It’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if this procedure is the right choice for your aesthetic goals and unique anatomy.
What is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
The medical term for Breast Lift surgery is Mastopexy. The procedure involves the reshaping and lifting of breasts.
Ptotic breasts/Breast Ptosis
Breast ptosis, commonly known as breast sagging or drooping, is a condition that occurs when breast tissue and nipples shift downward. It can be caused by factors such as:
- Ageing
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Weight fluctuations
- And, genetics.
There are several different grades of Breast ptosis depending on the extent of sagging, with higher grades indicating more pronounced drooping.
What are the Potential Outcomes?
The are several potential outcomes of Breast Lift (Mastopexy) surgery, including:
- Altered Breast Contour: A breast lift (mastopexy) may change the shape, position, and firmness of the breasts.
- Corrected Ptosis:The procedure may help lift the breast tissue and reposition the nipples to a more prominent position.
- Restored Nipple Position:Nipples that have descended due to sagging can be repositioned to a more central location on the breast mound.
- Customisable Results:Surgeons can tailor the procedure to the patient’s specific needs and goals.
- Visible Results:A breast lift (mastopexy) may last for years, although natural ageing and other factors may affect the longevity of results.
A Breast Lift with implants/Augmentation Mastopexy, also offers potential aesthetic outcomes including:
- Breast Shape: The procedure addresses both breast ptosis (sagging) and loss of volume.
- Customised Results: The surgeon tailors the procedure to achieve your desired breast size, shape, and position.
- Symmetry: Implants may help address the appearance of breast asymmetry, aiming that both breasts are more evenly sized and positioned.
- Desired Cleavage: Augmentation with implants may increase the appearance of cleavage, which can further address the aesthetic outcome of the procedure.
- Comprehensive Transformation: Women who have experienced significant changes in their breasts due to factors natural factors like; pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing may achieve a more comprehensive result.
Potential Health-related outcomes
While the primary goal of a Breast Lift is to address the aesthetic appearance of the breasts, there can be some potential health-related outcomes, including;
- Improved Posture: Breast ptosis (sagging) can contribute to poor posture as individuals may unconsciously round their shoulders to compensate for the weight of the breasts.
- A breast lift with implants (mastopexy) may help lift the breasts to a more natural position, potentially improving posture.
- Reduced Skin Irritation: Excessive breast ptosis can lead to skin irritation and chafing beneath the breasts, especially in the crease where the breast meets the chest.
- A breast lift may alleviate this discomfort by lifting the breasts and reducing skin-to-skin contact.
- Enhanced Physical Activity: Women with sagging breasts may find certain physical activities or exercises uncomfortable due to breast movement and discomfort.
- A breast lift with implants (mastopexy) can provide greater support and reduce breast movement during physical activities.
- Potential Relief from Back and Neck Pain: For some women, overly large or sagging breasts can contribute to chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain.
- A breast lift with implants (mastopexy) may alleviate some of these discomforts by reducing the weight and strain on the upper body.
It’s important to have a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if a breast lift (mastopexy) is the right choice for your individual circumstances and goals.
Download the Checklist for Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery
Am I a Suitable Candidate?
Mastopexy Surgery may be suitable for you if you:
- Have Breast Ptosis Individuals who experience breast sagging (ptosis),
- Have Volume Loss:Individuals who experience breast sagging (ptosis) and a loss of breast volume, often due to factors like pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing.
- Desire for Changed Breast Size and Shape:Those who wish to achieve not only a lifted breast appearance but also desire an increase in breast size, fullness, and projection.
- Are in Good Overall Health:Candidates should be in good general health, free from underlying medical conditions that might increase the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia.
- Have a Stable Weight:It’s important for candidates to have a stable weight, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the long-term results of the procedure.
- Have Realistic Expectations:Candidates should have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes of Augmentation Mastopexy.
- Are a Nonsmoker:Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking for a specified period before and after the surgery. Smoking can impede the healing process and increase surgical risks.
- Have Completed Childbearing:It’s advisable for candidates to have completed their plans for having children, as future pregnancies and breastfeeding can impact the long-term results of the procedure.
A qualified and highly experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon like those at Coco Ruby will be able to advise which procedure is likely to work best for you to achieve the surgical results you are after.
What Can I Expect During Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery?
