Mastopexy (Breast lift surgery)
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Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101
Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220
Breast lift Brisbane (Mastopexy)
What is a breast lift?
Breast lift surgery is designed to restore the volume and position of the breast and the nipple to the chest wall. During this cosmetic procedure, we restore the majority of the breast tissue back to its natural position and remove excess skin. Breast tissue descent, known as ptosis, is a natural consequence of aging and commonly occurs after breastfeeding.
The most common reasons for mastopexy are:
- Repositioning breasts that have sagged.
- Restoring loss of firmness of the tissue and skin.
- Addressing shoulder and neck pain related to breast tissue descent.
During your consultation we will talk about your individual reasons for this type of surgery, your goals and expectations. We will also discuss your past medical history, past surgical history, medications, allergies, the risk of surgery, potential complications and expected recovery after surgery.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
Breast lift surgery or mastopexy is often combined with breast augmentation, another cosmetic procedure designed to increase breast volume.
You may be a good candidate for mastopexy if your breasts have sagged, lost shape and firmness or your nipple falls below the breast crease. This surgery is designed for patients who are healthy and we recommend waiting until your family is complete and you’re no longer breastfeeding.
Want to find out now if you are a good candidate? Answer 3 short questions and receive a personal reply from Dr Hadj.
Some patients require combined surgery or staged surgeries and this will depend upon discussions we have together.
Where do you operate?
Breast lift surgeon Brisbane
Mastopexy: step by step
Anaesthetic
First, you will meet the theatre team and anaesthetist. Then, you will be given a general anaesthetic and once you’re asleep we’ll start the procedure by making incisions.
Incisions and reshaping your breasts
We will make an incision to reposition the nipple and to restore the breast tissue we most commonly use an inverted T incision, with a scar around the areola, straight down to the centre of the breast crease and across the breast fold.
Closing the incisions
After reshaping and removing excess skin, the skin is closed and soon after you will wake up in the recovery room.
Result
Initial changes are visible post-surgery, but final results develop gradually as swelling subsides and healing progresses.
The best preparation is to stay fit and healthy, minimising alcohol intake and not smoking. It’s important that you tell us which medications and supplements you’re taking prior to surgery.
It is recommended to complete breastfeeding prior to this operation as there is a risk of disrupting breast ducts during the operation
Breast lift recovery explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj
Recovery after breast lift surgery
Recovery experiences vary among patients. Many require around a week off work, but recovery times depend on individual factors and the extent of surgery. We don’t recommend any type of sports or heavy lifting in the first 4 weeks after surgery. Most surgery is day surgery however some patients require 1 night in hospital.
When you wake up, you will feel slight discomfort and there will be some bruising.
By the end of day 7 most bruising will have gone and you will be quite comfortable. You will have your first post-op appointment with the clinic nurse on day 7.
Working, bathing, exercising and driving?
- Working is usually fine after 1 week.
- Bathing and showering are fine after 36 hours.
- Driving is fine after 1 week.
- Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for approximately four weeks, depending on individual healing and surgeon recommendations.
Breast lift risks explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj
Risks and complications
The following risks are associated with breast lift surgery:
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
- Recurrence.
- Nipple asymmetry.
- Nipple scar.
- Nipple loss (scabbing of the nipple requiring dressings).
- Need for revision surgery.
- Nipple numbness.
- Loss of erectile function of the nipple (often temporary).
Scarring varies between individuals. The scar will be along the IMF (breast to chest wall fold) and vertically to the nipple as well as circumferentially around the nipple. Incisions typically heal over time, but patients should follow aftercare instructions to optimise healing.
Breast lift Brisbane cost
What does the procedure cost?
The cost of breast lift surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual circumstances. For details about costs, please contact my practice.
Patients should verify their surgeon’s credentials, ensuring they are registered with AHPRA and appropriately qualified in plastic surgery.
There is a distinction between specialist plastic surgeons and cosmetic practitioners. Patients are advised to verify a surgeon’s qualifications through AHPRA.
A plastic surgeon has undertaken over 12 years of post-medical specialist training. That’s an important indicator when it comes to choosing a plastic surgeon.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
It’s also recommended to always seek second opinions if you have concerns. Ultimately you should feel comfortable with the plastic surgeon you are seeing.
There is a medicare rebate on this surgery to be discussed with your surgeon.
A breast lift alone does not increase volume. Some patients may choose to combine the procedure with implants for additional volume.
About Dr Andrew Hadj, Plastic surgeon Brisbane
Plastic surgery is the ultimate expression of art and science
Is there any difference between a plastic and cosmetic surgeon
Finding the right surgeon for cosmetic procedures can be a daunting experience if you don’t know what to look for.
