The Baby One More Time star barely managed to strut her stuff to her new single Gimme More in a skimpy outfit, consisting of a sparkly black bra and briefs with a matching pair of black boots.
The performance, which was billed as the return from a career break which began in 2004, did not see the singer engage in some of the wild stunts usually seen during her performances at the video music awards.
Instead the singer selected what MTV described as "a James Bond meets underground S&M club slither" as she teased dancers, wearing tight leather outfits and performing on strip poles.
Images of chandeliers and silhouettes were displayed on the screen as she sang Gimme More, which will feature on her fifth album due for release in November.
Commentators described the star's performance as low-key given her previous performances at the awards show, which have seen her kiss Madonna and play with a live snake.
Comedian Sara Silverman, hosting the segment after the performance, said: "Was that incredible? She is amazing. She is 25-years-old and she's already accomplished everything she's going to accomplish in her life. It's mind blowing."
Spears' stage comeback follows a difficult year which has seen the star shave her head and attack photographers with an umbrella. She is currently involved in court proceedings for custody of her two children with ex-husband Kevin Federline. 
