Breast lift in Zurich

Both changes are often described in the same way in everyday life, but they require different procedures. If volume is lacking while the tissue position is stable, augmentation is more likely to be appropriate. If the tissue has descended, additional volume alone will usually not change the shape satisfactorily.

Often both components are present at the same time. The examination clarifies which one predominates and which approach fits.

After pregnancy and breastfeeding

Glandular tissue and the skin envelope change during pregnancy and breastfeeding. After weaning, a stretched skin envelope and altered volume often remain. Planning makes sense once the findings have been stable for several months.

After weight loss

After significant weight loss, excess skin is usually the main concern. A weight that has been stable for a longer period is a prerequisite.

Skin quality and tissue position

Elasticity, thickness and the load-bearing capacity of the skin determine how much stability can be expected after a lift. Thin, less elastic skin limits the result.

Position of the nipple

The position of the areola in relation to the inframammary fold is the most important individual finding. It largely determines whether a lift is necessary and which incision pattern is suitable.

Breast volume

A very small remaining volume leads to a smaller, shaped breast after the lift. Anyone who also wants volume must plan this separately.

Fullness in the upper area

A lift repositions tissue but does not create new tissue. Marked and lasting fullness in the upper breast cannot be guaranteed; some of the initial fullness subsides again during healing.

Lift without an implant

Provided there is sufficient natural volume, a lift alone changes position and shape — without an implant and without its long-term considerations.

Lift with an implant

A combination can be appropriate when tissue has descended and volume is lacking at the same time. It is more complex, places greater strain on the tissue and is not automatically the better solution.

When an implant alone is sufficient

With only slightly altered nipple position and a good skin envelope, an implant alone may be sufficient. The distinction is made during the examination, not from photos.

Periareolar scar

An incision around the areola. Suitable for a minor lifting requirement; the change in shape is limited.

Vertical scar

A scar around the areola and vertically down to the inframammary fold. Allows more pronounced shaping with a moderate lifting requirement.

Inverted T or anchor scar

Additionally a scar in the inframammary fold. Necessary with marked excess skin and a greater height correction.

How the pattern is chosen

Decisive factors are the excess skin, the necessary upward movement of the nipple, volume and tissue quality. A smaller incision pattern is not a mark of quality — it must suit the findings.

Asymmetry

Differences between the sides in size, shape and nipple position are common and are considered in planning. An approximation is possible; complete symmetry cannot be planned.

Planning includes your medical history, a clinical examination, measurements, an assessment of skin quality and glandular tissue, and a discussion of the desired result and its limitations. A current breast examination and, where appropriate, imaging are prerequisites.

You receive a written summary and a conscious period for reflection.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, usually with a short inpatient stay. After surgery, the wound conditions and the blood supply to the areola are checked.

Work

Sedentary work is often possible again after one to two weeks, physically demanding work considerably later. The timing is determined individually.

Sport

Light movement early; endurance and strength training in stages over several weeks after medical clearance.

Lifting children

Lifting strains the operated region. Plan for support in everyday life at first; clearance is given individually.

Scar maturation

Scars fade over months. The final appearance can be assessed no earlier than about a year and depends on wound healing and predisposition.

Breastfeeding

The ability to breastfeed can be affected by the procedure. If you wish to have children, this is discussed before planning.

Wound healing

Postoperative bleeding, infection, wound healing problems and delayed healing are possible, particularly where the scars meet. Smoking markedly increases this risk.

Asymmetry

Differences in shape, height and the course of scars may remain or newly appear.

Recurrent descent

Tissue and skin continue to change. Renewed descent over the years is possible and is not a sign of a faulty procedure.

Further risks

Changes in sensation of the nipple and skin, impaired blood supply to the areola, contour irregularities and conspicuous scarring are possible. Full information is provided in the personal consultation.

Revision procedures

Corrections of scars, shape or differences between the sides may become necessary. They are assessed no earlier than after healing is complete.

The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. If you subsequently book an operation with us, the consultation fee is credited in full against the price of the operation. Following the examination, you will receive an individual cost breakdown that clearly states which services are included.

• Dr. med. Michael W. Payne

  Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

• Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer

  Specialist in Surgery

• Breast surgery in Zurich — overview
• Breast lift or implant — decision guide
• The breast after pregnancy and breastfeeding — decision guide
• Breast asymmetry — decision guide
• Breast augmentation
• Breast reduction
• Insights — breast

The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.

The consultation process

1. 01

   Discussion

   We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.

2. 02

   Examination

   A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.

3. 03

   Options

   Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.

4. 04

   Time to reflect

   You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.