Breast Lift in Northern Cyprus

The degree of drooping is defined by the position of the nipple-areola complex relative to the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast). In plastic surgery, the Regnault classification is used for this purpose:

• Grade I (mild ptosis): The nipple is level with the inframammary fold. Drooping has begun visually but remains limited.
• Grade II (moderate ptosis): The nipple lies below the inframammary fold but above the lowest point of the breast mound.
• Grade III (severe ptosis): The nipple sits well below the inframammary fold and at the lowest point of the breast tissue — pointing downwards.
• Pseudo-ptosis (false drooping): The nipple is in the correct position, but breast tissue has descended from the lower pole. In this profile, correction of the lower pole alone is often sufficient.
• Glandular ptosis: The nipple is correctly positioned and the skin envelope is largely firm, but breast tissue has descended. A more limited technique may suffice.

Ptosis grade is the primary criterion that determines the choice of incision pattern. During your consultation, marking is performed so that your grade is clearly established and explained.

There are three principal incision patterns in mastopexy. As the degree of drooping increases, so does the amount of skin to be removed — and with it, the extent of the incision. A smaller incision is not always better: a lift performed through an insufficient incision results in poor shape retention and early recurrence.

• Donut (Benelli, periareolar): A circular incision around the areola only. Appropriate for very mild ptosis (Grade I, glandular) where only a small amount of skin needs to be removed. It is a limited technique that does not resolve moderate or severe ptosis on its own. Its advantage is that the scar is concealed at the areola border.
• Lollipop (vertical): An incision that runs from around the areola vertically down to the inframammary fold — resembling a lollipop stick. This is the most widely used pattern globally for a significant proportion of Grade I and Grade II ptosis cases. It leaves a scar around the areola and a vertical line to the inframammary fold, with no additional horizontal scar along the fold.
• Anchor (Wise pattern, inverted T): Areola circumference + vertical line + horizontal line along the inframammary fold — creating an inverted-T incision where the two lines meet. This is the standard technique for Grade III severe ptosis and cases requiring substantial skin removal. It is the most reliable pattern for both breast reduction and advanced mastopexy; whilst the scar is longer, the horizontal segment along the inframammary fold is concealed within the natural crease.

In practice: The vast majority of cases are resolved with lollipop or anchor. The donut technique is effective only in a very select patient profile; claiming to resolve anchor-level ptosis with a donut approach is not clinically realistic. The correct pattern is chosen based on ptosis grade, the amount of excess skin, and the natural limits of the target shape.

Modern mastopexy is not merely about removing skin; it is built on the internal reorganisation of the breast parenchyma (glandular tissue). Removing skin alone (so-called "skin-only mastopexy") may look good in the short term but droops again in the medium term — because skin elasticity is not a durable internal support structure. For this reason, the techniques used at Nis Clinic involve repositioning breast tissue upwards in the lower pole, achieving upper-pole fullness from the parenchyma itself, and preserving long-term internal support tissue.

What this means for you as a patient is the following: the high, full shape you see in the first three months will settle naturally downwards over the six-to-twelve-month "drop and settle" period — this is an expected process. If the internal support has been properly constructed, the shape is maintained; if only skin was pulled, a risk of re-drooping within two to three years is significantly greater.

Drooping frequently accompanies volume loss — particularly after pregnancy and breastfeeding. In this situation, a lift alone leaves a more defined but still small breast with an empty upper pole. If upper-pole fullness is desired, two options exist:

1. Single-session augmentation-mastopexy: An implant is placed and mastopexy is performed in the same operation. Advantages: one anaesthetic, one recovery, one procedure cost. Disadvantage: because two separate procedures are performed together, the cumulative complication risk (wound healing problems, asymmetry, revision requirement) is higher than for either procedure individually. In practice, single-session surgery is possible and frequently chosen; however, it is assessed against each patient's profile.
2. Two separate sessions: Mastopexy first, then augmentation six to twelve months later (or the reverse). Advantages: each stage heals cleanly and planning is flexible. Disadvantages: two separate procedures, two recovery periods, two separate costs.

Which approach is right for you is a technical decision — it is made by evaluating skin thickness, tissue volume, degree of ptosis, asymmetry, and any previous surgical history, and is discussed with you at consultation. Our general approach: a single-session augmentation-mastopexy is reasonable for patients with a limited volume deficit; for those with major volume change combined with severe ptosis, two sessions deliver more reliable outcomes. Recommending single-session surgery to every patient for marketing reasons is to serve the number of procedures, not the patient.

For details on implant sizing and placement options in augmentation-mastopexy, the implant types and plane selection sections on our breast augmentation page are a useful reference.

We offer your first consultation online (Zoom or WhatsApp video call) or in person at our clinic. The majority of patients travelling from abroad or from Türkiye prefer to hold their initial meeting online and attend a detailed in-person assessment before surgery.

