Mastopexy (or breast-lift) is a procedure in which breast ptosis (sagging bust) is corrected in shape and position. The breasts are made rounder and elevated, maintaining the nipple/areola complexes in position. Mastopexy may be combined with insertion of breast implants for augmentation if the breast volume is particularly reduced. Under general anaesthetic (only in the mildest cases can local anaesthetic and medical sedation be used instead), an incision is made in the skin. If the ptosis is minimal, the incision is only around the periphery of the areola (round block incision). If the ptosis is moderate then the incision is made around the periphery of the areola and vertically down to the inframammary fold where the breast joins the chest (key hole incision). A very short horizontal cut can also be added along the inframammary fold, in severe cases of ptosis. Excess skin is removed and the fibroglandular tissue of the breast is repositioned higher up, thus creating a rounder form. This procedure is always preceded by ultrasonography and/or radiology exams in order to exclude the possibility of existing pathologies.