Breast Lift Surgery: Creating Shape and Contour
At Valley Plastic Surgery, Dr Matthew Peters offers breast lift surgery (mastopexy) which aims to lift the breasts by removing excess skin, tightening surrounding tissue and repositioning the nipple into a higher position. The specifics of the procedure will differ from person to person, as techniques – such as the incision type that will be used – are dependent upon on your individual anatomy and requirements.
This page provides essential information about the procedure, helping you make an informed decision about whether a breast lift is right for you.
What is a Breast Lift and Why Consider It?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes the breast by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue. Women may consider this procedure if they have experienced changes in breast shape due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and/or genetics. The goal is to create a proportionate breast contour by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue.
The actual design of the breast reduction surgical technique includes a lift, because it is about reducing the volume of tissue and creating a natural contour.
– Dr Matthew Peters
Ideal Candidates for a Breast Lift:
Good candidates for a breast lift surgery typically include:
- Women experiencing a loss of breast shape and/or volume
- Those with nipples that point downward or fall below the breast crease
- Individuals in good overall health
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery
- Women with realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes
It’s important to note that a breast lift alone does not significantly change the size of your breasts. If you’re looking to increase or decrease breast size, you may want to consider combining a lift with augmentation or reduction.
During your consultation, Dr Peters will assess your individual needs and discuss whether this procedure is suitable for you.
The Breast Lift Procedure: What to Expect:
The mastopexy surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and takes about 2 hours. There are a few mastopexy techniques which are considered best-practice and these are used to lift and contour the breast; the specifics of the procedure will depend on individual factors including anatomy and the amount of breast tissue you have. Dr Peters will discuss the details of your individual procedure with you during your consultation.
Listed below are some common methods that may be used for your breast lift procedure:
- Wise-Pattern (anchor): The method involves making an incision around the areola, continuing down to the centre of the lower half of the breast, and then making a horizontal incision along the breast crease. This allows the skin to be moved both vertically and horizontally, and allows the skin to be removed from any section.
- Benelli (peri-areolar): The method only uses one incision around the areola, and may be sufficient for breasts that require less reduction in size.
- Lollipop (vertical): The method uses an incision around the areola that continues down to the centre of the lower half of the breast. Sometimes a short horizontal incision will also be needed along the breast crease.
- Crescent: A single semi-circle type incision along the top of the areola
The most common types are the Wise-Pattern (anchor) or Benelli (peri-areolar) methods. Dr Peters will determine the right method for you to reach your desired outcome. You can discuss the details of your breast lift procedure during your initial consultation.
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Are Results Permanent?
A breast lift typically produces a permanent result, however, factors such as ageing or changes in weight can influence the breast shape and size after surgery.
Deciding whether mastopexy surgery is right for you will include Dr Peters’ consideration of these factors to determine whether revisionary surgery is required.
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Will I Still Be Able To Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?
A breast lift surgery aims to maintain the attachments of the nipple to the underlying breast tissue. This means that you should still be able to breastfeed, provided that your anatomy allowed you to do so prior to surgery.
If this is a concern for you when considering mastopexy surgery, please discuss this with Dr Peters during your initial consultation in Brisbane.
Can a Breast Lift be Combined with Other Procedures?
Yes, a breast lift can often be combined with other body contouring procedures. Common combinations include:
- Breast augmentation (to increase size or fullness)
- Breast reduction (for women with overly large breasts)
- Abdominoplasty
Dr Peters will discuss these options during your consultation, tailoring the approach to your unique anatomy and requirements.
Will there be scars?
Scars are an inevitable part of breast lift surgery. While they will be permanent, they are usually well-concealed beneath a bra or swimsuit. Over time, these scars typically fade and become less noticeable.
Recovery Process After a Breast Lift
Recovery from a breast lift surgery varies for each patient, but generally involves:
- Initial recovery period of 1-2 weeks before returning to work
- Wearing a special compression bra for up to 6 weeks
- Gradual return to normal activities over 4-6 weeks
- Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks
- Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Peters to monitor healing
Recovery from any surgical procedure is a gradual process that requires patience and dedication. Dr. Peters and his nursing team spend a tremendous amount of time with each patient to ensure they are ready for the recovery process.
You can discuss any concerns you may have about your recovery during your pre-operative consultations with either Dr Peters or the clinical nursing team at Valley Plastic Surgery.
Final results typically become apparent after several months, as swelling subsides and tissues settle. Review appoints will continues 6 and 9 months post-surgery.
Understanding the Risks
Every surgery has general risks, in addition to the procedure specific risks. The risks associated with a breast lift – and ways in which to minimise them – will be discussed with you during your consultation with Dr. Peters. He will always allow ample time to discuss any concern you may have. You can also reach out to Dr Peter’s clinical nursing team to assist with any question or concerns you may have prior to and after your procedure.
The Australasian Society of Plastic Surgeons details the potential risks and complications and you may read more here
Adhering to recovery guidelines can help minimise certain risks and complications. Ensuring that you closely monitor how you are feeling and notifying the Valley Plastic Surgery team of any concerns is the best way to mitigate your risk of adverse outcomes.
Your Journey Starts Here
If you’re considering a breast reduction or breast lift, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew Peters. During this appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Discuss your goals and concerns
- Learn about the procedure in detail
- View before and after photos of previous patients
- Receive a personalised treatment plan
- Discuss any questions or concerns you may have around your procedure.
Remember, the decision to undergo any surgical procedure is personal and should be made with careful consideration. We’re here to provide the information and support you need to make the choice that’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, mastopexy surgery does not impair your ability to breastfeed, provided that your anatomy allowed you to do so beforehand. If this is a concern of yours, please discuss this with Dr Peters during your initial consultation.
It is best to avoid sleeping face-down or on your side for a few weeks after your procedure, and instead sleep on your back. If you can, sleep with two to three extra pillows, as this can also help to reduce swelling.
Often, breast implants alone are not enough to provide the appearance of a breast lift, and cannot address specific issues such as nipple and areola placement like a breast lift can. Breast implants are designed with the purpose to add volume to the breasts, while the mastopexy procedure is designed to remove excess skin and tighten the breasts, creating a lifted appearance.
Usually, procedures of this nature are not covered by Medicare unless they are deemed necessary by a doctor or specialist to address concerns that affect the patient’s mobility or health. If your procedure is deemed medical during your consultation with Dr Peters (i.e., you meet the requirements stipulated by Medicare for your procedure to be considered medical), this will be outlined in your surgical quote.