Approach Planning Techniques Scars Results Your Journey Surgeon FAQ Guides Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey · Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Lift, reshape and restore — mastopexy, tailored to you.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal, MD, FACS, FEBOPRAS — double board-certified plastic surgeon with 15+ years of experience. Breast lift with your own tissue or combined with an implant, individualised to your ptosis grade, with the shortest scar safe for your anatomy.

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FACS
Fellow, ACS
FEBOPRAS
European Board
4.9 ★
45 Reviews
15+
Years Experience
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal at ACS Clinical Congress 2025 — FACS induction ceremony
★★★★★
4.9 / 5.0
Google · 45 patient reviews
The Approach
Why breast lift with Dr. Erdal?

Every mastopexy is individually planned based on your ptosis grade, volume, skin quality and goals. Dr. Erdal's approach prioritises long-term shape, preserved nipple sensation, breastfeeding potential and the shortest scar appropriate to your anatomy.

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    Autologous lift or augmentation-mastopexy

    Lift with your own breast tissue alone, or combined with an implant in the same operation when upper-pole fullness has been lost. The decision is made together at consultation, based on whether you need reshaping, volume, or both.

  • ✓
    Scar pattern matched to your ptosis grade

    Periareolar for grade 1, vertical (lollipop) for grade 2, Wise pattern (anchor) for grade 3 — the shortest scar safe for your anatomy is always chosen. Every incision is placed where it can be hidden by bras and most swimwear.

  • ✓
    Nipple sensation & breastfeeding preserved when possible

    Pedicle-based techniques keep a living connection between the nipple and the underlying gland. Most patients retain normal nipple sensation and the potential to breastfeed.

  • ✓
    Round implants preferred — anatomical where indicated

    When an implant is added, round implants are used in the majority of cases because their shape remains stable regardless of rotation and they integrate predictably with a newly lifted breast. Anatomical (teardrop) implants are reserved for selected cases of mild ptosis with specific shape goals.

  • ✓
    Long-term shape in mind

    Internal support of the breast tissue (shaping from within) and precise pedicle design produce a result that looks good not just at 3 months, but at 3 years. Gravity is accounted for from the start.

  • ★
    Double board-certified & academically published

    Dr. Erdal holds FACS and FEBOPRAS fellowships, with 30+ peer-reviewed publications. He combines surgical expertise with an evidence-based approach.

What determines your plan
The six variables of mastopexy planning

Every breast lift is a combination of decisions. Here is what Dr. Erdal evaluates for you — and why each matters.

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Ptosis Grade

The degree of sagging, assessed using the Regnault classification. Grade 1 (mild) — nipple at the fold. Grade 2 (moderate) — nipple below the fold. Grade 3 (severe) — nipple points downward. Pseudoptosis is a separate pattern of lower-pole laxity without true nipple descent.

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Autologous vs Implant

If skin and volume are both adequate, a pure autologous lift is enough. If upper-pole fullness or total volume has been lost — after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss — an implant is added in the same operation (augmentation-mastopexy) to restore what time has taken.

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Implant Shape

Round implants are preferred in most augmentation-mastopexy cases — their shape is rotation-independent and they integrate predictably with a newly lifted breast. Anatomical (teardrop) implants are considered in selected cases of mild ptosis for specific lower-pole shape goals.

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Incision Pattern

Periareolar (donut) — smallest scar, for grade 1 only. Vertical (lollipop) — around the areola and down to the fold, for grade 2. Wise (anchor / inverted-T) — adds a horizontal line along the fold, for grade 3 and larger reshapes.

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Nipple Repositioning

The nipple-areola complex is repositioned upward on a vascular pedicle that preserves blood supply and sensory nerves. The new position is planned so it sits at the projection point of the breast — typically at the level of the mid-upper arm when standing.

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Long-Term Shape

Internal sutures shape the breast from within to resist gravity. The new nipple position, upper-pole fullness and projection are planned for how they will look at 1 year and beyond — not just the first post-op photograph.

Regnault Classification
Which grade of ptosis do you have?

The degree of breast sagging directly determines the scar pattern required. Understanding your grade helps set realistic expectations before consultation.

Grade 1

Mild Ptosis

Nipple sits at the level of the inframammary fold. Skin laxity is minimal; breast shape is preserved.

Periareolar scar
Grade 2

Moderate Ptosis

Nipple sits below the inframammary fold but still points forward. Noticeable upper-pole deflation.

