Breast Lift (mastopexy)

Having a baby, losing weight, or getting older can change the size and shape of your breasts. A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is an option to change the shape of the breasts and lift the nipple position. Mastopexy works by removing extra skin to elevate the position of the breasts. 

It can also be paired with a breast augmentation (implants) for a size increase.

Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas) is a plastic surgeon with over 27 years of experience in breast lift surgery.  She commonly performs this procedure in accredited facilities in Cairns and on the Gold Coast including John Flynn Private Hospital and Miami Private Hospital.

What is Mastopexy?

Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissues to reshape and raise the breasts. 

The procedure can be performed with or without implants, depending on your desired outcome.

Breast Lift without Implants

Mastopexy without implants focuses solely on reshaping and lifting the breasts, without adding additional volume. This option is suitable for women who are happy with their current breast size but want to lift the position of the breast and nipple.

Breast Lift with Implants

For those looking for both a lift and an increase in size, a breast lift with implants may be the right choice. During this surgery, implants are placed over or under the chest muscle to provide more volume to the upper pole of the breast in addition to the lift.

Who is Breast Lift Surgery for?

Breast lift surgery is for women who are bothered by low sitting breasts, often as a result of pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss or ageing. This procedure can help change the breast shape and position. It may be right for you if:

• Your breast tissue sits below the breast crease
• Your nipples are pointing downwards rather than forward
• You have lost volume in your breasts
  
  

Breast Lift Incisions & Techniques

Lollipop technique

The preferred technique for breast lift surgery used by Dr. Hertess is the lollipop technique, also known as a vertical mastopexy. This approach involves making an incision around the areola and then vertically down to the breast crease, resembling a lollipop shape.

This technique allows for a more lifted appearance while minimising scarring.

Anchor technique

The Anchor technique involves an additional horizontal incision along the breast crease, creating an anchor shape. While this incision does result in a larger scar compared to the lollipop technique, it can effectively lift and change breasts that sit very low. This technique is more commonly used in breast reduction surgery.

What Does Mastopexy Surgery Involve?

Consultation

Before your surgery, Dr. Hertess will discuss your desired outcome and perform a thorough examination to determine the best technique for you. She will also go over any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure.

Preoperative Preparation

Prior to your surgery, you will get your photos taken and discuss your desired results.

You may need to undergo a series of pre-operative tests and screenings to ensure your safety during the procedure.

The Procedure

The breast lift surgery itself is typically performed as a day surgery under general anaesthesia in an accredited facility.  The surgery can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.

Recovery

After the procedure, you will need to rest and recover for a few days. You may experience some bruising and swelling, but this will subside over time. Dr. Hertess will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.

It can take 6 weeks to fully recover from your surgery. The breast lift mastopexy surgery recovery timeline is as follows:

• Day of mastopexy surgery - You will need a lift home after your procedure and will be wearing a compression bra. When you get home it's important that you rest and take it easy.
• Day 1 after breast lift surgery - you will be the most sore for 1-3 after your surgery. Pain can be well-managed with pain medication prescribed by Dr Hertess.
• 1 Week post-surgery - Pain should be a lot less intense, though you will still be swollen and bruised. Light activities such as walking can be resumed. Driving can be resumed if your reflexes are not limited by pain.
• 4-6 Weeks post-surgery - most normal activities can resume, including light exercise. You will continue to wear your compression bra until around 6 weeks.
• 6 Months after mastopexy - full recovery and results are visible.
  
  

Breast Lift FAQs

How long does a breast lift last?

The results of a breast lift can last for many years. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid significant fluctuations in weight to maintain the results. Some dropping of breast tissue may occur over time due to natural ageing and gravity.

Will I still have feeling in my nipples after a breast lift?

It is possible that you may experience some changes in nipple sensation after a breast lift, but this is usually temporary and sensation can return as the breasts heal.

Do nipples get smaller after breast lift?

The nipples don't change size after surgery though an areola reduction can be considered at the time of consultation with Dr Hertess. This will reduce the size of the areola but will not necessarily change the size of the nipple unless this is requested.

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift?

Breastfeeding is often still possible after a breast lift, and it's important to discuss any future plans for pregnancy and breastfeeding with Dr Hertess before undergoing surgery. In some cases, certain techniques may be used that preserve the ability to breastfeed.

Can I combine a breast lift with other procedures?

Yes, breast lift surgery can be performed in combination with other procedures such as breast augmentation, breast implant removal or abdominoplasty surgery. This will be discussed during your consultation with Dr Hertess.

How painful is breast lift recovery?

Pain is subjective and varies from person to person. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising can be expected after surgery but this is usually well-managed with pain medication prescribed by Dr Hertess.

Is a breast lift covered by Medicare?

Breast lift surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore is not covered by Medicare. However, in some cases where there is significant drop of breast tissue causing physical discomfort or pain, a breast reduction may be partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance.

How many sizes do you lose with a breast lift?

A breast lift can make the bra size one cup smaller, though this is a result of removing loose skin rather than volume.

How much does a breast lift cost in Australia?

There are many factors that influence  the cost of a breast lift, including the complexity of the case, the techniques used, and whether any additional procedures are performed at the same time. The average cost for a breast lift in Australia is around $10,000-$15,000. However, it is important to schedule a consultation with Dr Hertess to get an accurate quote based on your individual needs.

Book a Consultation with Dr Hertess for Breast Lift Surgery