Dr. Alexandra Turner Plastic Surgeon MBBS BSc FRACS MED00001125632

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Plastic surgeon Adelaide Breast Surgery, reduction, lift, augmentation, implants, enhancement, inverted nipples

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that may be considered by individuals seeking to address breast ptosis (sagging) and change breast shape. The procedure involves lifting and reshaping the breasts without significantly altering their size. Breast tissue is tightened, and the breast is lifted higher on the chest which also elevates the position of the nipple.It may also be considered to address breast asymmetry or differences between a natural and a reconstructed breast.

Reasons to Consider a Breast Lift

It is natural for pregnancy and breastfeeding, gaining and losing weight, or the natural ageing process to cause a loss of breast volume and diminished skin elasticity. The skin and supporting structures can stretched during these times of significant change in the body, leaving the breasts flat and thin and the nipple areola complex descended disproportionately to the breast. By elevating the breast and tightening the skin, a mastopexy can assist in raising the breast off the abdomen reducing rashes and sweating during exercise.

Please note that women planning subsequent pregnancies are advised to delay breast lift surgery as pregnancy and breastfeeding can stretch the skin and negate the outcomes of the procedure. 

Breast Lifts, Breast Augmentation & Breast Reductions

The appropriate breast procedure is determined by factors such as the position of the nipple, as well as the size and shape of the breast. Some individuals may consider combining a breast lift with breast augmentation to increase volume, add fullness, and address excess skin. Additionally, some may seek to reduce the size of the areolae or adjust their position. For individuals with larger, heavier breasts, a breast reduction may be combined with a breast lift to assist with breast positioning. A consultation with Dr. Turner will help determine the most suitable procedure for your individual goals and needs.

Breast Lift Surgery Procedure

The breast lift procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes two to three hours to complete. It is a day case procedure but may involve an overnight stay in hospital. A support bra must be worn post-surgery for six weeks to help counteract the effects of gravity on the reshaped breast, and for your comfort. Our team can help you to choose the right bra. 

During your consultation with Dr. Turner, we will ensure you fully understand the procedure that will be conducted during your surgery, as well as your steps for recovery, any risks and possible complications.

Potential Risks and Complications

Modern breast lift, or mastopexy, is generally safe but does have the potential for risks and complications to occur. Specific risks and complications associated with breast lift may include the possibility of visible and prominent scarring and changes in breast and nipple sensation. For more general and specific risks and complications of a breast lift, please click here to download Breast Lift Risks

Breast Lift Recovery

Recovery from breast lift surgery typically allows for a return to work within two weeks, with a six-week period recommended before resuming vigorous exercise, sports, or activities involving heavy lifting. Any temporary numbness in the breasts or nipples may occur and generally improves as post-operative swelling subsides, although it can persist for some time. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and support your recovery process

As the breast lift procedure involves removal of excess skin, some women note that their bra cup size decreases slightly.

Breast Lift Health Fund Rebate

Although a breast lift is often considered to be an elective cosmetic surgical procedure, in some cases leading private health funds may grant a partial rebate. Please consult your family doctor to discuss your eligibility to claim private health care rebates and to obtain a referral to present to Dr Turner’s office.

Make an appointment with Dr Turner’s office to talk through the choices available to you for lifting and reshaping your breasts.

 

Read further information about breast lift surgery on the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons' website here