Vertical (lollipop) scar
Grade 3

Severe Ptosis

Nipple sits well below the fold and points downward. Significant skin excess and reshaping required.

Wise (anchor) scar
Pseudoptosis

Pseudoptosis

Nipple remains above the fold but the lower pole has dropped. Lower-pole laxity without true ptosis.

Vertical or periareolar

Ptosis classification is a clinical guide, not a rigid rule. The final scar pattern depends on skin quality, breast volume and whether an implant is also being placed. Your consultation will clarify which grade applies to you and which technique is most appropriate.

Techniques
Choosing the right technique

Dr. Erdal selects the incision pattern individually for each patient based on ptosis grade, skin quality, volume and aesthetic goals. In his practice, vertical (Lejour / lollipop) and Wise pattern (anchor) are the two most frequently performed techniques — but the best option is always the one tailored to you.

Periareolar · Donut / Benelli

A single scar around the areola only. The shortest scar pattern possible — reserved for grade 1 ptosis with adequate skin elasticity.

  • Smallest, most discreet scar
  • Suitable for grade 1 ptosis only
  • May flatten upper-pole projection over time
  • Areolar size can be refined at the same time

Vertical · Lollipop / Lejour

Scar around the areola and vertically down to the fold — no long horizontal line. The workhorse technique for grade 2 ptosis with good skin quality.

  • Ideal for grade 2 ptosis
  • Shorter scar than Wise pattern
  • Excellent long-term upper-pole projection
  • Preserved nipple sensation and breastfeeding potential

Wise Pattern · Anchor / Inverted-T

The classic anchor-shaped scar: around the areola, vertically to the fold, and horizontally along the fold. The most reliable technique for significant reshaping.

  • Suitable for grade 3 ptosis
  • Maximum skin control and reshaping
  • Reliable, reproducible long-term shape
  • Horizontal scar hidden in the breast fold

Augmentation-Mastopexy

Breast lift combined with implant placement in the same operation. Designed for patients with both sagging and volume loss.

  • Restores upper-pole fullness lost to time
  • Round implants preferred; anatomical for selected mild-ptosis cases
  • Scar pattern chosen as above (usually vertical or Wise)
  • A single operation, single recovery

The "Most Frequently Performed" label reflects the two techniques Dr. Erdal uses most often in his practice — not a universal preference. Every case is evaluated individually, and your anatomy decides which pattern is safest and most effective for you.

Scar Healing
How breast lift scars mature over time

Scars are not finished when the stitches come out. They evolve over 12–24 months, passing through predictable stages. Understanding the timeline helps set expectations and shows why consistent scar-care during the first year is so important.

1

Early Healing

Weeks 0–6

Incisions are red, slightly raised and firm to touch. Taping and a supportive bra are critical. Sutures typically dissolve; wounds are closed.

2

Inflammatory Phase

Months 2–6

Scars may peak in redness and firmness around months 2–4, then begin to soften. Silicone tape or gel is started. Sun protection is essential.

3

Remodelling

Months 6–12

Scars flatten and lighten from red to pink. Scar massage improves pliability. Most patients see a marked aesthetic improvement month by month.

4

Final Maturation

Months 12–24

Scars reach their final appearance — typically a fine, pale line. Further minor improvement may continue until 24 months. Assessment of the result is made at this stage.

Important: Individual scar healing varies with skin type, tension at the incision, genetics and scar-care compliance. Scars never disappear entirely — the goal is a fine, well-placed, pale line that blends with surrounding skin. Dr. Erdal provides a detailed scar-care protocol (silicone, taping, massage, sun protection) and monitors progress at each follow-up.
Before & After
Real patient results

Breast lift results by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal. Cases include both autologous mastopexy (no implants) and augmentation-mastopexy (with implants). All patients photographed from front, oblique and lateral angles. Nipple areas are covered to protect patient identity. Tap any image to enlarge.

All patient photographs are used only with explicit written consent. All cases performed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal. Individual results vary — your consultation will clarify what is realistic for your anatomy and ptosis grade.

Your Istanbul Journey
End-to-end care, from first contact to home

Every international patient receives a fully coordinated experience — not just surgery, but a seamless journey.

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01

Free Video Consultation

Share your photos (frontal and lateral views) and a brief description of your goals via WhatsApp or the contact form. Dr. Erdal personally reviews your case. A free video consultation is scheduled within 24 hours. You'll receive a personalised recommendation including technique, scar pattern, whether an implant is advised, and realistic outcome.

