
They are looking for a very natural-looking result.

With breast implants

It is indicated for women who want to correct sagging breasts and breast ptosis, while at the same time increasing breast volume. It is a suitable option for those seeking firmer, lifted breasts with a fuller neckline. This procedure is recommended for women who:

They have sagging breasts and breast ptosis due to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss.
They want not only to lift, but also to add volume to their breasts.
They prefer a result that combines the correction of sagging with an increase in breast volume.
Before surgery, a pre-surgical assessment is carried out to analyse the patient's specific case and recommend the different prosthesis options, according to their preferences and the guidance of the plastic surgeon.

Before and after clinical photograph of a woman, showing the frontal view of her face, showing the results of facial plastic surgery.

What are the potential benefits of a mastopexy?

For those who are dissatisfied with the position of their breasts, this surgery can bring several advantages:

Improved appearanceIt can reduce sagging, but it depends on factors such as age and skin.
Correction of breast asymmetry: Helps with mild to moderate cases, assessed individually.
Increased self-esteemMany patients report improvements, but the emotional results vary.

Stages in the operating theatre

The steps in the operating theatre usually include:

Pre-surgical marking: The surgeon marks the breasts to guide the incisions.
Anaesthesia: Generally performed under general anaesthesia.
Incisions: cuts are made around the areola and, if necessary, other incisions are made to remove excess skin.
Fitting the prostheses: After removing the excess skin, the prostheses are inserted (in the case of using implants).
Remodelling: The breast tissue is remodelled and the nipple is repositioned to a higher location.
Closing the incisions: The incisions are sutured, promoting the new contour of the breast.
Dressings and post-surgical bra: The patient leaves the operating theatre wearing a surgical bra.

Recovery after a Mastopexy

Rapid recovery R24R

Dr Ricardo Carvalho has advanced training in the "Real 24H Recovery" (R24R), He completed his certification with Dr Thiago Cavalcanti in Brazil. This continuous technical updating enables the application of modern surgical approaches focused on post-operative recovery in breast augmentation and reduction surgeries, including methods such as Grip Plane, Mastogrip and Dual Plane.

These approaches aim to reduce surgical trauma and recovery time, providing a more comfortable and safer post-operative period. The aim of this protocol is to enable patients to resume their basic and light daily activities in around 24 hours after the intervention, always depending on individual clinical evolution.

The rigorous application of these techniques is intended to provide a faster recovery, This is combined with the search for greater stability in breast prostheses and harmonious aesthetic results.

In this way, whenever the medical assessment allows it, the patient is discharged the day after surgery, You can continue your recovery in the comfort of your own home.

Find out more about the R24R.

A manual lymphatic drainage in the post-operative period is often recommended as a complementary procedure to aid in a smoother and more effective recovery. When clinically indicated, this technique can contribute to:

Stimulation of local blood and lymph circulation.
Reduction of oedema, helping to reduce the natural swelling that occurs after surgery.
Prevention of fibrosis, favouring mobility and the natural appearance of the skin.
Promotion of a favourable environment for correct healing and tissue regeneration.

Lymphatic drainage is an excellent complement to surgical treatment. However, to ensure its safety and effectiveness, it is essential that it is carried out by a suitably qualified professional and always in accordance with the specific guidelines of your plastic surgeon.

Technique for fitting breast implants

Subglandular

When breast implants are placed subglandularly, they are below the breast tissue but above the pectoral muscles. It is important that women who choose this option have enough breast tissue to cover the prostheses. This option offers shorter surgery and recovery times, as well as being able to accommodate larger cup sizes. The doctor will carry out a physical assessment before surgery to determine whether this is the best approach for your individual case.

Submuscular

With submuscular placement, the prostheses are positioned under the breast tissue and pectoral muscles. For women with little breast tissue to cover, this technique can result in a more natural and authentic appearance. Submuscular placement can also help prevent complications and imperfections later on, such as the 'double nipple' effect, capsular contracture or rippling, but requires a slightly longer recovery period. Dr Ricardo Carvalho will help you determine the best location for your prostheses during your private consultation.

Types of scars

Periareolar

It involves an incision around the areola, usually indicated for cases that require a minor correction

Vertical

It includes a "V" or "Lollipop" shaped incision that extends from the areola to the lower fold of the breast, suitable for mild to moderate skin laxity.

Inverted T

It involves an incision around the areola, vertically up to the fold of the breast and then horizontally along the breast fold. It is indicated for cases of more pronounced ptosis.

Why choose Dr Ricardo?

In his initial consultation, the Dr Ricardo Carvalho will listen carefully to you to understand what you hope to achieve with this surgery: your goals, preferences, doubts and fears so that you can make an informed decision about your surgery. He will also carry out a thorough assessment.

He is a plastic surgeon with solid training and vast experience, totally dedicated to achieving natural and harmonious results, as illustrated by his several clinical cases (before and after).

