Dr. H. Izmirli - Plastic Surgeon logo

Breast Lift with Implants

Home » Breast Aesthetics » Breast Lift with Implants

With pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or age, the breasts can both lose volume and sag. A breast lift with implants (augmentation mastopexy) lifts the sagging breast while restoring lost fullness with a silicone implant. Dr. Hakki Izmirli plans both procedures in a single operation, aiming for a natural result that suits your body.

“He gave me confidence by explaining how he would approach the operation.”

— Y.B.A. · Google Review (translated from Turkish)

Real Results

Before & After

To protect patient privacy, we do not publish before and after photos on our website. To see breast lift with implants results of patients with a breast shape similar to yours, simply message us on WhatsApp.

Plan Your Procedure

Operation Time

3–4 Hours

Anaesthesia

General Anaesthesia

Hospital Stay

1 Night

Return to Desk Work

5–7 Days

Return to Sport

After 6 Weeks

Overview

What Is a Breast Lift with Implants?

A breast lift with implants combines a breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation in the same operation. Excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped and the nipple and areola are moved higher to an ideal position, while the silicone implant restores lost volume and upper-pole fullness.

A lift alone raises the breast but does not add volume; an implant alone adds volume but does not correct sagging. If the breasts are both sagging and deflated, combining the two procedures gives a perkier, fuller and younger breast shape. The implant and incision technique to be used are decided together with you during the examination.

Benefits of a Breast Lift with Implants
  • Corrects sagging while restoring lost volume
  • Provides fullness in the upper part of the breast (upper pole)
  • Moves the nipple and areola higher to an ideal position
  • Reduces and reshapes enlarged areolas
  • Removes excess skin for a tighter, firmer look
  • Improves symmetry between the two breasts
  • Combines two procedures in one operation, with one anaesthetic and one recovery
  • Restores breast shape changed by pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight loss
  • Helps clothes fit better and boosts confidence
  • Gives long-lasting, natural-looking results

Suitable Candidates

Who Is a Breast Lift with Implants Suitable For?

Who Is It For?

It is suitable for people with both sagging and volume loss in the breasts. It is most often considered when:

  • The breasts are both deflated and sagging after childbirth and breastfeeding
  • Breast volume has decreased and the skin has sagged after weight loss
  • The patient wants a breast that is both perkier and fuller
  • Increased fullness in the upper part (upper pole) is the goal
  • The nipples point downwards and the areolas have enlarged

What Is Expected of Suitable Candidates

  • Good general health
  • Realistic expectations from surgery
  • Being close to your ideal weight
  • No pregnancy planned in the near future
  • Breastfeeding finished at least 6 months ago

If your breast volume is sufficient and the main problem is only sagging, a breast lift without implants may be enough.

How Is a Breast Lift with Implants Performed?

The operation is performed in hospital under general anaesthesia. Through the planned incision, a pocket for the implant is created under the chest muscle (submuscular) or under the breast tissue (subglandular), depending on your anatomy, and the chosen implant is placed.

The lift stage then follows:

  • Excess skin is removed
  • The breast tissue is reshaped and tightened with stitches
  • The enlarged areola is reduced
  • The nipple and areola are moved higher to an ideal position

Finally, the symmetry of both sides is checked and the incisions are closed with aesthetic stitches. The size, shape and profile of the implant are chosen together using measurements taken during the pre-consultation.

Surgical Technique

Which Incision Techniques Are Used?

Periareolar Incision

The incision is made only around the areola. Combined with an implant, it can be preferred for mild sagging; the scar stays around the nipple. However, on its own it does not provide a true lift and is not enough for advanced sagging.

Vertical (Lollipop) Incision

In addition to the incision around the areola, a vertical incision is made down to the breast fold. It is the most commonly used method for moderate sagging; it both lifts the breast and gives it a rounder, firmer shape.

Inverted-T (Anchor) Incision

Made around the areola, along a vertical line and along the breast fold. It is preferred for advanced sagging and excess skin, allowing more skin to be removed. The scar in the breast fold stays hidden under the bra.

Google Reviews

Patient Reviews

4.5 ★★★★★  ·  44 reviews on Google  ·  translated from Turkish

I finally have the nose I had dreamed of for years.

I had rhinoplasty with Dr. Hakki about 6 months ago. Although it was an operation I had put off for years, Dr. Hakki’s approach and reassuring manner overcame all my fears. I had almost no pain after surgery and hardly any bruising. His attentiveness, the way he treats patients and how he kept following up after surgery really give you great confidence. I recommend him wholeheartedly.

— Ş.A.  ★★★★★  Google

It has been 11 years since my surgery. Everything has been perfect from day one.

If you want everything to be just right and to suit you, there are no better hands to trust than those of my dear doctor, Dr. Hakki. I am very grateful to him for giving me a new life, confidence and health.

— A.F.  ★★★★★  Google

I am very happy with my result.

My endless thanks to Dr. Hakki Izmirli, who successfully performed the facelift I had because of a deformity in my face. Care, attention, kindness and success all come together in this wonderful team – I recommend you don’t hesitate to contact them.

— S.T.  ★★★★★  Google

I felt I was in very safe hands.

A good doctor who takes time for his patients and responds to their wishes while remaining professional. I felt I was in very safe hands and I am very happy with the results so far.

— M.A.  ★★★★★  Google

He gave me confidence by explaining how he would approach the operation.