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02

Transparent & Affordable Pricing

You receive a clear, all-inclusive quote with no hidden costs. Surgery fee, hospital stay, pre-op tests, implant (if added) and aftercare materials are all covered — no surprises on the day.

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03

VIP Airport Pickup

A private transfer meets you at Istanbul Airport upon arrival and takes you directly to your accommodation. No taxis, no stress, no language barriers.

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04

Hotel Coordination

We coordinate your stay at Antwell Suites İstanbul — a premium recovery-friendly residence close to the clinic, with full kitchen, spacious rooms and marble bathrooms.

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05

Pre-Op Day

The day before surgery: comprehensive pre-operative blood tests at an A+ accredited hospital, anaesthesiology consultation, and an in-person consultation with Dr. Erdal — including pre-operative marking of your scar pattern and final discussion of your surgical plan.

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06

Surgery Day

Breast lift performed by Dr. Erdal under general anaesthesia at an A+ accredited hospital. Surgery typically takes 2–3 hours for an autologous lift, and 3–4 hours when an implant is added. One to two nights hospital stay is included for comfort and monitoring.

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07

Post-Op Follow-Ups

Daily check-ups with Dr. Erdal's team during your stay in Istanbul. Surgical bra fitted, wound checks, tape changes and personalised recovery guidance at each visit. Your post-operative surgical bra, medical tapes and scar-care starter kit are provided free of charge.

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08

Return Home — Day 5–7

Most breast lift patients fly home on day 5–7. Dr. Erdal performs a final check-up and provides detailed aftercare instructions, including a full scar-care protocol for the 12–24 month maturation window. If you'd like to stay longer, Istanbul is a wonderful city to explore. After returning home, photo & video follow-ups are scheduled at 1 month, 3 months and 1 year, with unlimited WhatsApp support throughout.

Antwell Suites İstanbul — Your recovery residence

Premium 1+1 suite aparthotel · Close to clinic · Fully equipped for recovery

Antwell Suites features a small clinic on the ground floor, allowing early post-operative follow-up appointments to be conducted right at the hotel — so you can recover in maximum comfort without unnecessary travel.

Antwell Hotel Istanbul exterior Antwell Hotel living room Antwell Hotel bedroom
1+1 Suite Full kitchen Separate bedroom Large bathroom Close to clinic Recovery-friendly Daily housekeeping

🤝 Companions are warmly welcome. Having a companion is particularly helpful after breast lift, since lifting is restricted in the first days. Your companion stays in the same 1+1 suite with you and uses the VIP transfer vehicle — at no extra charge.

Your Surgeon
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal
Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal — Plastic Surgeon Istanbul Dr. Erdal — ACS Clinical Congress 2025, FACS Induction

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal

MD, FACS, FEBOPRAS · Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

  • Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS) — inducted ACS Clinical Congress 2025
  • FEBOPRAS — Fellow, European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
  • Associate Professor — Plastic Surgery, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine
  • International training: Memorial Sloan Kettering (USA) & Ghent University Hospital (Belgium)
  • 15+ years of surgical experience with thousands of breast and body contouring procedures
  • Award-winning surgeon: ISAPS World Congress 2023 — Gold & Bronze Award
  • 30+ peer-reviewed publications in international journals
  • Member of ACS, ASPS, ISAPS, EBOPRAS & TPRECD
  • Ministry of Health — International Health Tourism Authorization
  • English consultation · direct surgeon communication · no third-party agents

"A good mastopexy doesn't just look right at three months — it holds its shape at three years. The scar pattern, the pedicle, the internal support and, when needed, the right implant all have to work together."

— Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Işık Erdal, MD, FACS, FEBOPRAS
ACS FACS, ASPS, ISAPS, EBOPRAS, TPRECD
The Team
Personal care, from first contact
Dr. Erdal and clinic coordinator

A dedicated team for international patients

From your very first inquiry to your post-operative follow-up, our team ensures you feel fully supported at every step. Our clinic coordinator personally manages all international patient communication — consultation scheduling, travel guidance and ongoing remote follow-up after you return home.

All communication is conducted in English. We respond to WhatsApp and email inquiries within 24 hours, seven days a week. No third-party agencies — direct surgeon communication at every stage.

Peer-Reviewed Research
30+ publications in leading international journals

Dr. Erdal is an active researcher with work published in Annals of Plastic Surgery, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Facial Plastic Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and ISAPS journals.

Patient Reviews
What patients say

All reviews sourced directly from Google. 4.9 stars · 45 verified reviews.