During the consultation we discuss:

• Your motivation for mastopexy and your long-term expectations
• History of childbirth, breastfeeding and weight changes
• Family history of breast cancer and breast disease
• Current breast ultrasound or mammography findings (recommended for patients aged 40 and over)
• Current medications (including hormonal therapies and anticoagulants)
• Smoking history and a mandatory cessation plan (discussed in more detail below — smoking is one of the most disruptive variables in mastopexy)
• Chronic health conditions
• Any previous breast surgery
• Pregnancy plans — if you are considering pregnancy in the near future, postponing mastopexy is recommended; we discuss this openly

During your in-person assessment, three measurements are taken: nipple-to-jugular notch distance, nipple-to-inframammary fold distance, and breast base width. These three measurements classify the ptosis grade and determine the appropriate incision pattern. Skin elasticity is assessed with a pinch test; very thin skin that has lost its elasticity carries different healing timelines and recurrence risks.

At the end of the consultation we give you a clear picture: your ptosis grade, the appropriate incision pattern, whether single-session or two-session augmentation-mastopexy is recommended, an approximate cost range, and suitable surgery dates.

On the day before surgery or on the morning of the procedure, detailed marking is performed while you stand upright. This marking defines the new nipple position, areola diameter, the length of the vertical line, and — where required — the boundaries of the horizontal inframammary fold incision.

Three variables are personalised during planning:

1. New nipple position: The projection of the inframammary fold is generally used as the reference. Placing the nipple too high creates a "star-gazing" appearance — a lasting error that is best avoided.
2. Areola diameter: The new areola diameter is typically planned in the 38–42 mm range, personalised according to your body proportions and the current areola condition.
3. Vertical line length: In the lollipop and anchor patterns, the length of the vertical line is determined by the amount of excess skin in the lower pole. Too short a line fails to gather the drooping adequately; too long a line extends below the inframammary fold — neither is desirable.

Planning is the stage that largely determines the outcome of mastopexy. A mastopexy marked correctly before surgery begins accounts for half of the final result.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia with an experienced anaesthetist. The average duration is 2–3 hours for mastopexy alone; augmentation-mastopexy (with implants) extends this to 3–4 hours.

Typical schedule:

• 08:00 — Arrival at clinic, final blood tests, anaesthetic assessment
• 08:30 — Theatre preparation, disinfection, detailed marking review
• 09:00 — General anaesthesia and start of procedure
• 11:00–12:00 — Procedure complete (mastopexy alone); augmentation-mastopexy complete by 12:30–13:00
• Transfer from recovery room to your room; first oral fluids
• Evening — In-clinic observation; most patients are discharged the same day or the following morning

During the procedure the nipple is left on a pedicle of tissue and moved to its new position; this pedicle is the critical structure that preserves the nipple's blood supply and sensation. Pedicle selection (superior, inferior, medial, lateral) is determined by the degree of ptosis and tissue condition. All modern techniques are designed to maintain the viability of the nipple tissue.

Whether a drain is used is decided during the procedure; in many mastopexy cases today, drain-free closure is possible — however, a drain may be preferred when large amounts of skin are removed or when combined with augmentation.

Recovery after mastopexy is more comfortable than most patients expect; pain is typically milder than after breast augmentation because the muscle is not disturbed (except in augmentation-mastopexy). That said, swelling, oedema and the settling of shape take time — patience is essential.

• First 48 hours: Mild to moderate pain and a feeling of tightness are normal. These are managed with prescribed analgesics. Rest with your head elevated in a semi-reclined position. Do not raise your arms above shoulder height.
• Days 3–7: Light daily activity can resume. A specialist post-operative support bra is worn day and night for 4–6 weeks — non-compliance at this stage can lead to recurrence of drooping.
• Days 10–14: Review appointment, suture check and dressing care. Most bruising will have settled. Return to desk-based work is possible within this window.
• Weeks 4–6: Gradual return to upper-body exercise (with your surgeon's approval). Swimming, sauna and heavy lifting are reviewed from this point onwards.
• Month 3: Most swelling has resolved and shape begins to settle. The breast appears high and full at this stage — this is not the final result.
• Month 6: "Drop and settle" — breast tissue naturally positions itself slightly lower and upper-pole fullness becomes more natural. Shape becomes clearer at this stage.
• Month 12: Scar fading is largely complete; colour approaches that of the surrounding skin. Annual review takes place.

We remain in contact with you via WhatsApp throughout every stage. Send us photographs and we will respond to your questions the same day.

Scars appear pink to red during the first three to four months — this is an expected process. Many patients feel anxious at this stage; those who know the timeline accept it as a natural phase. Silicone tape or gel, massage, and strict sun protection for 12 months all support better scar healing. Additional measures are taken for patients with a tendency towards keloid formation.

Related page: Medical tourism packages — transfers, accommodation and follow-up included

The durability of mastopexy outcomes over time depends on three variables: weight stability, pregnancy history, and gravity. No mastopexy can counteract a future pregnancy or a 10 kg fluctuation in weight — that is the physics of soft tissue. Stable weight and a completed family plan (where relevant) are important for preserving results. In patients who have also had augmentation-mastopexy, implant monitoring is part of ongoing care; high-resolution ultrasound or MRI is recommended approximately every five to six years. Routine breast cancer screening (mammography) continues at age-appropriate intervals.

