Minimising Scarring after Breast Surgery

Minimising Scarring after Breast Surgery

Breast surgery can be performed for various reasons, ranging from cosmetic enhancements such as augmentation mammoplasty and lift mastopexy, to medical necessities like mastectomies or lumpectomies for breast cancer treatment. While these procedures can offer many beneficial outcomes, they often leave behind scars that can cause physical discomfort or distress. In many cases, scars can make the recovery journey more challenging. Fortunately, several strategies can help reduce the visibility and impact of these scars, enhancing the overall results of the surgery.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has devoted his career to helping patients achieve the aesthetic outcomes they desire. He understands the physical and emotional toll that scars may impose. Dr Hunt’s compassionate care extends to all his patients, providing them with the information and support they need to confidently navigate their recovery journey.

Download Dr Hunt’s Guide to Breast Surgery

Standard Breast Surgery

Types of Breast Surgery Procedures

There are many types of breast surgery procedures, each with its own potential for scar formation. Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty involves placing implants to increase breast size, which can result in scars either around the nipple, under the breast crease, or in the armpit.

Breast reduction mammoplasty surgery is performed with the aim to reduce the size of large breasts, with scars forming around the nipple and down the lower portion of the breast.

A breast lift mastopexy procedure is performed to raise sagging breasts, and it commonly leaves a scar around the nipple, vertically down to the breast crease and along the crease itself.

For women who’ve undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer, breast reconstruction surgery can be an option. This procedure often leaves scars, but their location can vary depending on the specific surgical technique used.

Surgical Approaches and Incisions for Breast Surgery

The type and location of incisions made during breast surgery significantly influence the appearance of scars. Some common surgical approaches include:

  • Periareolar incision: An incision made around the edge of the areola, which is often used in breast augmentation mammoplasty, reduction mammaplasty, and lift mastopexy surgeries
  • Inframammary incision: An incision made in the crease under the breast, often used in augmentation mammoplasty and reconstruction surgeries
  • Transaxillary incision: This type of incision is made in the armpit, used primarily for breast augmentation mammoplasty
  • Vertical or “lollipop” incision: Used in breast reduction mammaplasty or lift mastopexy surgeries, it involves an incision around the areola’s edge that goes down vertically to the breast crease
  • Wise pattern or “anchor” incision: Often used in very large breast reduction mammaplasty or in mastopexies where the breast is extremely ptotic. The incision lies around the areola, vertically down the front of the breast and horizontally in the breast crease.

Factors Influencing Scar Formation

Scar formation after breast surgery can be influenced by various factors:

  • Genetic predisposition: Some individuals are naturally prone to form more noticeable hypertophic or keloid scars
  • Surgical technique: The plastic surgeon’s skill and the chosen surgical method can impact scar visibility
  • Post-operative care: How well you care for the wound after surgery can significantly influence scar formation
  • Lifestyle factors: Smoking and exposure to sun can exacerbate scar formation
  • Nutrition: Good nutrition is vital for proper wound healing and minimising scar tissue formation

How to Prepare For Breast Surgery to Prevent Visible Scars after Surgery

Preparing for breast surgery with the aim of minimising visible scars is an essential part of your surgical journey. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Choose an experienced surgeon: Choosing an experienced surgeon is crucial. They should have extensive knowledge of the best surgical techniques to minimise scarring and of proper wound care post-surgery
  2. Discuss the surgical approach: Talk to your surgeon about the type of incisions they plan to make
  3. Quit smoking: If you are a smoker, it’s highly recommended to quit at least a few weeks before the surgery. Smoking/vaping can slow down your recovery and increase the risk of visible scarring
  4. Preoperative consultation: Discuss with your surgeon any concerns you have about scarring, and learn about the strategies that can be implemented both during and after surgery to minimise scars

Download Dr Hunt’s Guide to Recovery

Rapid Recovery

What to Avoid After Breast Surgery to Minimise Scars

Postoperative care is just as important as preoperative preparation when it comes to minimising scars after breast surgery. Here are some things to avoid to ensure the best possible outcome:

  • Avoid stress on the incision site: Avoid any activities that could put stress or strain on the incision site, especially in the early recovery phase. This includes heavy lifting, rigorous exercise, and stretching movements that may pull at the sutures
  • Don’t smoke: Smoking/vaping can significantly hinder the healing process and lead to worse scarring. It’s crucial to avoid smoking/vaping for several weeks post-surgery
  • Avoid sun exposure: Protect your scars from the sun, as UV radiation can darken scars and make them more noticeable. If you need to go outside, wear protective clothing, or apply a strong SPF sunscreen to the scar area once it has fully healed
  • Avoid picking at scabs or stitches: Picking at scabs or stitches can interrupt the healing process and potentially lead to worse scarring. If your stitches are causing discomfort, consult your surgeon rather than trying to handle it yourself
  • Don’t neglect proper nutrition: Continue to eat a diet rich in nutrients that support healing and healthy skin
  • Avoid dehydration: Keeping your body and skin hydrated can support the healing process, so try to avoid becoming dehydrated
  • Avoid swimming and baths: Soaking your incisions in water can lead to infection and negatively impact wound healing. Stick to showers until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead
  • Avoid alcohol: Excessive alcohol can impair wound healing, and can also interact with post-surgical medications. It’s best to limit or avoid alcohol in the weeks following surgery