★★★★★

"As someone terrified of surgery, choosing Dr. Erdal was the best decision of my life. From the very first consultation, the confidence he gave me left all my fears behind. I am incredibly happy with my results — natural and exactly what I hoped for."

B.A.
Google Review · 5 stars
★★★★★

"I had an excellent experience and couldn't be happier with the entire process and results. From the first consultation, I felt listened to, understood, and genuinely cared for. The results look natural, balanced, and exactly what I hoped for — better than I imagined. A true artistic eye."

M.D.
Google Review · 5 stars
★★★★★

"Dr. Erdal is incredibly attentive both before and after surgery. A surgeon with whom you will feel completely safe. He explains the entire process in detail beforehand. His new clinic is bright and beautiful. I highly recommend him."

S.A.
Google Review · 5 stars
★★★★★

"Dr. Erdal performed my surgery 2.5 years ago. I am truly satisfied with both the result and his care. Despite being an anxious person, he patiently answered all my questions. The result is very natural and suits my body perfectly."

Y.D.
Google Review · 5 stars
★★★★★

"I met Dr. Erdal and simply said 'I trust you completely.' Not a single person has guessed I had surgery. He is a master of his craft — patient, warm, and exceptional. The result changed my confidence entirely."

G.K.
Google Review · 5 stars
★★★★★

"Everything from consultation to post-op was perfectly organized. The hospital was modern and clean. Dr. Erdal's calm and professional demeanor made me feel safe throughout. Absolutely worth travelling to Istanbul for."

