Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift (also called a mastopexy) raises the position of the breasts on the chest to correct descending skin and skin laxity.

Dr Jeremy Richardson will assess the extent of your excess skin tissue to tailor the procedure.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

Since every procedure is personalised to the patient, we will need to have a discussion with you about your breast shape and desired outcomes. During your initial consultation, we will go over your medical history. In general, suitable candidates for the surgery are at a stable weight, in good overall health, and have descending breasts due to ageing, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Also, suitable candidates should be non-smokers, as smoking can interfere with the healing process and make patients more prone to complications.

When speaking with Dr Richardson, you should raise any medical conditions or medications you are taking, as this will help ensure you get the right treatment for your body. We will also discuss your reasons for seeking surgery and how the procedure can help you. Since every patient has different needs, we will tailor your surgical treatment plan to your situation, health, and needs.

The Procedure

Breast lift surgery requires general anaesthesia, which means you will be asleep throughout the surgery. It can take about two to three hours to complete, depending on the specific needs of the patient.

During the procedure, Dr Richardson will make incisions to begin reshaping the breasts, taking care to position the incisions in discreet areas. The most common incision methods are the “lollipop” method and the “anchor” method. The lollipop technique involves incisions around the areola and vertically towards the breast crease in the shape of a lollipop. The anchor method involves these same incisions but with an additional incision along the lower breast crease. You can discuss which incision technique is suitable for your case during your consultation.

After making the required incisions, Dr Richardson will then begin manipulating the breast skin and tissue. The excess skin will be removed, and the nipple will be moved to a higher position. Following this, Dr Richardson will then close the incisions with sutures. Although some of the incisions may be hidden in the natural breast contours, patients may have visible scarring afterwards. Due to the gradual healing process, it may take six months to see the full results of the breast lift.

Cost of a Breast Lift

The fees for breast lift surgery can vary depending on the individual requirements and goals of each patient. It is important to consider all the details of the surgery when estimating the overall cost. If you plan to combine a breast lift with other breast procedures, then the cost of the surgery is likely to be higher compared to a less extensive surgery.

When calculating the overall cost, we will take into account the surgeon’s fees, anaesthetist fees, and hospital fees. We will also consider the cost of medication and other postoperative care. Since the procedure is generally done for cosmetic reasons, patients will need to pay for their own surgery. However, Medicare rebates are available if you require the surgery for health reasons, provided that you meet certain criteria. Dr Richardson will assess your eligibility for these criteria at your private meeting.

Aftercare

Following the surgery, your incisions will be covered with surgical dressings. You may also have tubes inserted to drain excess fluid. We will ensure that you receive the care you need after your operation, including pain medication to help manage discomfort. Additionally, you should have someone with you to drive you home.

At-home care is a vital part of your recovery. We will send you home with instructions on how to care for your body. For example, Dr Richardson may advise you to get plenty of rest and wear a compression garment for several weeks. You will also need to reduce your activity and take some time off work. This will give your breasts time to heal in their new position on the chest. Other instructions may include:

• Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet.
• Sleep with your head in a slightly upright position.
• Refrain from smoking.
• Avoid alcoholic drinks.
• Take prescribed painkillers.
• Refrain from heavy lifting and exercise.
• Consult Dr Richardson if you notice any healing issues.

During recovery, you can expect to have some discomfort and swelling. These should resolve on their own within two weeks. After your body has fully healed, you can see the final outcome of the surgery. Patients can generally expect the following:

• Some pain and discomfort in the first few days
• Return to light activities such as walking and driving after two weeks.
• Go back to work after one to two weeks if your work does not involve strenuous tasks.
• Return to light exercise after four weeks, as long as it does not involve putting a strain on the chest area.
• Resume normal exercise after six to eight weeks.

Risks and Complications

Risks of breast lift surgery can include:

• Lasting pain and swelling
• Bleeding and infection
• Reactions to anaesthesia
• Unwanted outcome
• Damage to underlying tissues
• Breastfeeding issues
• Asymmetries
• Further surgery to correct issues

Getting enough rest and caring for your operated area during recovery will help reduce risks.