Surgical and Non-surgical Scar Reduction Methods

Several surgical and non-surgical methods can be utilised to reduce scars post breast surgery:

Surgical methods include scar revision surgery, where the surgeon removes the scar and re-closes the wound, and fat grafting, which involves injecting small amounts of fat into the scar to minimise its appearance. The surgical methods to reduce or modify the appearance of scars can vary, depending on the type, location, and age of the scar, as well as other factors like the patient’s health and lifestyle. Here are two common surgical techniques:

  • Scar Revision Surgery

In this process, the existing scar is surgically removed, and the skin is re-sutured to heal in a less noticeable fashion. This can be done through a few different techniques.

  • Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer or lipofilling, can help improve the appearance of depressed or atrophic scars. This procedure involves collecting a small amount of fat from another part of the body (like the abdomen or thighs), processing it, and then injecting it into the scar area. The injected fat can help elevate the depressed scar, making it level with the surrounding skin surface and thus less noticeable. In addition, fat grafting can also help improve the scar’s texture and colour, making it blend better with the surrounding skin.

Non-surgical methods include:

  • Topical treatments: Creams, gels, and silicone sheets can help in reducing scar visibility. Silicone sheets or gels are particularly effective as they keep the scar hydrated and protect it from excess sunlight, enhancing healing and minimising scar formation
  • Laser therapy: This treatment can reduce scar thickness and redness. The laser breaks down scar tissue and stimulates the body’s healing process, leading to the formation of healthier skin
  • Steroid injections: These are used for hypertrophic or keloid scars and can help reduce their size and alleviate discomfort
  • Massage: Gentle scar massage can help break down scar tissue and improve flexibility, especially in raised or thickened scars

Remember, the most suitable scar reduction method depends on the type of scar. Therefore, it is always best to consult a medical professional or a trained plastic surgeon like Dr Jeremy Hunt for personalised advice on scar reduction. They can guide you through the process, ensuring you understand the expectations and results of each method.

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FAQs about Scars after Breast Surgery

When is scar revision surgery needed?

  • Scar revision surgery is usually considered when a scar causes physical discomfort or restricts movement, when the scar is aesthetically displeasing or causes distress, or when non-surgical methods have not been effective. Scars that have healed in a way that is noticeably misaligned with the skin’s natural tension lines, keloid scars (which are raised and extend beyond the original wound), or hypertrophic scars (which are thick and raised, but do not extend beyond the original wound) can often benefit from scar revision surgery.

Can scars from breast surgery be completely eliminated?

  • While the goal of scar management strategies is to make scars as unnoticeable as possible, it’s important to remember that scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process. As such, they cannot be completely eliminated. Surgical and non-surgical methods can significantly reduce the appearance of scars, making them less noticeable and more aesthetically pleasing. The results vary depending on the individual’s healing capabilities, the location and type of the scar, and the treatment method used.

How long does it take for breast surgery scars to heal?

  • Healing times for breast surgery scars vary from one patient to the other. In most cases, initial wound healing occurs within 2 weeks, during which time the incision site should be carefully protected. Over the next few months, the scar will typically become darker and harder – this is a normal part of the healing process. Over the next 1 to 2 years, the scar will usually soften and fade, although it may not completely disappear.

What are my options to get rid of scars after breast surgery?

  • You have several options to manage scars after breast surgery. Topical treatments such as silicone sheets and creams, and injectable treatments like corticosteroids, can be used. For more noticeable scars, laser therapy or microneedling can be beneficial. Surgical options, such as scar revision surgery or fat grafting, may be considered for more severe or problematic scars.

Can natural remedies help reduce scars?

  • Natural remedies can sometimes help with scar management, although their efficacy varies and they are typically less effective than medical treatments. Aloe Vera is known for its healing properties and can soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Vitamin E oil, when massaged into the scar, can help improve the scar’s elasticity and appearance.

Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Dr Hunt

Medical References about Breast Surgery and Scars

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon and a member of FRACS & ASPS. He has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

The one-on-one service and attention to detail from Dr Hunt, has ensured that thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia have received high quality surgical care.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Would you like more information before scheduling your consultation?

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Breast Laxity – Correcting Breast Ptosis with Breast Augmentation or Reduction Mammoplasty, or Breast Lift

Breast Laxity – Correcting Breast Ptosis with Breast Augmentation or Reduction Mammoplasty, or Breast Lift

Breast laxity is one of the most common complaints with ageing or after pregnancy. Breasts that have stretched or become lax typically have a lower position on the chest wall, often the upper breasts lack volume and the nipple and areola are pointing down instead of forward. Fortunately, there are several surgical solutions to correct these issues. The most popular procedure to elevate the breasts is breast lift or mastopexy surgery. Other options include Breast Implants (Augmentation Mammoplasty) or Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty) surgery.