L.M.
Google Review · 5 stars
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Breast lift in Turkey costs significantly less than in the US, UK or Europe — typically 50–70% less — while maintaining the same quality of care and surgical expertise. Dr. Erdal provides a transparent, all-inclusive quote after your free consultation. The fee covers surgery, hospital stay, pre-operative tests, surgical bra, scar-care starter kit and aftercare. If an implant is added (augmentation-mastopexy), the implant cost is included in the quote.
A breast lift can be performed either with your own breast tissue alone (autologous mastopexy) or combined with an implant (augmentation-mastopexy). The choice depends on whether volume has been lost — for example after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss. If skin and volume are both adequate, an autologous lift is enough. If upper-pole fullness or overall volume is missing, adding an implant restores what has been lost in the same operation.
In augmentation-mastopexy, round implants are preferred in most cases because their shape remains stable regardless of implant rotation and they integrate predictably with a newly lifted breast. Anatomical (teardrop) implants are considered in selected cases of mild ptosis where a more natural lower-pole projection is desired. Dr. Erdal discusses the trade-offs at consultation and selects the shape best suited to your anatomy and goals.
The scar pattern is matched to the degree of ptosis. Grade 1 (mild) ptosis may be treated with a periareolar (donut) scar around the areola only. Grade 2 (moderate) ptosis typically requires a vertical (lollipop) scar — around the areola and down to the fold. Grade 3 (severe) ptosis needs a Wise (anchor / inverted-T) scar that also runs along the breast fold. The shortest scar pattern safe for your anatomy is always chosen.
Scars mature gradually over 12–24 months. In the first 6 weeks they are red and slightly raised. Between 3 and 6 months they begin to soften and turn pink. Between 6 and 12 months they flatten and lighten. Their final appearance — a fine, pale line — is typically reached at 12–18 months, and may continue to improve until 24 months. Scar-care protocols (silicone tape, sun protection, massage) have a measurable effect during this window.
Good candidates are women whose nipples sit at or below the breast fold (grade 1–3 ptosis), or whose breasts have lost shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight change or ageing. Candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to stop for surgery), with stable weight and realistic expectations. Women planning future pregnancies are usually advised to postpone lift surgery until after their family is complete.
Pedicle-based lift techniques keep a living connection between the nipple and the underlying tissue, preserving nerve supply. Most patients retain normal nipple sensation. Temporary reduction in sensation for 3–6 months is common as nerves heal. Permanent partial numbness occurs in a minority of patients.
Pedicle-based techniques keep the nipple connected to glandular tissue, so breastfeeding potential is preserved for most patients. Full feeding cannot be guaranteed (even without surgery), but the majority of patients who attempt to breastfeed after mastopexy are able to do so to some degree.
Both operations reshape the breast, but a reduction also removes a significant volume of glandular tissue to relieve symptoms caused by heavy breasts. A lift (mastopexy) primarily removes excess skin and repositions the nipple-areola complex without major tissue removal. Every reduction includes a lift; not every lift includes a reduction.
A well-planned lift produces a lasting result. Some gradual settling in the first year is normal and expected. Long-term shape is influenced by skin quality, weight fluctuations, pregnancy after surgery, and ageing. Maintaining stable weight, wearing a supportive bra during exercise, and avoiding pregnancy in the early post-operative years helps preserve the result. Adding a small implant in selected cases can also improve long-term upper-pole fullness.
Most patients return to light daily activities within 7–10 days. Office work can typically be resumed within 2 weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6 weeks. The surgical bra is worn day and night for 6 weeks. The breasts continue to settle into their final shape over 6–12 months; scars mature over 12–24 months.
Most patients stay 5–7 days in Istanbul. This allows for pre-operative preparation, surgery, post-operative follow-ups and a final check-up before flying home. If an implant is added or the lift is combined with another procedure, a slightly longer stay may be recommended.
Augmentation-mastopexy is a breast lift combined with implant placement in the same operation. It is designed for women who have both sagging and volume loss — typically after pregnancy, breastfeeding or significant weight loss. It restores upper-pole fullness while also lifting the breast and repositioning the nipple. Round implants are preferred in most cases; anatomical implants are considered for selected mild-ptosis cases.
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, wound healing problems, asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation, unfavourable scarring, and — rarely — partial or complete nipple-areola compromise in severe ptosis. When an implant is added, specific risks include capsular contracture and implant malposition. Serious complications are uncommon. Dr. Erdal discusses all risks openly during consultation.
Dr. Erdal operates in fully accredited A+ hospitals in Istanbul and holds the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health International Health Tourism Authorization. He is double board-certified (FACS and FEBOPRAS) with 15+ years of surgical experience in breast surgery.
Yes. A lift is commonly combined with implants (augmentation-mastopexy) to restore volume, with a reduction when mild excess tissue is also present, or with liposuction or abdominal procedures under the same anaesthetic when medically safe. Dr. Erdal evaluates whether combining procedures is appropriate during your consultation.
Dr. Erdal holds dual international fellowships (FACS and FEBOPRAS), has 30+ peer-reviewed publications, won Gold and Bronze at ISAPS World Congress 2023, and maintains a 4.9-star rating across 45 patient reviews. He provides direct surgeon communication at every stage — no agents or third parties — and operates only at A+ accredited hospitals.
Dr. Erdal operates at fully accredited A+ hospitals in Istanbul. Post-operative follow-ups can also be conducted at the clinic located on the ground floor of Antwell Suites, where patients stay during their recovery — offering maximum comfort and convenience.
Breast lift is performed under general anaesthesia at an A+ accredited hospital. A pre-operative anaesthesiology consultation is included the day before surgery to ensure your safety and comfort.
Absolutely — companions are warmly welcome. Having a companion is particularly helpful after breast lift, since lifting is restricted in the first days. Your companion stays in the same 1+1 suite at Antwell Suites and uses the VIP transfer vehicle — at no extra charge.
Dr. Erdal provides an all-inclusive package covering surgery, hospital stay (1–2 nights), pre-operative blood tests, post-operative surgical bra, medical tapes, scar-care starter kit, VIP airport transfer, hotel coordination and all follow-up appointments during your stay in Istanbul. If an implant is added, its cost is included in the quote. There are no hidden costs.
Revision after mastopexy is uncommon but may occasionally be needed for scar refinement or minor asymmetry. Dr. Erdal provides ongoing support and follow-up. Any concerns are addressed openly, and a personalised plan is discussed with you. Your wellbeing and satisfaction are always the priority.
Patient Guides
Learn more about breast lift

In-depth guides written by Dr. Erdal to help you make an informed decision.

Breast Lift Cost in Turkey (2026 Guide) → Mastopexy Techniques — A Patient's Guide → Breast Lift Scars — Healing Timeline & Care → Breast Lift Recovery Timeline → Augmentation-Mastopexy — Lift With Implants → Turkey vs. UK & Europe — Honest Comparison →
Get in Touch
Start your consultation today

Our team responds within 24 hours. Send photos (frontal and lateral views) directly via WhatsApp for the fastest initial assessment. Free video consultation available.

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+90 544 850 72 32
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Location
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Official Authorization
Ministry of Health certified for international patients

Dr. Erdal's clinic holds the official International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate issued by the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health — ensuring quality, safety and legal compliance for international patients.

International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate — Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health

Certificate No: 2026034015610080000444996 · Issued: 10.03.2026 · Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health, General Directorate of Health Services