Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Having a baby, losing weight, or getting older can change the size and shape of your breasts. A breast lift procedure, also known as a mastopexy, is an option to change the shape of the breasts and alter the nipple position. Mastopexy works by removing extra skin to reshape and reposition the breasts.
It can also be paired with a breast augmentation mammoplasty (implants) if desired.
Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas) is a plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in breast lift surgery and breast mastopexy 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.
If you're considering a breast lift in Cairns, Dr Hertess offers thorough consultations to help you understand whether mastopexy, or a combination procedure, is the right option for your goals.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
What is Mastopexy?
Mastopexy, or breast lift procedure, is performed to remove excess skin and tighten the surrounding tissues to reshape and reposition the breasts. The procedure can be performed with or without implants (augmentation mammoplasty), depending on your desired outcome.
Breast Mastopexy without Augmentation Mammoplasty
Breast mastopexy surgery without implants focuses solely on reshaping and lifting the breasts, without adding additional volume. This option may be suitable for women who are happy with their current breast size but want to change the position of the breast and nipple.
Breast Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty
For those looking for both a change in position and size, a breast lift mastopexy with implants (breast mammoplasty) may be an appropriate choice. During this surgery, implants are placed over or under the chest muscle to alter the volume in the upper pole of the breast, in addition to mastopexy, which addresses the breasts' elevation.
Before and after. Individual results may vary.
Who is Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery for?
Mastopexy 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 targets 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
If your breasts have retained volume but simply require repositioning, mastopexy alone may be recommended. If you're also seeking a size change, Dr Hertess may discuss combining your breast lift with augmentation mammoplasty, or with a breast reduction if you're looking to reduce volume as well as lift. Every recommendation is tailored during your consultation based on your anatomy, medical history and goals.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Incisions & Techniques
Lollipop Technique (Vertical Mastopexy)
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.
Anchor Technique (Inverted-T Mastopexy)
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 be a desired option for patients who have breasts that sit very low. This technique is more commonly used in breast reduction mammoplasty surgery.
Dr Hertess will assess your breast tissue, skin elasticity and desired outcome to recommend the most suitable technique for your breast lift procedure.
What Does Mastopexy Surgery Involve?
1. Consultation
Before your surgery, Dr Hertess will discuss your desired outcome and perform a thorough examination to determine the suitable technique for you. She will also go over any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure. If you have previous breast implants, this consultation is also an opportunity to discuss breast implant removal and replacement alongside your lift.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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 days 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.
Book a Consultation with Dr Hertess for Breast Lift Surgery
Dr Hertess is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Cairns, offering a full range of cosmetic surgery in Cairns, from breast and body procedures through to facial surgery and skin cancer treatment. If you're exploring your options for a breast lift in Cairns, contact the clinic to arrange a consultation with Dr Hertess.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) FAQs
How long does a breast lift (mastopexy) last?
The results of a breast lift (mastopexy) can last for many years, depending on individual factors. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid significant weight fluctuations to sustain 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 (mastopexy)?
It is possible that you may experience some changes in nipple sensation after a breast lift (mastopexy), but this is usually temporary and sensation can return as the breasts heal.
Do nipples get smaller after breast lift (mastopexy)?
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 breast mastopexy surgery?
Breastfeeding is often still possible after a breast lift mastopexy, 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. However, there is always some level of risk that breastfeeding ability may be impaired.
Can I combine a breast lift (mastopexy) with other procedures?
Yes, breast lift surgery can be performed in combination with other procedures such as breast augmentation mammoplasty, breast implant removal and replacement, breast reduction mammoplasty surgery or abdominoplasty surgery. This will be discussed during your consultation with Dr Hertess. Dr Hertess also performs skin cancer surgery, and any skin lesions identified on your breasts or chest during consultation can be addressed as part of your overall treatment plan.
How painful is breast lift (mastopexy) 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 mastopexy covered by Medicare?
Mastopexy surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore is not covered by Medicare. However, in some cases where there is a significant drop in breast tissue causing physical discomfort or pain, a breast reduction mammoplasty may be partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance.
How many sizes do you lose with a breast mastopexy?
A breast lift mastopexy is not designed to affect the size of the breasts. However, patients may experience a change in cup size after surgery; this is a result of removing loose skin rather than volume.
How much does a breast lift (mastopexy) cost in Australia?
There are many factors that influence the cost of a breast lift procedure, including the complexity of the case, the techniques used, and whether any additional procedures are performed at the same time. It is important to schedule a consultation with Dr Hertess to get an accurate quote based on your individual needs.
CAIRNS PLASTIC SURGERY
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Level 1, Suite 12A,
193-197 Lake Street,
Cairns, QLD, 4870 - 07 4031 5755
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