Graduated from the University of Coimbra, he specialised in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (professional certificate no. 44167, from the University of Coimbra). Medical Association).

Dr Ricardo Carvalho uses the operating theatre at the SANFIL clinic in Coimbra, which is ERS-certified and has a supervised recovery area.

Following the recommendations of the Portuguese Medical Association and the Portuguese Society of Plastic Surgery (SPCPRE), Dr Ricardo Carvalho operates with a full team. We believe that the presence of multiple specialists in the operating theatre is a fundamental pillar of safety. In all surgeries, the team is made up of:

Dr Ricardo Carvalho (Principal Plastic Surgeon);
A second assistant plastic surgeon;
An anaesthetist (present throughout the procedure);
Operating theatre nursing team.

Portrait of Dr Ricardo Carvalho, a plastic surgeon working in Coimbra and Lisbon, wearing a dark blue suit and tie with a fine pattern. He has his arms crossed and is smiling, with a black background.

Should I consider a breast lift?

A woman should consider having this surgery when she has characteristics such as:

Sagging breasts with no volume;
More elongated breasts;
Drooping nipples, positioned below the folds of the breast;
Nipples pointing downwards;
Areolas disproportionate to the size of the breast;
One breast sagging more than the other.

These conditions can be the result of factors such as ageing, genetics, weight changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding or the menopause. The surgery is indicated for women looking to improve the harmony and firmness of their breasts, and can be performed with or without breast implants.

Summary

Surgery time

Absence from work

1 week

Hospitalisation

1 day

Bathing

From day 1

Mobility

From day 1

Exercises

After 6 weeks

Wearing a special bra

6 weeks

Sexual activity

After 4 weeks

Sleeping on your back

4 weeks

Total Recovery

6 weeks

Driving

After 1 week

Healing

After 2 weeks

Observations

These are approximate times and may vary according to each patient.
Strictly follow your doctor's instructions for a safe and successful recovery.
Don't hesitate to ask questions or report any unusual symptoms to your surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected result of a breast lift?

The aim of this surgery is to "lift" the breast into an anatomically appropriate position and eventually increase the size of the breast so that it is proportional to the woman's body and she feels comfortable with her image.

Is the surgery safe?

Like any surgery, a breast lift is not without its risks.

Therefore, the first step is to consult a plastic surgeon who is registered with the Portuguese Medical Association (www.ordemdosmedicos.pt) and the Portuguese Society of Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (www.spcpre.org.pt).

In addition, it is important to choose a clinic with a suitable environment for the consultation and surgery and to choose the right time for the surgery (socially, personally or professionally).

You should talk openly with your doctor, ask any questions you may have, clarify your objectives and expectations and hear about the possible results, the necessary post-operative care and possible complications.

How much does a mastopexy cost?

The price of a mastopexy depends on each case and also on whether the surgery is with or without prostheses.

For reference, prices start at €4,500, but the final price can only be determined following a valuation.

Please contact us via the Contact Form to get a quote tailored to your circumstances.

Does mastopexy affect the ability to breastfeed in the future?

Surgery can interfere with the ability to breastfeed, depending on the technique used and the amount of glandular tissue preserved. If you plan to become pregnant and breastfeed in the future, it's essential to discuss this during your consultation so that Dr Ricardo Carvalho can opt, whenever your anatomy allows, for a technique that preserves the structures responsible for breastfeeding.

Does the weight of larger prostheses make the breast sag more quickly?

Yes, that's true. However, there are some ways to help prevent this from happening. One of these ways is to use prostheses that are lighter (although they retain their volume or larger size). These prostheses can be 30% lighter than other, more common prostheses and thus place less weight on the breast tissue.

Why should I always have a check-up with the surgeon?

This type of procedure is not just a trip to the operating theatre.

This is an indispensable part, but not the only one, of a process that begins with the preoperative consultation and continues in the postoperative period with rehabilitation care.

During the consultation, before the surgery, all doubts are answered and the possible results, risks and complications that may occur are explained. The type of prosthesis and the most suitable surgical technique are also decided upon, and recovery and recommended post-operative care are explained.

What is the difference between mastopexy and breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation focuses solely on adding volume to the breast by inserting prostheses. Mastopexy, on the other hand, has the main aim of lifting sagging breasts (ptosis) and removing excess skin and sagging. If the breast is sagging and lacks volume at the same time, the two procedures are often combined in a single operation (Mastopexy with prostheses).

Are the results of mastopexy permanent?

Mastopexy reverses the effects of time and gravity in a highly effective way, but does not stop the body's natural ageing process. Significant weight fluctuations, new pregnancies or the natural loss of skin elasticity over the years can alter the shape and position of the breast in the future. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a stable weight will help prolong the results for many years to come.