Sydney Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has performed hundreds of breast procedures.

Download the Guide to Breast Surgery

Standard Breast Surgery

Classification for Breast Laxity: Degree of Ptosis

The medical term we use to define breasts that sit low on the chest is breast ptosis. There are three different stages of breast ptosis. A suitable treatment plan can only be developed after assessing your level of breast ptosis or other breast conditions that look similar to breast ptosis.

When it comes to breast ptosis, we need to look at the position of the mammary gland compared to the inframammary fold – the crease under the breasts, where the breasts meet the chest wall. The ptosis is more or less severe depending on the amount of breast tissue that is positioned below the level of the inframammary fold.

Grade 1: Minor Breast Ptosis

If you have grade 1 breast ptosis it means that the nipple is at the same level or up to 1 cm below the inframammary fold. There are multiple options to correct grade 1 breast ptosis – the most popular is breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. A breast lift mastopexy is performed to eliminate the excess skin and lift the nipple and areola complex. The surgery can be performed in association with breast implants (breast augmentation mammoplasty) if you want to correct the ptosis and also add more volume to the upper breasts.

Grade 2: Moderate Breast Ptosis

In this case, the nipple is located 1-3 cm below the crease. A breast lift (mastopexy) procedure is often the best solution for this case and, just like it is the case for minor breast ptosis, the lift could be performed together with implants.

Grade 3: Severe Breast Ptosis

In this case, the nipple is positioned more than 3 cm under the inframammary fold level and it is pointing down, not to the front. To correct severe breast ptosis, breast lift (mastopexy) surgery is often recommended. When the ptosis is severe, more incisions might be needed to correct the issue.

Pseudo-Ptosis

Pseudo-ptosis, as the name implies, is a type of ‘fake’ ptosis. The breasts might look like they are low as there is breast tissue hanging below the inframammary fold level; however, the nipple and areola are in the correct anatomical position. Pseudoptosis can be corrected with the help of a breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery.

Parenchymal Maldistribution

Parenchymal maldistribution is characterised by a lack of fullness in the lower pole of the breast. The crease below the breasts is positioned high on the chest wall and there is a short distance from the nipple to the fold. The condition is similar to tuberous breasts and can be corrected using the breast procedure recommended by Dr Hunt after a medical examination.

What Causes Breast Laxity or Ptosis?

Breast ptosis occurs with the natural ageing process. However, there are other factors that could contribute to the early onset of breast ptosis including weight fluctuations, pregnancy, hormonal imbalance, genetic predisposition and high breast volume.

1. Ageing

Ageing, as mentioned above, causes the structural integrity of the skin to decrease significantly. This change, when combined with the downward stretching of the skin, due to gravity, results in significant breast ptosis. Many women experience this change in the shape of their breasts. It is important to note that these changes become more pronounced and visible after you hit menopause.

2. Excessive sun exposure

Sunburn or sun exposure without proper protection can result in damage to even the deepest layers of the skin, which consequently contributes to the stretching of skin.

3. Weight gain or weight fluctuations

Maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits, one of which is reduced skin laxity. If there is a significant amount of weight gain, that will also cause a change in the size of the breasts. A quick change in the size of breasts can cause rapid stretching of the overlying skin, resulting in stretched skin when this weight is lost. Weight gain also causes an increase in the breast tissue which makes them bigger and heavier. This can exaggerate the impact of gravity on the breasts.

4. Smoking

Smoking is extremely harmful to your physical health due to the high content of carcinogens and nicotine present in smoke. These carcinogens, or cancer-producing substances, also affect your skin and its elements, namely elastin. They break down elastin, making the skin lose its elastic nature and ability to return to its original form. Since the breast skin isn’t elastic anymore, it’s more likely to begin to show the effects of gravity.

5. Lack of proper support

It is highly recommended to wear a well-fitted bra that provides sufficient support to your breasts. While having no proper support may not cause any instant damage to your breast shape, over time, your breasts will begin to descend. This problem arises in the late 30s and 40s, although you may be avoiding wearing a bra during your 20s. Another important thing to remember is that wearing a bra alone is not enough if it doesn’t provide enough support to your breast. Wearing an ill-fitting bra that doesn’t cover your breasts entirely, or has a loose band, meaning that it doesn’t hold your breasts, can cause permanent damage to your breast structure in the long run.

6. Pregnancy

Breastfeeding was initially believed to be one of the most important factors responsible for breast laxity in women who have been pregnant and given birth. However, it was recently determined that breast ptosis or laxity is not the result of breastfeeding but rather the effect of significant breast size changes that occur during pregnancy.

