Risks By Mayo Clinic Staff Print A breast lift poses various risks, including: Scarring. While scars are permanent, they'll soften and fade within 1 to 2 years. Scars from a breast lift can usually be hidden by bras and bathing suits. Rarely, poor healing can cause scars to become thick and wide. Changes in nipple or breast sensation. Sensation typically returns within several weeks. But some loss of feeling might be permanent. Erotic sensation usually isn't affected. An uneven shape and size of the breasts. This could occur because of changes during the healing process. Also, surgery typically doesn't change breasts that were different sizes before surgery. Partial or total loss of the nipples or areolae. Rarely, the blood supply to the nipple or areola can briefly stop during a breast lift. This can damage breast tissue and lead to the partial or total loss of the nipple or areola. Trouble breastfeeding. While breastfeeding is usually possible after a breast lift, some might have trouble producing enough milk. Like any major surgery, a breast lift poses a risk of bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to the surgical tape or other materials used during or after the procedure. Request an appointment Doctors & Departments July 07, 2022 Print Show references Neligan PC, et al. Mastopexy. In: Core Procedures in Plastic Surgery. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2014. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed June 11, 2018. Breast lift guide. American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/breast/breast-lift-guide/. Accessed June 11, 2018. Breast lift. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift. Accessed June 11, 2018. Doherty G, et al. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. In: Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Surgery. 14th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill; 2014. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed June 11, 2018. What are the risks of breast lift surgery? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/safety. Accessed June 29, 2018. What results should I expect after breast lift surgery? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift/results. Accessed July 5, 2018. Breast liftAboutDoctors&Departments Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceThe Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic PressThe Essential Diabetes BookMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book PRC-20393203 Patient Care & Health Information Tests & Procedures Breast lift