What It Is

Anchor mastopexy, also known as the Wise pattern breast lift, is a surgical procedure designed to correct severe breast sagging (ptosis). It is the most comprehensive form of breast lift, suitable for patients with significant drooping, stretched skin, or enlarged areolas.

The incision pattern resembles an anchor: around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the inframammary fold. This allows the surgeon to remove large amounts of excess skin, reshape the breast tissue, and reposition the nipple-areola complex for a firmer, youthful contour. In Korea, surgeons often combine this procedure with implants or fat transfer if patients also want to restore volume.

Why It’s Done

Patients choose anchor mastopexy because:

• They have severe sagging that cannot be corrected by periareolar or vertical techniques.
• The nipples point downward or sit well below the breast crease.
• They want to correct stretched areolas or asymmetry.
• They want long-lasting, dramatic improvement in breast shape and projection.

Good candidates include:

• Women with significant sagging after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or major weight loss.
• Patients seeking both functional improvement and aesthetic refinement.
• Those in good general health with realistic expectations.

Alternatives

• Periareolar mastopexy for mild sagging.
• Vertical mastopexy (lollipop lift) for moderate sagging.
• Augmentation with implants or fat transfer to improve volume, sometimes combined with a lift.
• Non-surgical tightening: Limited effect, not suitable for advanced sagging.

Preparation

Before anchor mastopexy in Korea, patients will:

• Have breast measurements, photos, and possibly 3D imaging for surgical planning.
• Undergo imaging (mammogram or ultrasound) if recommended.
• Stop smoking and alcohol 4 weeks prior to surgery.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements.
• Arrange recovery support and postoperative follow-up.

How It’s Done

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used.
• Incisions: Around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the crease.
• Reshaping: Excess skin is removed, breast tissue is lifted and reshaped, and the nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher.
• Closure: Sutures are placed along incision lines, and dressings or support bras applied.
• Duration: 2–4 hours, usually outpatient.

Recovery

• First week: Swelling, bruising, and soreness are common; a surgical bra is worn continuously.
• Stitches: Removed or dissolved within 7–14 days.
• Return to activities: Light duties in 1–2 weeks; strenuous activity avoided for 4–6 weeks.
• Final results: Breasts appear lifted, firmer, and more youthful within 2–3 months, with scars maturing and fading over 12–18 months.

Possible Complications

• Noticeable scarring (though typically improved with Korean scar-minimization techniques).
• Asymmetry between breasts.
• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation.
• Delayed healing or infection.
• Rare risks: necrosis of nipple tissue, poor wound healing, or recurrence of sagging.

Treatment Options in Korea

Diagnosis

Korean surgeons use clinical examination, 3D simulations, and breast imaging to evaluate sagging severity and plan the ideal mastopexy approach.

Medical Treatments

• Non-surgical methods such as bras or mild tightening for patients not ready for surgery (limited benefit).

Surgical or Advanced Therapies

• Anchor mastopexy for severe sagging and reshaping.
• Combined mastopexy with implants or fat transfer for patients desiring both lift and volume.
• Revision mastopexy for patients with prior unsatisfactory results.

Rehabilitation and Support

• Scar care with silicone gels, laser treatments, or microneedling.
• Long-term follow-up to ensure results are stable.
• Nutritional and lifestyle guidance to maintain breast shape.
• International patients benefit from Korea’s breast surgery expertise, advanced scar-minimizing methods, and multilingual aftercare services.