Mastopexy – Breast Lift Melbourne
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure used to address breast ptosis (droop) by removing excess skin, reshaping breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple–areola complex to suit the new breast shape; it is designed to improve position and contour rather than increase breast volume. This page outlines common options, along with key risks and recovery considerations. Procedures are planned following consultation with Dr Rodrigo Teixeira, Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
What is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape the breasts by removing excess skin, reshaping breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple–areola complex. The aim is to improve breast shape and position while maintaining proportion. A breast lift does not usually increase breast size.
Breast laxity (ptosis) is usually driven by stretching of the skin and supporting tissues, which can allow the breast to sit lower on the chest and the nipple position to change. Ageing, pregnancy and breastfeeding changes, weight fluctuations (including significant weight loss), genetics, gravity, and skin elasticity can all contribute. Volume loss or “deflation” may also play a role, but mastopexy is primarily a lift and reshaping procedure; if a change in size is also a goal, that is discussed separately as part of overall surgical planning.
Women often enquire when they notice the breasts sitting lower or the nipple pointing downward, or no longer being able to wear the same clothes. In consultation, these changes are assessed to confirm whether mastopexy is appropriate and to plan the amount of lift and reshaping required.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis (lift vs augmentation vs reduction)
Breast ptosis and shape changes are not one single problem. A careful assessment helps determine which pathway may be most appropriate, including whether the main issue is nipple position, skin stretch, volume loss, or breast weight. Diagnostic clarity helps align expectations and surgical planning.
True ptosis (nipple position has descended)
A lift may be considered when the nipple sits low relative to the breast mound and fold, or points downward.
Deflation (volume loss) without significant nipple descent
Some patients mainly have loss of upper pole fullness rather than significant nipple descent. Options may include augmentation (implant) or fat transfer in selected patients, with or without a smaller lift depending on skin and nipple position.
Heavy breasts contributing to stretch (macromastia)
When breast weight contributes to stretch, symptoms, or shape concerns, breast reduction (which includes a lifting component) may be discussed.
Implant-related shape change (including considering implant removal)
Where implants are present, options may include implant exchange, explant with lift, or other reshaping strategies depending on tissue characteristics and goals.
Types of Breast Lift Techniques and What the Procedure Involves
The incision pattern and internal reshaping are chosen based on the degree of ptosis, skin quality, breast volume, base width, and symmetry.
Periareolar (donut) mastopexy
An incision is made around the areola. This approach is generally used for mild ptosis and can sometimes be combined with areola resizing.
Vertical (lollipop) mastopexy
An incision is made around the areola with an additional vertical incision down to the breast crease. This is commonly used for moderate ptosis and enables more reshaping than periareolar approaches.
Wise pattern (anchor or inverted‑T) mastopexy
Incisions are placed around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the breast fold. This approach is often used when there is more significant ptosis or excess skin.
Breast Lift Options and Combinations
Breast lift alone
This may be considered when breast volume is adequate and shape or position is the main concern.
Breast lift with fat transfer
In selected patients, autologous fat transfer may be used to refine breast contour or add modest volume. Fat transfer uses your own fat, harvested via liposuction, processed, and injected into targeted areas of the breast. Not all transferred fat persists long-term. Suitability depends on donor fat availability, breast tissue characteristics, and your goals.
Augmentation mastopexy (lift combined with breast implant)
A combined approach may be considered when there is ptosis plus volume loss and the goal includes increasing upper pole fullness. Augmentation mastopexy is more complex than either procedure alone and requires careful planning, including discussion of scarring, recovery, and the possibility of revision surgery.
Dr Teixeira’s Surgical Approach to Breast Lift Surgery
Dr Rodrigo Teixeira’s approach to breast lift surgery is based on accurate diagnosis and detailed assessment. In some cases, patients may request breast augmentation when a lift is more appropriate, or vice versa. A comprehensive clinical evaluation is performed to determine whether ptosis is present and whether mastopexy is indicated.
This assessment includes evaluating breast volume, tissue elasticity, nipple position, and upper pole fullness. Where volume enhancement is desired, suitability for fat transfer versus breast implants is discussed based on anatomy and goals. Surgical planning is tailored to each patient, with clear discussion of appropriate options and realistic expectations.
Risks and Complications
All surgery carries risk. Potential risks associated with mastopexy can include:
- Scarring, with variability in healing
- Delayed wound healing
- Infection, bleeding or haematoma, and fluid collection (seroma)
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation (temporary or permanent)
- Rarely, compromised blood supply to the nipple–areola complex
- Risks related to anaesthesia
- Fat necrosis (if fat transfer is performed)
- Implant-related risks (if augmentation mastopexy is performed)
- Possibility of revision surgery
Your individual risk profile depends on factors such as smoking status, medical conditions, prior surgery, and tissue characteristics. These are assessed during consultation.
What to Expect: Before, During & After Your Breast Lift Surgery
Pre-surgery Consultation & Preparation
Before surgery, patients undergo a detailed consultation that includes a review of medical history, physical examination, and breast measurements. Clinical photographs are taken for medical record and planning purposes. The procedure, risks, recovery, and alternatives are discussed, and informed consent is obtained. Pre-operative instructions may include guidance on medications, smoking cessation, and general health optimisation.
The Surgery & Hospital Details
Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The duration of surgery varies depending on the technique used and whether additional procedures are performed. Incisions are placed according to the chosen technique and may include areas around the areola, vertically beneath the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease. Efforts are made to position scars so they are generally concealed under bras or swimwear.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery varies between individuals, but commonly includes swelling and bruising early on, wearing a support garment or bra as advised, a gradual return to activity with initial restrictions on heavy lifting and exercise, scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing, and scar maturation over the months that follow. Adhering to post-operative instructions plays an important role in recovery and outcomes.
Results & Longevity
In the early post-operative period, the breasts may look higher and feel firmer or tighter, with shape continuing to evolve as swelling subsides gradually. It also takes time for the skin and breast tissue to relax and “settle” into their longer-term position and shape over time. Ongoing factors such as ageing, gravity, weight changes, and skin quality can influence how results change over time. A breast lift does not stop the natural ageing process, and long-term outcomes vary between individuals.
Our Melbourne Clinic
Our Melbourne clinic provides a professional, private, and calm environment for consultations. Surgery is performed in accredited external operating facilities. Consultation rooms are designed to be comfortable and discreet, supporting open discussion. Patient care is prioritised throughout the surgical journey, from initial consultation through to post-operative follow-up, with attentive staff and coordinated care.
Breast Lift - FAQs
There is no single “right age.” Suitability depends on physical development, breast anatomy, health factors, and your goals. Future plans such as pregnancy can also influence timing.
A breast lift primarily reshapes and repositions the breasts rather than increasing volume. If increased fullness is desired, options such as implants or fat transfer may be discussed for selected patients.
Discomfort and tightness are common early on and typically improve as healing progresses. Pain experience varies, and management is individualised.
Scars are expected. Their pattern depends on the technique used. Scars usually change over time as they mature, but appearance varies between individuals.
Yes. Augmentation mastopexy may be considered when both lift and increased fullness are desired. This is a more complex procedure and requires careful consideration.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can change breast size, skin stretch, and breast position, which may affect long-term shape. Timing is discussed during consultation.
Early changes are visible after initial healing, but swelling settles and scars mature over several months.
Breastfeeding may still be possible, but it cannot be guaranteed and varies between individuals.
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