Dr. de Clermont-TonnerrePlastic Surgeon

Paris & Pontoise (95)

Breast Lift

Mastopexy — Ptosis Correction — Paris

Breast ptosis (sagging) is common after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss. A breast lift (mastopexy) repositions the breasts, firms the tissues and recentres the areola to restore a toned, harmonious bust. Performed in Paris by Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre, this procedure can be combined with breast augmentation to correct both shape and volume.

Book an Appointment

Step by step

The Procedure

01

Consultation & assessment

Assessment of the degree of ptosis (Regnault classification), discussion of options: mastopexy alone or with implants, choice of scar technique.

02

Pre-operative assessment

Full breast examination (mammogram/ultrasound), blood tests, anaesthetic consultation. Legal reflection period of 15 days.

03

Surgery

Under general anaesthesia, duration 2 to 3 hours. Reshaping of breast tissue, repositioning of the areola and nipple, removal of excess skin.

04

Hospitalisation

Day case or 1 night depending on the technique. Dressings and supportive bra applied in theatre.

05

Post-operative follow-up

Suture removal at day 10, reviews at 1 month, 3 months and 1 year. Supportive bra worn for 6 weeks.

At a glance

Operating time
2 to 3 hours
Anaesthesia
General
Hospitalisation
Day case or 1 night
Time off work
10 to 14 days
Return to sport
After 6 weeks
Final result
At 6 months

Benefits

  • Repositioned and firmed breasts
  • Recentred, symmetrical areolae
  • Younger, more harmonious silhouette
  • Can be combined with implants or fat transfer
  • Natural results adapted to anatomy
  • Lasting improvement in body image

Risks

  • Visible scars in the early months
  • Altered nipple sensation
  • Residual asymmetry
  • Partial areolar necrosis (rare)
  • Post-operative haematoma or infection
  • Progressive recurrence of ptosis over the long term

French Health Insurance Coverage

An aesthetic mastopexy is not coveredby the Assurance Maladie. It is entirely the patient's responsibility. In certain cases of post-cancer breast reconstruction or documented severe breast asymmetry, partial coverage may be considered on prior agreement.

Expected Results

Mastopexy delivers a younger, well-positioned and harmonious bust. The effect is immediately perceptible once dressings are removed. The definitive result is visible at 6 months, once healing is complete and swelling has resolved.

Longevity of results depends on maintaining a stable weight and the absence of future pregnancies. Daily use of a well-fitting bra is recommended to preserve the outcome.

Résultats

Avant / Après

Breast lift — Mastopexy

Photos de patients du Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre, partagées avec leur accord. Les résultats varient selon les individus et leur morphologie.

Before after breast lift (mastopexy) — frontal view — Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre Paris
Before after breast lift — 3/4 view — Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre Paris
Breast lift (mastopexy) result — Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre
Before/after breast lift — ptosis correction Paris