How to Prevent Breast Ptosis

Prevention is always better than cure. You should try to take care of your breasts so that the structural integrity of your breasts is maintained. Taking necessary steps to prevent the breast ptosis can help slow down even the effect of ageing and gravity on your breasts. Some of the ways in which you can prevent breast ptosis are mentioned below:

  • Eating a nutritious diet, rich in antioxidants
  • Wearing a proper bra
  • Avoiding excessive sun exposure

How to Treat Breast Ptosis – Surgical Solutions

Dr Jeremy Hunt Theatre Breast Laxity – Correcting Breast Ptosis with Breast Augmentation or Reduction Mammoplasty, or Breast Lift - 2

The best treatment of saggy breasts is determined by multiple factors, the most important being the breast ptosis grade. Based on the classification of the sagging, the treatment options and the surgical approaches can be very different. Here are the surgical solutions that can help you get perky breasts:

1. Breast Lift Mastopexy

A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin from the breasts and raise their position on the chest. It is performed after significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies that have left the with a lax or low appearance. A mastopexy procedure can be performed on its own or in combination with other procedures. The decision to combine procedures may be taken if the combination will be more beneficial in treating the breast ptosis than just performing a breast lift (mastopexy). The breast mastopexy could be performed together with a breast implants (augmentation mammoplasty) surgery and even a breast reduction mammoplasty to work towards achieving the patient’s desired outcomes. However, the breast lift (mastopexy) is often performed with liposuction and a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty as part of Post Pregnancy Surgery.

2. Breast Reduction Mammoplasty

A breast reduction mammoplasty procedure is often helpful in preventing further ptosis as it helps reduce the weight of the breast. For optimal treatment of ptosis or laxity, the procedure is often performed in combination with a breast mastopexy procedure. This combination procedure allows your surgeon to remove the breast tissue, while simultaneously removing the excess skin that will be present after the breast reduction mammoplasty procedure.

3. Breast Implants (Augmentation Mammoplasty)

Breast implants surgery, or breast augmentation mammoplasty, could be a good option for you if you have small breasts with minor breast ptosis. Placing a small breast implant, and repositioning the nipple and areola can improve the appearance of the breasts. A breast implant procedure will not only treat laxity but can also increase breast volume.

It is recommended to discuss the side effects of each procedure and your eligibility before making your decision. You should discuss the potential surgical solutions with your surgeon, in detail, so that you can make an informed decision with regards to the surgery you want to undergo.

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FAQs about Breast Laxity and Surgical Solutions

How can I fix breast laxity (ptosis)?

  • The most popular procedure to correct breast ptosis is a breast lift mastopexy. However, in some cases, the procedure might be accompanied by a breast augmentation mammoplasty or reduction mammoplasty.

What causes breasts to descend?

  • There are multiple factors ranging from ageing and sun exposure to smoking that can cause your breasts to move downwards.

How do you lift your breasts with a bra?

  • Wearing a well-fitting bra that covers your breasts, and has a band that does not ride high on your back will provide your breasts with enough support to keep them in shape for longer.

Should I wear a bra to bed?

  • You can wear a bra to bed if that is what makes you comfortable. If you aren’t comfortable, you can opt to sleep without a bra.

Does going braless cause breast ptosis?

  • Lack of proper support is one of the most common causes of breast ptosis. You should always wear a supportive bra to maintain the structural integrity and shape of your breasts.

Further Reading about Breast Procedures

Medical References

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon and a member of FRACS & ASPS. He has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Common Goals of Breast Surgery Patients

Common Goals of Breast Surgery Patients

There is no right or wrong when it comes to a person’s goals for breast surgery. Breast characteristics include breast symmetry, the size, natural shape, and breast and nipple position.

Of course, different people have different perceptions and opinions on what they want their breasts to look like, or what they may consider desirable. For some patients, it will be a fuller, rounder look and for others, it will be a smaller, more petite and athletic look. Each individual breast surgery patient will have a different surgical plan based on their own goals – what they desire as an individual.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast cosmetic surgery. He performs different surgical techniques for breast augmentation mammoplasty, reduction mammoplasty, lift mastopexy, and reconstruction surgeries.

Guide to Breast Surgery

Standard Breast Surgery

Consultation About Your Goals

Process of consultation is the first step, and this would involve discussing with patients their expectations, so that the image that they have in their mind can be formulated into a surgical plan.

It may take multiple consultations and is often worthwhile for patients to bring images of what they desire the results to look like. It will also be important to think about your goals realistically and understand the risks and things that could go wrong.

Factors that will need to be considered will be the height of the patient, the weight of the patient, the width of their chest, their lifestyle and the length of their chest, as well as torso in terms of a ratio.