A Mastopexy procedure varies from patient to patient, whether this surgery is with or without implants. The procedure typically follows the following steps:
Consultation and Pre-operative Planning
Once you have gotten a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) you can organise a meeting with your plastic surgeon for a thorough consultation. During this consult you will discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, medical history, and expectations. The surgeon will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin quality, nipple position, and other factors to create a personalized surgical plan.
If it is determined that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and you decide to proceed, the surgery will generally proceed with the following steps.
Anesthesia
Prior to your breast lift surgery, an anesthetist will administer a combination of medications and general anesthesia. They will also closely monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
Incision Placement
The surgeon will make carefully planned incisions based on the chosen technique, which could include around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes along the breast crease itself.
Reshaping the Breast Tissue
The Breast Lift component involves removing excess skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a more elevated position.
Implant Placement (If required)
Your surgeon will guide you through the selection process before surgery, considering factors such as implant type, size, shape, and profile.
During the procedure, the surgeon will create a pocket within the breast tissue to accommodate the breast implants. Implants can be placed either above the chest muscle (subglandular), below the muscle (submuscular) or Dual-plane (partly above and partly below the muscle). Implant placement, depends on factors like implant size, your body type, and the surgeon’s expertise (this will also be discussed and decided prior to surgery).
Closing Incisions
Incisions are meticulously closed with sutures. These sutures may be traditional or absorbable, depending on the technique used. Dissolvable sutures may be layered within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts.
Some incision lines resulting from breast lift are concealed in the natural breast contours; however, others may be visible on the breast surface. Many women desire the smallest scar possible. However, an experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon will recommend the incisions that best suit your particular needs and customise your surgery accordingly.
Dressing and Bandages
Dressings or bandages are applied to support the healing process and protect the incisions.
Recovery/Postoperative Care
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your condition as you wake up from anesthesia.
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions for postoperative care, including information about pain management, wound care, and any necessary follow-up appointments. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance for a smooth recovery.
Swelling and bruising are normal and will gradually subside. Over time, your breasts will settle into their new position, and you will begin to enjoy the benefits of your breast lift surgery.
Remember that each patient’s experience and procedure details will vary based on individual anatomy and surgical preferences. It’s essential to have a comprehensive discussion with your board-certified plastic surgeon to fully understand the procedure, potential outcomes, and recovery process.
Although Augmentation Mastopexy is tailored to the individual the procedure typical follows the following steps;
Consultation and Pre-operative Planning
Once you have gotten a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) you can organise a meeting with your plastic surgeon for a thorough consultation. During this consult you will discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, medical history, and expectations. The surgeon will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin quality, nipple position, and other factors to create a personalized surgical plan.
If it is determined that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and you decide to proceed, the surgery will generally proceed with the following steps.
Anesthesia
You will receive general anesthesia for the procedure, which will be administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist. Your vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
Incision Placement
The surgeon will make carefully planned incisions based on the surgical technique and desired outcomes. Common incision options include periareolar (around the areola), vertical (lollipop-shaped), or anchor-shaped incisions.
Lifting and Reshaping
The Breast Lift component involves removing excess skin, reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to a more elevated position.
Implant Placement
Your surgeon will guide you through the selection process before surgery, considering factors such as implant type, size, shape, and profile.
During the procedure, the surgeon will create a pocket within the breast tissue to accommodate the breast implants. Implants can be placed either above the chest muscle (subglandular), below the muscle (submuscular) or Dual-plane (partly above and partly below the muscle). Implant placement, depends on factors like implant size, your body type, and the surgeon’s expertise (this will also be discussed and decided prior to surgery).
Suturing and Dressing
The surgeon will close the incisions with sutures, they may place supportive surgical tape or adhesive over the incisions. A surgical bra or dressing will be applied to provide support and aid in the healing process.
Recovery and Follow-up
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a ward for a night or two (for observation) or discharged home.
Before you are discharged you will receive post-operative instructions from your surgeon including how to care for the incisions, managing discomfort, and attend follow-up appointments.
Remember that each patient’s experience and procedure details will vary based on individual anatomy and surgical preferences. It’s essential to have a comprehensive discussion with your board-certified plastic surgeon to fully understand the procedure, potential outcomes, and recovery process.