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a breast lift and breast augmentation?+
A breast lift (mastopexy) repositions and firms sagging breasts without necessarily changing their volume. Breast augmentation increases volume using implants or fat transfer. Both procedures can be combined (augmentation mastopexy) to correct both ptosis and insufficient volume simultaneously.
Are the scars from a breast lift visible?+
Every mastopexy leaves scars. Their extent depends on the degree of ptosis: peri-areolar only for mild ptosis, anchor pattern for more significant ptosis. These scars gradually fade over 12 to 18 months to become very discreet.
Are the results permanent?+
A breast lift delivers lasting results. However, natural ageing, gravity and any future pregnancies may progressively affect the outcome over time. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve long-term results.
Can a breast lift be combined with implants?+
Yes, simultaneous mastopexy and augmentation (augmentation mastopexy) is a common procedure that addresses both ptosis and insufficient volume under a single anaesthetic. Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre assesses at consultation whether this combination is appropriate for your situation.
At what age can a breast lift be performed?+
There is no minimum or maximum age for a breast lift. The procedure can be considered once the breasts are stable and ptosis is established, typically after pregnancies and breastfeeding. Satisfactory general health is required.
How much does a breast lift cost?+
The cost of a mastopexy ranges from approximately €4,000 to €7,000 depending on the technique (peri-areolar, vertical, anchor pattern), complexity and surgical facility. When combined with implants, the total cost increases. Aesthetic mastopexy is not covered by French health insurance, except in cases of post-cancer reconstruction or documented severe asymmetry. A quote is provided at the consultation.
What is breast ptosis?+
Breast ptosis refers to breast sagging. It is classified into 3 grades according to the Regnault classification, based on the position of the nipple relative to the inframammary fold. Grade I: mild ptosis — nipple at the level of the fold. Grade II: moderate ptosis — nipple below the fold. Grade III: severe ptosis — nipple pointing downwards. This classification determines the surgical technique and extent of scarring.
What causes breast sagging?+
Breast ptosis is promoted by several factors: pregnancy and breastfeeding (volume gain then deflation), significant weight loss, skin ageing, initially large breast volume, and the effect of gravity on breast tissue. Repeated weight fluctuations accelerate the loss of skin elasticity. Wearing a well-fitting bra daily can slow the progression of sagging.
Is a breast lift painful?+
Post-operative discomfort is moderate and well controlled with analgesics. It manifests primarily as tension and soreness during the first 5 to 7 days. Heightened nipple sensitivity may persist for a few weeks. Discomfort is generally more pronounced when combined with implants (retropectoral placement). Most patients find the recovery less uncomfortable than anticipated.
Is a special bra required after a breast lift?+
Yes, a supportive, underwire-free bra is prescribed immediately after surgery and worn 24 hours a day for 4 to 6 weeks. It holds the breasts in the correct position during healing and reduces swelling. Daily use of a well-fitting bra is strongly recommended thereafter to preserve long-term results, especially during physical activity.
Can I have a breast lift after a recent pregnancy?+
It is advisable to wait until breastfeeding has ended and breast volume has stabilised before considering a lift — typically 6 to 12 months after the end of breastfeeding. Future pregnancies will alter the result. If you are planning further pregnancies, it is better to wait until your family is complete to have the procedure in the best conditions and preserve the result for as long as possible.
Can a breast lift be combined with liposuction?+
Yes, a breast lift can be combined with other procedures under the same anaesthetic, such as liposuction of the flanks or abdomen. This combination is possible provided the total operating time remains reasonable (generally under 4 hours). Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre assesses feasibility and safety of such a combination at the pre-operative consultation.
Does a breast lift change breast volume?+
A pure breast lift (simple mastopexy) does not change breast volume — it repositions, firms and elevates what is already there. If you also wish to increase volume, a combination with implants or fat transfer is possible. If you wish to reduce volume, a combination with reduction mammaplasty is an option. These possibilities are discussed at the consultation.
When can I drive again after a breast lift?+
Driving is not recommended for 10 to 15 days following surgery, until chest discomfort has subsided and you can manoeuvre without pain. Long-distance driving may require a 3-week wait. The decision is taken at the post-operative review at day 7 or 10, depending on your recovery.
Can French health insurance cover a breast lift?+
A purely aesthetic mastopexy is not covered by the Assurance Maladie. Exceptions exist: in the context of post-cancer breast reconstruction, or documented severe breast asymmetry with asymmetric ptosis, partial coverage may be considered on prior agreement. In all cases, the aesthetic component remains the patient's responsibility. Please enquire at the consultation.

Patient Testimonials

★★★★★

“After two pregnancies and breastfeeding, my breasts had completely lost their shape. The lift performed by Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre changed everything. A natural result and very discreet scars.”

Nathalie

★★★★★

“Excellent surgeon, very professional. The result of my breast lift exceeded my expectations. I finally feel comfortable in my own skin.”

Valérie

★★★★★

“I had hesitated for a long time. I am so glad I consulted Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre. Perfect result, exemplary follow-up.”

Céline

⭐ View all Google reviews

See also

Breast Augmentation→Breast Reduction→Breast Lipofilling→Breast Asymmetry→Breast Reconstruction→Tuberous Breasts & Malformations→Mommy Makeover→All Breast Surgery Procedures→
Book on DoctolibFees & Pricing