Anatomy Of the Breast

Your breasts are mainly made up of three types of tissue:

  • Glandular tissue: containing lobes and lobules that end in bulbs (glands) that can produce breast milk. The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are all connected by thin ducts
  • Fat tissue: the adipose tissue that gives your breasts their volume. The fat fills the spaces between your breast’s glandular tissue
  • Connective tissue: the tissue that holds your breast tissue together and gives your breasts their form

There are no muscles in the breasts. However, your breast tissues are organised on top of your chest wall muscles, known as the pectoral muscles. Hence, your breast on the inside has your breast fat, lobes, lobules, and ducts sitting on top of your chest’s muscles.

On the outside, almost in the centre of the breast, you have a pigmented circular area on the breast’s skin (areola) with the nipple.

The size, volume, and positioning of these different types of breast components give each breast its unique shape, form, and size.

What Are Common Patient Goals?

When you think of what you might want your breasts look like, a lot of things can pop into your mind. How big should the breasts be? How far apart? What’s the right breast shape? Where should the breasts sit on the chest?

There isn’t a right or wrong answer, and there isn’t just one component. A combination of different breast characteristics can give you breasts that you like.

A common desire is having 45% of the volume of the breast above the nipple and 55% of the volume below. This would give a gentle ramp from the top of the breast to the location of the nipple.

This though may not meet everyone’s expectations and different people will look for a different result.

Things that need to be considered would include breast symmetry, volume, shape, elevation and position on the chest.

· Breast symmetry

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A common desire of patients is for the breasts to be symmetrical. But breasts usually have some amount of natural asymmetry, which is completely normal.

The breasts can look asymmetric when one breast is larger than the other or when one sits further down than the other. Significant cases of asymmetry can be a motivation for breast surgery for some patients.

· The breast size

Many patients desire breasts that are not too big or too small for their bodies. What defines “too big” or “too small” is personal preference and will vary from person to person.

While some people may desire for a dramatic change in their breast size, others wish to achieve greater body proportion by either reducing overly large breasts or increasing very small breasts. It also depends on the natural body type of the patient.

For example, full and voluminous breasts might fit the body of women with wide shoulders and a broad waist. The larger breast size can often better complement the dimensions of such body types.

On the other hand, the same breast size may not be desired for someone with a petite figure and a narrow waist. The breasts could look oversized which may not be good if the person wants a breast size that looks proportionate to their frame.

Whatever your goals, an experienced surgeon can cater to your desired breast size.

· Breast shape

There are a lot of different types and shapes of breasts out there. You have the round, archetype, the bell-shaped, and many other breast shapes.

The natural shape of the breast resembles a teardrop; the breast tissue starts slightly thinner at the top and then gradually slopes into more fullness below the nipple.

· Elevation

Greater breast elevation is one of the things that is commonly desired in breast surgery patients, especially in the case of mastopexy (breast lift). Losing a lot of weight, giving birth, or simply growing older can cause laxity in the breast skin.

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· Breast position on the chest

Then there is the position of the breasts on the chest. Whether they are high, low, close together, or far apart. Most patients desire for their breasts to be positioned somewhere in the middle of the chest; not too high up but not too low either.

· Nipple position

One of the breast cosmetic concerns that many women have is the position of their nipples.

In some cases, the nipple can hang low on the breast or point downward; this is known as nipple ptosis. In other cases, nipples may be too far apart or too close to one another.

· Breast firmness

Goals for breast surgery isn’t just about how your breasts look, it’s also about how your breasts feel to the touch.

While firm breasts are a sign of youth and health, a lot of people also prefer the breast to feel soft. You can discuss breast firmness with your surgeon to determine what might work for you.

· Comfort

And last but not least, comfort. Good results are often what the patient feels most comfortable with. This means they’re not too heavy on your chest, don’t cause discomfort, and that they suit your standards and aesthetic goals.

Deciding on a Surgical Option

Dr Jeremy Hunt performs a variety of plastic and reconstructive breast surgeries that can change different breast features.

1. Breast augmentation Mammoplasty

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A breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery, is a cosmetic surgery done to alter the size and shape of the breasts.

This can be done using fat transfer or using an implant, be it silicone or saline and each individual patient has a decision-making process as to where the incision will be located for insertion of the breast prosthesis, whether the implant is located above or below the muscle, the shape of the implant could be round or teardrop shaped and the fill of the implant could be silicone or saline.

Ultimately, the volume of the implant can range extensively from 100 cc to 800 cc and each of these will have an impact on the final result that is achieved.

Your breast implants can be placed either above the muscle (subglandular implants) or under the muscle (submuscular implants). The placement of your implants can affect how your breasts end up looking.

2. Breast Lift Mastopexy

A breast lift or a mastopexy is another breast cosmetic surgery that can reshape your breasts without using implants.

If your breasts have enough volume but you’re concerned about their position or laxity, this procedure might help. It can also raise a low nipple position if required.

If there has been descent or drop in the height of the nipple, be it due to ageing, weight loss or potential changes with pregnancy, breastfeeding and childbirth, then a breast-lift mastopexy may be necessary to achieve the desired breast shape.

