A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure performed to raise and reshape breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue.
It does not significantly alter breast volume but can be combined with breast augmentation to increase size, and it usually forms part of breast reduction surgery.
What the Procedure Involves
Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The steps involved may include:
- Incisions are made around the areola, vertically down the breast, and sometimes along the crease.
- Repositioning of the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast..
- Removal of excess skin and reshaping of breast tissue.
- Fat transfer combined with a breast lift for upper pole fullness or to correct volume.
Your surgeon will assess your breast shape, skin quality, and nipple position to determine the best surgical approach.
Surgical Techniques for Breast Reduction
The two common breast reduction surgery techniques are the circum-vertical (lollipop or vertical) incision and the anchor incision (inverted-T or Wise pattern). With both techniques, the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is moved to its new position, carefully preserving its blood supply, and the reduced volume of breast tissue is mobilised, shaped, and repositioned.
1. Circum-Vertical "Lollipop" Technique
- Incision Pattern: This approach involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the inframammary fold, resembling a lollipop.
- NAC Movement: The NAC is also elevated to a new, higher position. The NAC is typically kept attached to a tissue pedicle, ensuring its viability and maintaining sensation.
- Indications: The circum-vertical technique is best for moderate reductions and for patients who desire less visible scarring. It is less invasive than the anchor technique but still allows for effective reshaping and elevation of the NAC.
2. Wise Pattern "Anchor" Technique
- Incision Pattern: This technique uses three incisions: one around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold, creating an anchor or inverted-T shape.
- NAC Movement: The NAC is moved to a higher position on the breast. The NAC remains attached to a pedicle (a stalk of tissue) to preserve blood supply and sensation.
- Indications: This method is especially suitable for women requiring significant breast reduction and lift, as it allows for extensive tissue removal and reshaping.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A breast lift is a safe and effective way to alter the appearance of the breasts. The surgical process usually involves:
- The procedure typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and technique used.
- The surgeon will make incisions—commonly around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes horizontally along the crease.
- Excess skin is removed, and the underlying breast tissue is reshaped to lift and firm the breast.
- The nipple and areola are repositioned higher up the breast, and the areola may be resized if needed.
- The incisions are closed with dissolving sutures, surgical tape, or skin adhesives.
- In some cases, small drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid build-up if the plastic surgeon deems necessary.
Potential Benefits of a Breast Lift
Outcomes vary, but potential benefits may include:
- Altered Breast Position: A breast lift may raise the position of the breasts on the chest wall by removing excess skin and reshaping the tissue.
- Breast Shape: The procedure can help produce a more compact, rounded, or firmer breast contour, particularly after weight changes, pregnancy, or ageing.
- Repositioning of the Nipple and Areola: In some cases, the nipple and areola may be repositioned to a higher position and orientation.
- Reduction in Skin Laxity: The removal of excess or stretched skin can improve the appearance of skin tautness.
- Correction of Breast Asymmetry: If one breast sits lower than the other, a breast lift may help achieve more symmetrical positioning, although perfect symmetry is not guaranteed.
The final result depends on surgical technique and individual healing response.
Breast Lift Risks and Considerations
Modern surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgical procedure, the breast lift procedure carries risks. These include changes in breast and nipple sensation and breast asymmetry. Rare complications may include fat necrosis or allergic reactions. Working with a certified and experienced plastic surgeon significantly minimises these risks. For a list of general and specific risks and complications associated with plastic surgery and breast lifts, please click here to download.
During your consultation, your ASPC surgeon will talk about possible risks and complications. It's essential to grasp these factors before making a decision to proceed with any surgical procedure. Any concerns should be communicated to the team at ASPC.
Breast Lift Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery experiences may vary, but typical recovery involves:
- First Week: Swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort. Support garments may be required.
- 2–6 Weeks: Light activities may resume. Avoid lifting and stretching.
- 3–6 Months: Scars begin to fade; breasts continue to settle.
- 12 Months: Final outcome usually visible.
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions for care and activity. These instructions may include:
- How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
- Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
- Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site(s) or in your general health
- When to schedule follow-up appointments with your APSC plastic surgeon
Who Might Be Suitable for a Breast Lift?
Those who may benefit from a breast lift include individuals who:
- Experience breast ptosis (sagging)
- Are in good health
- Have realistic expectations
Consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is required to assess individual suitability. The decision to undergo a breast lift procedure should be based on a thorough consultation with a registered specialist plastic surgeon who can assess your individual needs and explain potential outcomes and risks.
Q: Will I lose breast volume?
A: Volume remains mostly unchanged unless combined with augmentation or reduction.
Q: Are results permanent?
A: Results are long-lasting but may change with ageing, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations.
Q: Will I have visible scars?
A: Scarring is common, but incisions are placed to minimise visibility and typically fade over time.
Q: Is Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery covered by Medicare?
A: Medicare may cover a breast lift if it is medically necessary, not for cosmetic reasons. Typical situations include Significant breast ptosis and Reconstructive cases.
Q: Is Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery covered by my health fund?
A: Private health insurance may cover additional costs, but only if your procedure qualifies for a Medicare item number and you meet medical necessity requirements. Cosmetic-only mastopexy is not covered by private health funds.
Important Note
Surgical outcomes can vary significantly between individuals. Any before-and-after images or descriptions of outcomes (not included here) are not indicative of what every patient may achieve. Only a consultation with an RACS Certified plastic surgeon can determine whether breast lift surgery is suitable for you.
Deciding on breast lift surgery is a personal choice that’s best made with a full understanding of the potential benefits, limitations, and risks. Our surgeons at Advanced Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery provide evidence-based guidance and a transparent consultation process to help you make an informed decision. If you would like to explore whether breast lift surgery is suitable for you, we encourage you to arrange a consultation with our team.