Breast Lift & Reduction
Two closely related operations — what each one changes, where the incisions go, and what recovery is like.
The two operations
A breast lift and a breast reduction are close relatives. They reshape the breast in the same way, through the same incision patterns, and a reduction includes a lift as part of the operation. The difference is what is removed. A lift removes skin and repositions the nipple without changing breast size; a reduction does that and also removes breast tissue to make the breast smaller.
Which one is right for you is decided in consultation, and for some patients the answer is a lift combined with an augmentation rather than either operation on its own.
Mastopexy
A woman’s breasts may droop as a result of the natural effects of aging, heredity, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss. A breast lift, or mastopexy, corrects sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple higher. This operation is a trade‑off of improved shape for permanent scars. The scar is hidden by clothing and typically heals very well, with minimal visibility.
Breast lifts rejuvenate the breasts by trimming excess skin and tightening supporting tissues to achieve a lifted, youthful contour. After a mastopexy, the breasts are higher on the chest and firmer to the touch. Breast lifts can also reposition and reduce the size of the areola, the dark skin surrounding the nipple, which may have stretched or drooped. Breast size does not change after a breast lift, nor does the fullness or roundness in the upper part of the breasts. Women who desire larger or more rounded breasts may want to consider a breast augmentation with a breast lift.
There are multiple approaches to the breast lift. The three most common incision types are:
- Doughnut — two rings around the areola.
- Lollipop — around the areola and down to the breast crease.
- Anchor — the lollipop with an additional half‑moon incision along the breast crease.
Dr. Haddock will discuss the incision pattern with you during the consultation. The choice will be dictated by your goals and anatomy.
Reduction mammaplasty
Breast reduction surgery is effective in eliminating many of the common problems that result from having overly large breasts. These include symptoms such as back pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, skin irritation under the breasts, as well as generalized discomfort associated with large breast size. After breast reduction, clothing becomes more manageable and a better physical appearance can result from the accompanying breast lift.
There are multiple options for the incision pattern in a breast reduction. The two most common are an anchor‑based incision and a lollipop‑type incision. All breast reductions remove excess breast (glandular) tissue, fat, and skin, relocate the nipple and areola, and reshape the breast. Liposuction may be needed to remove excess fat from the armpit area. The approach is dictated by your anatomy, and Dr. Haddock will discuss the options and treatment plan with you during your consultation.
Before & After
Three of Dr. Haddock’s patients — before on the left, after on the right.
Individual results vary. Dr. Haddock posts a range of results to give patients a broad range of possible expectations. A large portion of the differences amongst results is a result of the patient anatomy and/or previous treatments. Photos are shared with each patient’s permission.
What can go wrong
After a breast lift
The possible risks include bleeding, infection, temporary or permanent numbness in the nipple or areola, uneven positioning or shape of breasts or nipples, widening of scars, poor incision healing, fluid buildup, breast hardening, damage to or death (necrosis) of breast tissue, and need for revision surgery.
After a breast reduction
The risks for breast reduction surgery are relatively rare and usually minor. These risks may include bleeding, infection, reaction to the anesthesia, small sores around the nipples, slightly mismatched breasts or unevenly positioned nipples, and permanent loss of feeling in the nipple or breast.
After surgery
After a breast lift
A surgical bra is often placed. This soft support bra is worn 24 hours a day for about a month. The breasts are often bruised, swollen, and uncomfortable after surgery, but this will pass in a few days. Any numbness in the breasts and nipples should lessen as swelling subsides.
After a breast reduction
A surgical bra may be used. In some situations surgical drainage tubes for fluid removal are also used. A little pain is normal after surgery. There may be numbness or sensitivity changes that may last for a few months. Swelling, bruising, and slight changes in breast size are also common. Most patients return to work in about one to two weeks. Avoid heavy lifting for four weeks, and allow only gentle contact with the breasts for six weeks. Scars fade with time but will not disappear. All scars can typically be hidden with a bra, bathing suit or low‑cut top.
Printable instructions for your operation and your recovery:
Breast lift and reduction at a glance
Do I go home the same day?
You go home the same day.
How long does a lift or reduction take?
1.5 to 2 hours.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicholas Haddock, October 2026.
Considering a breast lift or reduction?
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