There are several mastopexy techniques, including:

  • Lollipop lift
  • Crescent lift
  • Donut lift
  • Anchor lift

3. Breast reduction Mammoplasty

Breast reduction surgery or reduction mammaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that can permanently reduce the size of excessively heavy breasts. For some patients this can involve the removal of back, neck and shoulder pain caused by excessively heavy breasts.

During a breast reduction mammoplasty surgery, Dr Hunt removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to make your breasts look smaller and more proportional to the rest of your body. It can be a good option for some patients as it can relieve daily back, neck and shoulder pain and discomfort due to heavy breasts.

4. Breast reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgery is a cosmetic surgery done to reshape the breasts and rebuild damaged breast tissue.

Dr Hunt performs reconstructive surgery of the breasts for patients with tuberous breast deformity and patients who’ve undergone breast cancer surgery.

Breast reconstruction can:

  • Restore the breast’s symmetry
  • Fix breast anatomical deformities
  • Give the breasts more volume
  • Alter the shape of the breasts
  • Reduce the size of enlarged areolas

Dr Hunt custom tailors each cosmetic breast surgery to make sure you end up with the breast features that suit both your body and aesthetic goals.

FAQs About Breast Surgery Goals

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How do you make lax breasts look good?

  • Breast laxity cannot generally be addressed without surgery. A breast augmentation mammoplasty or lift mastopexy can be suitable for people who want to reduce the appearance of breast skin laxity.

What to do if one breast is bigger than the other?

  • It’s normal for one of your breasts to have a slightly different size than the other. Breasts are hardly ever 100% symmetrical. However, if you’re concerned that one breast is visibly larger than the other, you might consider getting breast surgery. Asymmetrical breasts can be surgically altered by making one of the breasts smaller (breast reduction mammoplasty surgery) to match the other, or one of the breasts bigger (breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery) to match the size and shape of the other.

Further Reading about Breast Procedures

Medical References

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Saggy Breasts needing a lift? – An Internal Bra can help avoid Bottoming Out after Breast Surgery

Saggy Breasts needing a lift? – An Internal Bra can help avoid Bottoming Out after Breast Surgery

If you have breast ptosis or laxity, then you might be considering getting a breast lift, also called mastopexy surgery. An internal bra lift is a fairly new type of breast lift mastopexy that you should consider when doing your research. It can be done alone or combined with breast augmentation or reduction mammoplasty.

The internal bra lift is a mastopexy option for women who are seeking a particularly durable and significant breast surgery option. Your inner breast tissue is tightened, lifted, and supported with strong sutures. The deep tissue is reshaped in a hammock-like shape to hold the breasts up and keep them up. It’s like a breast lift mastopexy with extra support.

The term ‘internal bra’ is used commonly in breast surgery and involves multiple techniques to provide internal suspension much like a bra would to the breast. This will help ensure that in the longer term the effects of gravity are minimised and the result that was achieved immediately after surgery is more likely to be maintained over the years.

Dr Hunt prefers to avoid using foreign materials in an Internal bra lift mastopexy

Different techniques can be used that involved the use of your own tissue, potentially sutures or stitches as well as the use of a number of mesh-typed materials that include mesh made from dissolving suture material, mesh that is made from silk as well as using what is known as a dermal substitute.

The challenges of using foreign material are that delayed infection and rejection rate are high so Dr Hunt’s preferred technique is to use the patients’ native tissue to provide internal support in combination with a series of sutures. When patients are researching the internal bra technique, it is imperative that people understand what is being used to achieve the result and be comfortable with the use of that method or material.

Some surgeons use a silk mesh or a cellular dermal matrix (ADM) to create an inner hammock for support. However, Dr Hunt and Dr Maryam avoid these to reduce the risk of infection and breast deformity. Synthetic mesh is reserved for more complicated cases or breast revision cases.

What Is an Internal Bra Lift?

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Breast Lift Sydney Dr Jeremy Hunt Before and After Photo - LIFT 11 Side

Internal bra surgery is a technique used to provide internal suspension to the breast tissue to maintain the results that are achieved in the short term into the longer term. It can be used in breast reduction mammoplasty, breast lift mastopexy, as well as breast augmentation mammoplasty and can involve manipulation of the breast tissue as well as internal sutures or the use of internal sling material.

An internal bra lift is a fairly new and innovative type of breast lifting technique (mastopexy). It can be done alone, through a periareolar incision, or as an add-on to other breast surgeries. It can be added to a traditional breast lift mastopexy, breast augmentation mammoplasty, or breast reduction mammoplasty. The internal breast fat and tissue are lifted, fixed high up with sutures, and held up with hammock-like support created from your own connective tissue.

The key feature of an internal bra lift is the hammock-like support. It is thought to delay breast ptosis and provide more durable results, as the tightened tissue holds the breasts up against gravity. As the name implies, it’s like having your breasts supported with a bra on the inside. The internal bra lift provides more long-lasting generally comparted to traditional mastopexy techniques.

