What is mastopexy, and how is it different from breast augmentation?
Mastopexy repositions breast tissue and removes excess skin to correct the sagging (ptosis) that often accompanies significant weight loss. It's important to understand that its goal is to lift and firm, not necessarily to add volume — which is why, in many post-bariatric cases, mastopexy is performed without an implant, using the patient's own remaining tissue.
When is it combined with an implant?
When, in addition to sagging, there's significant volume loss that the remaining tissue can't compensate for, a mastopexy with implant may be considered. This decision depends entirely on each patient's anatomy, expectations, and tissue condition, and is defined during an in-person (or video) evaluation — there's no single standard for every case.
Who is a candidate?
In general, it's recommended to wait until weight is stable before this procedure, since further weight fluctuations can affect the result. Overall health status is also relevant, and for patients planning future breastfeeding, this is a point that should be discussed openly with the surgeon.
Recovery
Initial recovery involves wearing a special post-surgical bra, temporary restriction of upper-body strain, and periodic healing check-ins. As with every procedure in the HENKO program, follow-up doesn't end at surgery — it continues with the multidisciplinary team through full recovery, including remote check-ins once you've returned home.