Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Mastopexy, commonly known as a “breast lift”, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts.

This procedure can restore a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing breast contour by removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola.

Mastopexy is an excellent option for women who are satisfied with their breast volume but desire a more elevated and firm appearance. However, mastopexy can be perform in conjunction with breast augmentation (implants) if breast volume is lacking, or if you seek enhanced breast volume.

Overview of Breast Ptosis

Breast ptosis, or sagging, is a common condition that occurs when the breasts lose their youthful shape and firmness. This can be due to various factors, including ageing, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and genetic predisposition.

The degree of ptosis can range from mild to severe, significantly affecting the overall appearance and symmetry of the breasts.

Degrees of Breast Ptosis

  1. Mild Ptosis (Grade I): The nipple is at the level of the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast) but above most of the breast tissue.
  2. Moderate Ptosis (Grade II): The nipple is below the level of the inframammary fold but still above the lowest contour of the breast.
  3. Severe Ptosis (Grade III): The nipple is significantly below the inframammary fold and points downward.

Several factors contribute to the development of breast ptosis:

  • Ageing: As women age, the skin loses its elasticity, and the breast tissue becomes less firm, leading to sagging.
  • Gravity: Over time, the constant pull of gravity causes the breast tissue to stretch and sag.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding cause the breasts to enlarge and then shrink, stretching the skin and ligaments.
  • Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes in weight can affect the volume and elasticity of the breast tissue, leading to sagging.
  • Genetics: A family history of breast ptosis can increase the likelihood of developing sagging breasts.
Mastopexy is the primary surgical treatment for addressing breast ptosis. The procedure can be customised to meet the individual needs and goals of each patient, with various techniques available depending on the degree of sagging and the desired outcome.
  1. Crescent Lift:
    • Indication: Suitable for women with mild ptosis.
    • Procedure: Involves a small crescent-shaped incision above the areola, allowing for minimal lifting and repositioning of the nipple.
    • Scarring: Minimal and well-concealed along the top edge of the areola.
  2. Periareolar (Donut) Lift:
    • Indication: Ideal for women with mild to moderate ptosis.
    • Procedure: Involves a circular incision around the areola, allowing for more significant lifting and areola reshaping.
    • Scarring: Limited to the perimeter of the areola.
  3. Vertical (Lollipop) Lift:
    • Indication: Suitable for women with moderate ptosis.
    • Procedure: Involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the inframammary fold, enabling greater reshaping and lifting.
    • Scarring: Forms a lollipop shape around the areola and down to the breast crease.
  4. Anchor (Inverted T) Lift:
    • Indication: Best for women with severe ptosis.
    • Procedure: Involves three incisions: around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the inframammary fold. This technique allows for maximum reshaping and lifting.
    • Scarring: More extensive but can be well-concealed by a bra or bikini top.

The Mastopexy Procedure in Australia

In Australia, mastopexy is a well-regulated and widely performed procedure by experienced plastic surgeons. The process typically begins with a comprehensive consultation to discuss the patient’s goals, examine the breasts, and determine the most suitable surgical technique.

During this consultation, the surgeon will also explain the risks and benefits of the procedure and set realistic expectations for the outcomes.

Patients are usually advised to:

  • Avoid certain medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase bleeding.
  • Stop smoking, as it can interfere with healing.
  • Arrange for someone to drive them home and assist them for the first 24-hours post-surgery.

Mastopexy is typically performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes between two-to-three hours, depending on the complexity.

The surgeon will make the necessary incisions, remove excess skin, and reposition the nipple and areola to a more youthful height. The remaining breast tissue is reshaped and tightened to create a firmer contour.

  • Dressings and Bandages: After surgery, the ears will be bandaged to protect them and maintain their new shape. These dressings are typically worn for a few days.
  • Pain Management: Patients may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and ensure the ears are settling into their new position correctly.

Recovery from mastopexy varies, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within one-to-two weeks, although strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.

Swelling and bruising typically subside within a few weeks, and the final results become more apparent as healing progresses.

The results of mastopexy are generally long-lasting, providing an elevated and more youthful breast appearance. While the ageing process continues, most women enjoy the benefits of their surgery for many years, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Mastopexy can have significant psychological benefits, enhancing self-esteem and confidence. Many women feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance, which can positively impact their social and professional interactions.

Conclusion

Mastopexy is a safe and effective procedure for women seeking to improve the appearance of sagging breasts. In Australia, experienced plastic surgeons perform this procedure with great success, helping patients achieve a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing breast contour.

Whether addressing the effects of ageing, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations, mastopexy can provide transformative results.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our clinic. Dr Atul Ingle has significant experience performing mastopexy (lift) surgery and is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals and enhancing your overall quality of life.

Dr Atul Ingle is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Townsville.

He has 20+ years of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery and holds two Master of Surgery Degrees. He is the Head of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department at Townsville University Hospital.

If you have a question about a condition or treatment, or would like to book an appointment, please contact us and one of our friendly staff members will happily assist you.