An internal bra mastopexy can be done with any type of cosmetic breast surgery, with or without implants. If you get implants, then internal bra lifting helps reduce the risk of implants bottoming out. The suturing technique tightens the breast pocket around the implant, and the hammock holds it from below.

Dr Hunt and Dr Maryam both offer inner bra lift mastopexy surgery for their patients in Sydney, New South Wales. It might be combined with any other type of breast surgery, with or without implants.

Benefits of Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy

There are several advantages of internal bra lift mastopexy that make it a popular surgery among our breast surgery patients in Sydney, New South Wales.

It is important to note that not every patient is suitable for this procedure, and the benefits might not be the same for you as they are for someone else. But generally speaking, the benefits can include:

  • A breast lift that lasts longer
  • Less risk of implants bottoming out
  • More support at the inframammary fold to hold your breast shape and implants

Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy vs Traditional Breast Lift Mastopexy

An internal bra and traditional breast lift mastopexy are not necessarily mutually exclusive. The internal bra support can be added to a traditional breast mastopexy technique to maximise durability.

The internal bra lift mastopexy is considered to be more durable than traditional procedure. The inner tissue hammock provides extra support to the lower part of the breasts. It holds them up, counteracting the effect of gravity. This extra support at the inframammary line also helps prevent breast implants from bottoming out.

What is used for the Internal Bra?

The patients’ own breast tissue can be used to form an internal sling or internal bra and this is Dr Hunt’s preferred technique. This is then reinforced with dissolving sutures which will dissolve over 3 to 6 months by which stage the body’s own collagen has created its own internal bra support structures.

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

 Sydney Internal Bra Lift Dr Hunt

Who Needs an Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy?

Regardless of the type of breast surgery you’re planning to get, an additional internal bra lift is worth consideration.

You’d be a good candidate for an internal bra lift if:

An internal bra lift mastopexy is a great add-on to any cosmetic breast procedure. It can be good for women who don’t have severe breast ptosis, yet still need significant lifting and breast support.

A good candidate for mastopexy, of course, needs to be in good general health. You will also have to quit smoking at least 4 weeks before your surgery to avoid any complications.

How Is an Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy Performed

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

internal bra - how is it performed - Dr Huntinternal bra - How is it performed - Dr Hunt Sydneyinternal bra - How is it performed - Dr Hunt

Patient Case Study – Breast reduction mammoplasty with internal bra – F cup to D cup result 5 yrs post-surgery with maintenance of shape and elevation of the breast as it is supported internally by an internal bra of breast tissue

An internal bra lift mastopexy is done at the hospital, usually under general anaesthesia. This means that you will be put to sleep before the procedure and won’t feel anything during. The steps of the procedure depend on whether you are getting an internal bra lift alone or with another cosmetic breast procedure. Nevertheless, regardless of the combination, the surgical technique usually goes like this:

Through the breast incision, your plastic surgeon will release the breast skin from the underlying tissue. He or she will then manipulate the deeper layers, which include muscle, fat, and connective tissue. They will cut any excess tissue and tighten the rest. The connective tissue will be used to create hammock-like support that holds the breasts up in a high position. Your surgeon will then use strong sutures to fix everything to the chest wall.

After the breast is lifted to satisfaction, your surgeon will have to remove the excess breast skin. The skin is then tightened and the incision is closed with thin sutures.

Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy with Implants (Augmentation Mammoplasty)

If you’re getting implants with your internal bra lift (augmentation mammoplasty with mastopexy), then the implants will be inserted before the inner breast tissue is tightened. The breast tissue will be tightened around the bra to fix it in its place. An internal bra lift allows maximal support at the bottom pole of the breast implant.

Risks and Complications of Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy

Internal bra lift comes with the unlikely risk of complications. Some of the rare post-op complications that might occur with an internal bra lift include:

  • Wound infection (increased risk with synthetic mesh)
  • Loss of sensation around the nipples
  • Inability to breastfeed
  • Bleeding
  • Haematoma formation (blood collection)
  • Seroma formation (fluid collection)
  • Excessive scarring

Some of the long-term complications of internal bra lift and breast implants include:

  • Deformity due to fibrosis (especially with synthetic mesh)
  • Capsular contracture
  • Implant bottoming out (risk is less than with traditional bra lift)
  • Implant rupture
  • Implant malposition
  • Loss of sensation in part of the breast

To reduce the risks of internal bra lift mastopexy, even more, you should have a surgeon that is experienced in cosmetic breast surgery. Our surgeons, Dr Hunt and Dr Maryam have developed techniques to lift the breasts internally without a mesh. This is proven to reduce the risk of infection and breast deformity due to internal scarring.

Costs and Prices of Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy – How much is an Internal Bra Surgery?

drhunt blogpage img Saggy Breasts needing a lift? – An Internal Bra can help avoid Bottoming Out after Breast Surgery - 8

In all his breast surgery Dr Hunt provides this internal bra technique at no extra charge. Dr Hunt considers it a part of his surgical technique in all of his breast surgery cases.

