Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Sydney

Breast Lift (mastopexy)

Your breasts have very little natural support. This means that pregnancy, breastfeeding and gravity will all take a toll and breasts often lose their shape and firmness and begin to sag.

A breast lift – called a mastopexy – can help reshape and firm your breasts, and can also reduce the size of the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple). If your breasts are small or if they have lost size after breastfeeding, you can have breast implants inserted in conjunction with mastopexy, thus restoring both firmness and size.

Considering a breast lift?

There are some common questions that many people who are contemplating breast lift ask, such as:?

Is it for me?
A breast lift can increase your self-confidence and restore your breasts. Dr Hunt is a very experienced surgeon and he can provide you with relevant advice that can assist your decision.

What happens at the first consultation?
During the first consultation with Dr Hunt, you will discuss the surgery, your concerns, and expectations. He will evaluate your general health, examine your breasts and measure your chest. Dr Hunt will then discuss the appropriate surgical procedure specifically designed to give you the result you desire, based on your age, the size and shape of your breasts, the condition of your skin and the amount of ‘lift’ necessary.

At the end of the consultation pictures will be taken for your medical record.

After the consultation, a quote will be prepared that will include your surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.
What's involved?
Breast surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, given by an anaesthetist, in an accredited hospital, so you are assured of the highest standard of care.

Several surgical techniques can be used for breast lift, and Dr Hunt will choose the one best suited for you. If you have small breasts and minimal sagging, you may be a candidate for short-scar surgery, such as the ‘doughnut’ or periareolar mastopexy, in which circular incisions are made around the areola only.

If you are also having an implant inserted, it will be placed in a pocket either directly under the breast tissue, or under the muscle of the chest wall.

Depending on the extent of the surgery you may have drains inserted to prevent accumulation of fluid beneath your skin.

You will wear a surgical bra over a small gauze bandage. Breast lift surgery takes 2 to 3 hours.

You will experience some scarring. Dr Hunt prefers to use short-scar techniques when possible and will discuss with you the exact placement and location of the scars during your consultation. These scars will become pale-pink to white in colour over 6 to 12 months and will be hidden by your clothing.
When can I go home?
You may be able to go home on the day of your surgery, or you may stay overnight. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you will go home.

When you go home you should limit your movements to around the house for 2 to 3 days to minimise pain.

When you are discharged you will be given a prescription for pain medication to minimise your discomfort.

You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it to prevent an upset stomach.

Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume your normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids.
Will I have to return for post-operative care?
You will return to see Dr Hunt within 5 days of surgery.

You will return for follow-up visits every 2 to 3 weeks for 2 months, then at 6 and 12 months, then an annual check-up.
How long will I be off work?
You should plan on taking about 1 week off work.
When can I resume my normal activities?
Your breasts will be bruised and tender for about 3 days after your surgery.

You will be able to shower 2 or 3 days after surgery, or when your drains are removed.

You should restrict all physical activity for at least 2 weeks. Do not lift anything over 5kg and do not drive during this period.

You can return to normal activities after 2 weeks.

You must protect your breasts from stretching activities for at least 6 weeks to allow the incisions to heal.
Take the next step. If you're ready to learn more about breast lifts, or take that step toward an improved quality of life click the button below to make an appointment to see Dr Jeremy Hunt