Breast lift (mastopexy) in Turkey: scars, recovery and how long to stay
A breast lift (mastopexy) raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple. It takes 2–3 hours under general anaesthetic, and about a week in Istanbul is typical. It does not add volume unless combined with an implant or fat transfer.
Updated 30/10/2026 · general information, not medical advice
Key facts
Typical ranges for a healthy adult (sources at the bottom of the page). Your surgeon or dentist sets your own plan after examining you.
What it is
The surgeon reshapes the breast tissue, removes excess skin and moves the nipple and areola higher. The scar pattern depends on how much lift is needed: around the areola, around the areola plus a vertical line (“lollipop”), or an anchor shape that also runs in the breast fold.
Techniques
Periareolar
Scar around the areola only, for a minor lift.
Vertical (“lollipop”)
Around the areola and down to the fold, for a moderate lift.
Anchor (inverted T)
Adds a scar in the breast fold, for significant sagging.
With implant
Augmentation-mastopexy, when volume is also wanted.
Who it suits
Usually a good candidate
- Sagging after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
- Nipples pointing downward or below the breast fold
- Stable weight
Think twice / discuss first
- Planning pregnancy or significant weight loss
- Unwilling to accept visible scars
- Smoking (higher risk of wound and nipple healing problems)
Your stay in Istanbul, step by step
- Day 1Consultation and markings.
- Day 2Surgery (2–3 hours), usually one night in hospital.
- Days 3–6Hotel rest, support bra, short walks.
- Days 7–8Check-up before flying.
Recovery timeline
- Weeks 1–2Support bra day and night; desk work around week 2.
- Week 6Exercise usually resumes.
- Months 6–12Shape settles; scars fade over 12–18 months.
Risks and complications
- Visible scars
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Wound-healing problems, especially in smokers
- Asymmetry
- Breastfeeding may be affected
- Recurrent sagging over time
This list is not exhaustive. Your surgeon should explain the risks that apply to you, in writing, before you consent.
Cost: what drives the price
Price depends on the technique, whether an implant is added, the hospital and the package contents. Make sure the quote states whether implants are included and which ones.
Few Istanbul facilities publish prices for this treatment on their own website, and we only show prices that facilities publish themselves. Ask for a written, itemised quote.
Questions to ask the clinic
- Which scar pattern do I need, and why?
- Will I need an implant to get the shape I want?
- How long will the result last?
- What follow-up is included after I return home?
Clinics in Istanbul for this treatment
These 6 Istanbul facilities from our cosmetic surgery list are among the most searched from the UK. Check with each one that it performs this exact procedure, who the surgeon is, and where it takes place.
Acıbadem
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant · Dental treatment
Memorial
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
Medicana
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant · Dental treatment
Esteworld
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
Liv Hospital
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery
Istanbul Aesthetic Center
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
All cosmetic surgery clinics →
Related treatments
Frequently asked questions
Does a breast lift make breasts bigger?
No. It lifts and reshapes; volume needs an implant or fat transfer.
How long should I stay in Istanbul after a breast lift?
About a week, until the first check-up.
Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast lift?
Many women can, but it may be affected. Discuss this with the surgeon if you plan children.
Sources: BAAPS – Breast uplift (mastopexy); NHS – Cosmetic surgery abroad (accessed 30/10/2026).