Risks and Complications of Breast Lift/Mastopexy Surgery
All surgery has risks and a Mastopexy is no different. Some of the potential risks and complications associated with breast lift (mastopexy) surgery, include;
- Anesthesia Risks
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Poor Scarring
- Delayed Healing
- Changes in Sensation
- Nipple or Areola Complex Complications
- Asymmetry
- Tissue Necrosis
- Fluid Accumulation
- Seroma
- Hematoma
- Implant-Related Issues (if implants used)
- Changes in Breastfeeding ability
- Unsatisfactory Results
- Revision Surgery
It’s important to discuss these potential risks and complications with your surgeon before undergoing breast lift surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with comprehensive information and guidance to minimize these risks and ensure a safe and successful procedure. Please visit the risks of surgery page for more information.
Recovery and Aftercare
After undergoing augmentation mastopexy, a crucial phase of your journey begins – the recovery and healing process. As with any surgical procedure, proper aftercare plays a vital role in achieving optimal results. Below are key aspects of recovery and aftercare following Augmentation Mastopexy, helping you navigate this phase.
Recovery
- Recovery Timeline:Recovery varies, but you can generally expect around 2 weeks of significantly limited activity. After the ‘initial recovery’ you will be able to slowly reintroduce activities and work (depending on the physical demands of your job)
- Swelling and Bruising:Swelling and bruising are normal after surgery and will gradually subside over a few weeks.
- Pain Management:Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort during the initial stages of recovery.
- Supportive Garments:You surgeon will ask you to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support your breasts during healing. They will advise you on how long this needs to be worn for.
- Activity Restrictions:Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and activities that strain the chest area for several weeks. Make sure you get your surgeons okay before resuming any strenuous activities
- Rest and Sleep:Proper rest and sleep are essential for healing. Sleeping on your back with elevated upper body support is recommended.
- Hygiene:Follow your surgeon’s instructions for incision care, which may include keeping the surgical area clean and dry.
- Follow-Up Appointments:Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
- Each patient’s circumstances and recovery are different however typically you should expect follow-up appointments on day 2, at 1 week, 1 month, and 4 months with drains removed at the first post-op follow-up appointment (if drains are used), 2-3 days post-op.
Aftercare
- Scarring Care:Follow scar care instructions provided by your surgeon to promote optimal healing and minimize scar visibility.
- Return to Work:You may be able to return to non-strenuous work within a couple of weeks, depending on your job’s physical demands.
- Exercise Gradually:Slowly reintroduce physical activities as approved by your surgeon. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercises for a few weeks.
- Avoid Sun Exposure:Protect your incisions from direct sunlight and UV rays for several months to prevent hyperpigmentation.
- Emotional Well-being:Be patient with the healing process and remember that emotional recovery is just as important as physical recovery. Seek support if needed.
- Diet and Hydration:Maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated to aid in the healing process.
- Follow Medical Advice:Adhere to your surgeon’s instructions and attend all post-operative appointments to ensure a successful recovery.
Remember that individual recovery experiences may vary, so communicate openly with your surgeon throughout the healing journey.
Cost of a Breast Lift with Implants (Mastopexy) Melbourne
The cost of surgery can be influenced by several factors, such as the type of implant chosen, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, the length of hospital stay, and other related expenses.
Some health insurance plans may provide coverage for a portion of the surgery cost if it is deemed medically necessary. However, it’s crucial to check with your insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage available.
For accurate and personalized information regarding the cost of your surgery, it is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, they can provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved and address any specific concerns you may have.
We also provide information on Private Health Insurance, a breast lift with implant payment plan plus other different ways to pay for breast lift with implant surgery.
Why Choose Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery?
Not all Surgeons have the same experience or intensive training and testing qualifications. Be sure you learn the differences between a Plastic Surgeon, a General Surgeon, a Cosmetic Surgeon or other types of Surgeon. Also, when choosing a Plastic Surgeon word of mouth is always a great way to gain further knowledge.
Choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon means you are choosing an accredited recognised plastic surgeon that performs surgery in an accredited hospital. Look for members of FRACS, ASPS, ASAPS or ISAPS as some of the Qualifications of your Plastic Surgeon.
About Our Breast Lift Surgeons
It is important to research a Surgeon’s qualifications and experience before deciding on the Surgeon. You can check your surgeons’ credentials at AHPRA. Our Breast Reduction Surgeons, Dr Craig Rubinstein, Dr Broughton Snell, and Dr Gary Kode are all highly experienced, fully qualified specialist plastic surgeons with current FRACS memberships