• Patients who have experienced a significant change in breast shape and position after childbirth and breastfeeding, describing loss of shape and position rather than volume loss as their main concern
• Patients following substantial weight loss (for example after bariatric surgery) where breast tissue has been left behind the skin envelope, resulting in a drooping and deflated appearance
• Patients experiencing age-related drooping over the years due to gravity and reduced tissue elasticity
• Patients with natural asymmetry between the two breasts who wish to improve symmetry
• Individuals in good general health, including those with well-controlled chronic conditions
• Patients with realistic expectations — mastopexy lifts and repositions the breast; it does not add significant volume on its own and does not halt the future effects of gravity
• Non-smokers, or individuals who are able to stop smoking for at least 4–6 weeks before surgery

After Childbirth and Breastfeeding — The Most Common Candidate Profile

The most frequent group seeking mastopexy is patients after childbirth and breastfeeding. Our recommendation for this group: wait at least six months after breastfeeding has completely finished. This allows the breast to reach its settled state and hormonal fluctuations to stabilise. Mastopexy performed earlier represents intervention before the result has settled, and increases the likelihood of requiring revision.

• Smoking: The most frequent source of complications in mastopexy. Smoking impairs skin circulation, delays wound healing, significantly increases the risk of partial necrosis of the nipple tissue, and worsens scar quality. Smoking must be stopped at least 4–6 weeks before mastopexy and must not be resumed for 4–6 weeks after surgery. There is no flexibility on this point — because the patient's body bears the risk, not the clinic.
• Active breast cancer or suspicious breast findings: A breast surgery assessment takes priority.
• Uncontrolled chronic conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disease, and cardiac conditions require internal medicine stabilisation first. Uncontrolled diabetes is a critical risk factor for wound healing in particular.
• Autoimmune conditions: A rheumatology consultation is arranged; an individual risk-benefit assessment is carried out.
• Active pregnancy or breastfeeding: Surgery is postponed.
• Planned pregnancy in the near future: We recommend patients who are planning pregnancy shortly to postpone surgery until after childbirth and breastfeeding. Pregnancy after mastopexy is possible, but can largely reverse the aesthetic outcome.
• Unstable weight: Being close to target weight and stable for at least the last six to twelve months is important for result durability. Surgery is postponed for patients expecting a fluctuation of five kilograms or more.
• Suspected body dysmorphic disorder (BDD): Psychiatric support takes priority.
• Previous radiotherapy: Tissue healing may be significantly compromised; specialist assessment is required.

A patient we tell "this is not right for you" is more valuable to us than one we say "yes" to — because an unsuitable procedure serves nobody.

Mastopexy is not merely a technical procedure; it is work built on aesthetic planning, measurement discipline and long-term outcome management. The correct selection of incision pattern, command of the pedicle, parenchymal reorganisation — all of these require an eye shaped by plastic surgery training. Op. Dr. İbrahim Meyzin is a Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery; Cyprus Turkish Medical Association (CTMA), Registration No. 969. He is personally present throughout every procedure; the model of "technicians operate, doctor oversees" is not practised at Nis Clinic. Post-operative follow-up is also supervised by him and his team.

Full academic background, certifications and publications: Op. Dr. İbrahim Meyzin — Doctor Profile

Breast lift surgery is a personal decision that many patients prefer to keep private. Northern Cyprus (TRNC) offers a practical advantage in this respect: one hour fifteen minutes from Istanbul; four to four and a half hours from London by air. Treatment without a visible stamp in your passport. The likelihood of encountering someone you know is very low.

After your procedure, you can spend seven to ten days on the Kyrenia coast — in a calm setting, in mild weather. Quiet surroundings and low stress levels during recovery make a genuine clinical difference; tissue healing and cortisol levels are closely linked.

Our three clinic locations:

• Nicosia — main clinic and consultation centre
• Kyrenia — on the coastline, positioned for medical tourism patients
• Famagusta — serving patients on the eastern side of the island

Breast lift costs vary considerably by clinic, whether augmentation is combined, and by country:

• United Kingdom (mastopexy alone): €6,500–€9,500+
• Türkiye, quality clinics (mastopexy): €3,000–€5,500
• Nis Clinic (Northern Cyprus mastopexy alone): average €4,500–€6,500
• Nis Clinic (single-session augmentation-mastopexy): average €5,500–€7,500

This range varies according to ptosis grade, the chosen incision pattern, whether augmentation is included, implant brand and model (Motiva, Allergan Natrelle, Polytech, etc.) and length of stay. The exact figure, tailored specifically to you, is provided after consultation and assessment. Our package includes airport transfers, 2–3 nights of clinic or hotel accommodation, the procedure, anaesthesia, implant cost (where applicable), medications, a specialist post-operative support bra, review appointments and 12 months of WhatsApp follow-up. There are no hidden charges.

If you are looking not for the cheapest option but for someone with a documented specialism and a commitment to long-term follow-up — you are in the right place.