Before the operation he understood my questions and concerns. After a successful operation I could reach him whenever I wanted and was always met with attention and warmth. I thank Dr. Hakki for the care, sincerity and kindness he showed both before and after surgery.

— Y.B.A.  ★★★★★  Google

Surgical Process

During Surgery

Because a breast lift with implants combines two procedures, it takes a little longer than a lift alone – on average 3–4 hours. The necessary blood tests and examinations are done at the hospital on the morning of surgery.

First the implant pocket is created and the implant is placed; then excess skin is removed, the breast is reshaped and the nipple is moved up. After checking symmetry, the incisions are closed with aesthetic stitches.

After surgery you are fitted with a special surgical bra; patients usually stay in hospital for 1 night. To find out the right plan for you, you can book a free pre-consultation.

Recovery

Recovery After a Breast Lift with Implants

The First Weeks

Swelling, tightness, mild pain and tenderness are normal in the first days and are controlled with the medication recommended by your surgeon. The surgical bra is worn at all times.

  • Do not lift heavy objects or strain your arms
  • Avoid sudden arm movements
  • Do not sleep on your front
  • Most people return to desk work within 5–7 days

The Following Months

Because two procedures are performed together, recovery may take a little longer than augmentation or a lift alone. Sport and strenuous exercise can usually be resumed after 6 weeks, with your surgeon’s approval.

As the swelling goes down, the implant settles into place and the breast softens. It takes a few months for the breast to reach its final shape and for the scars to mature. Regular check-ups are important for healthy recovery.

Personalised Planning

With or Without Implants?

Combined with Breast Augmentation

The size and shape of the silicone implant are chosen according to your goals, chest wall structure and skin thickness. In some patients, the lift may be done first and the implant decision made after the breast shape has been assessed. Which path is right for you is evaluated together during the examination. Learn more about breast augmentation.

Is a Lift Alone Enough?

If your breast volume is sufficient and the main problem is sagging, a breast lift without implants also gives the breast a perkier, firmer and younger look. Some patients are happy with the result of a lift alone. Learn more about breast lift.

Results

Scars and Long-Term Results

How Noticeable Will the Scars Be?

Because skin is removed, scarring is unavoidable; however, the incisions are planned to stay under clothing and the bra. Scars that are pinkish-red at first fade over time with scar care and in most patients become inconspicuous. The appearance of the scar depends on the incision technique, your skin type and post-operative care.

Are the Results Permanent?

With a healthy lifestyle, the result of the lift lasts for many years. Because significant weight changes and new pregnancies can affect the result, it is recommended to have the operation when you are close to your ideal weight and not planning a pregnancy soon.

Modern silicone implants usually last 10–20 years; as long as there is no problem, they do not have to be replaced after a set period.

Dr. H. Izmirli - Plastic Surgeon logo

Breast Lift with Implants
Frequently Asked Questions

Does a Breast Lift with Implants Correct Sagging?

Yes. The implant adds volume to the breast, but it is the lift that corrects sagging. Skin stretched by pregnancy, weight loss or age is removed and the breast is raised. Placing an implant alone in a sagging breast does not correct the sagging and may even make it look worse; that is why the two procedures are planned together.

How Long Do the Results Last?

With a healthy lifestyle, the result of the lift lasts for many years. Significant weight gain or new pregnancies can affect the result; that is why the operation is recommended when you are close to your ideal weight and not planning a pregnancy soon. Modern silicone implants usually last 10–20 years; as long as there is no problem such as hardening, deformation or damage, they do not have to be replaced after a set period.

Will a Breast Lift with Implants Leave Scars?

Yes, because skin is removed there will be scars. The incisions are planned to stay under clothing and the bra. Scars that are noticeable at first fade over time with scar care and become less visible.

Can Both Procedures Be Done in One Operation?

In most patients, yes: the breast lift and implant placement are performed in the same operation, with a single anaesthetic and a single recovery period. In some patients, the lift may be done first and the implant decision made after the breast shape has been assessed. The best plan is determined during the examination.

Is the Surgery Painful?

There may be mild to moderate pain, tightness and tenderness after surgery. These are usually controlled with the medication recommended by your surgeon; most patients feel more comfortable after the first few days.

When Can I Return to Work and Sport?

Most people can return to desk work within 5–7 days. Light walks can be started early; for strenuous exercise, weightlifting and sports that strain the upper body, you usually need to wait 6 weeks. The right timing is decided at your check-up.

Are Silicone Implants Safe?

Yes. The cohesive gel silicone implants used today are designed to keep the gel intact even if the outer shell is damaged. The implants used are FDA-approved; nevertheless, regular check-ups are recommended.

How Soon After Giving Birth Can It Be Done?

It can be performed about 6 months after you have finished breastfeeding. If you are planning another pregnancy in the future, it is important to mention this during the pre-consultation; a new pregnancy can affect breast shape again.

Will Nipple Sensation Change?

There may be temporary changes in nipple sensitivity after surgery. In most patients this improves over time; however, the healing process varies from person to person.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Istanbul?

For patients coming from out of town or abroad, a stay of 6–7 days in Istanbul is usually planned for the pre-operative assessment and the first post-operative check-ups. The exact length is determined according to your surgical plan.

Why Dr. Hakki Izmirli for a Breast Lift with Implants?

Dr. H. Izmirli - Plastic Surgeon logo

Begin Your
Journey

Monday – Friday
10:00 – 18:00

© 2026 Dr. Hakki Izmirli. All rights reserved.  |  Privacy Policy