Preparing for Your Surgeon Consultation

Your consultation will start with a few questions about your general health and your desired cosmetic goals. Expect Dr Hunt to ask you questions like:

  • What exactly is bothering you about your breasts?
  • What shape of breasts do you wish to have?
  • What size of breasts do you wish to have?
  • How important is a significant cleavage to you?
  • Do you have a problem with getting breast implants with your lift?
  • Do you have a problem with having a scar along the lower pole of your breast?

Then, Dr Hunt will examine your breasts to know exactly what can and cannot be done. He will then give you your options and you can discuss and choose a suitable surgical option together.

Internal Bra Lift Mastopexy FAQs – Questions about an Internal Bra

drhunt blogpage img Saggy Breasts needing a lift? – An Internal Bra can help avoid Bottoming Out after Breast Surgery - 8

Can you breastfeed after an internal bra lift (mastopexy)?

  • It is still very possible that you will still be able to breastfeed after an internal bra lift. Even though some of the milk ducts will be damaged, enough of them will stay intact so that you’ll be able to nurse your baby. Make sure you discuss this thoroughly with Dr Hunt before deciding on getting cosmetic breast surgery.

How long does an internal bra lift mastopexy last?

  • An internal bra lift is very durable. It can last up to 10 years or even more. Naturally, the breasts will still feel the effects of gravity as the years pass and you might choose to get breast revision surgery after a decade beyond your original procedure.

Can you get an internal bra lift mastopexy without implants?

  • You can get an internal bra lift with or without implants (augmentation mammoplasty surgery). In some cases, an implant will restore the lost breast volume. That’s why most women who choose to get an internal bra lift combine it with breast augmentation mammoplasty.

Is an internal bra lift better than a traditional mastopexy?

  • Each procedure has its strong points. An internal bra lift mastopexy can suit women who need moderate lifting but want to avoid a visible scar. A traditional “inverted-T” breast lift mastopexy, however, is more extensive. It allows more lifting and is hence a better option for women with severe breast ptosis.

How long does internal bra mastopexy surgery take?

  • The time for the procedure varies depending on your individual anatomy and the specific procedure that is being done. If you are getting breast augmentation mammoplasty with your breast lift mastopexy, then expect the procedure time to be longer – maybe 2 to 3 hours.

How do I keep my breast implants elevated?

  • The effect of gravity cannot be turned off after surgery and to support the breast tissue the surgeon will use the internal bra technique. The added support offered by external bra as appropriate size and fit in the longer term will aid the longevity of your breast surgery results. If you don’t wear a bra and offer support to the breast on a regular basis then the effects of gravity will be more extensive and the implant and breast tissue will tend to drop.

What is an inframammary incision?

  • Surgeons will call the fold underneath the breast the inframammary fold (IMF). When we placed a breast implant via an incision in this fold we term that incision location as an inframammary incision.

What does breast implant bottoming-out look like?

  • The challenge with breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery is that the skin envelope that contains the breast tissue now needs to carry the volume of the breast tissue and the breast implants. At times, the implant can slip from behind the breast tissue and descend below the fold underneath the breast and this creates the deformity known as a ‘double-bubble’. In other cases, the breast implant weight can create too much stretch on the lower pole of the breast with the appearance of the breast tissue descending below the nipple and the nipple appearing too high on the breast mound. The appearance is described as ‘bottoming-out’.

How do you fix bottom-out breast implant?

  • There are multiple techniques to address the bottoming-out of a breast implant and it certainly will require revisional surgery. The primary objective of the revisional surgery though will be to achieve the desired breast cup size for the patient and this may involve increasing the size of implant potentially decreasing the size of implant or using internal suspension techniques to support the implant. Revisional breast surgery is far more complicated than the initial implant insertion and needs to be specifically tailored to the patients’ needs as well as their tissue volume.

Will bottoming out get worse?

  • Once the process of bottoming out has begun it is a slow but steady descent of the implant. The only solution is to provide long-term external support to minimise the progression of bottoming out and the only way to correct the problem is through a surgical revision.

How do I keep my breast implants from dropping?

  • Support is the key to avoiding descent and dropping breast implants as well as natural breast tissue. Dr Hunt’s advice to his patients is that they continue to wear an appropriate size and fitted bra to offer external support to the breast in the longer term.

Are there internal stitches with breast augmentation mammoplasty?

  • Following a breast augmentation mammoplasty, a pocket has been created to place the implant. The lower portion of this pocket needs to be supported in the longer term by re-establishing an internal bra. The internal bra would involve sutures and stitches that will re-attach the ligaments and breast tissue to the chest wall to minimise the chance of bottoming out and double-bubble deformity.

Is an internal bra lift mastopexy painful?

  • The use of an internal bra technique does not increase the postoperative pain from my patients and this worthwhile procedure does not increase the length of recovery. Like any other surgery, an internal breast bra lift can be associated with a certain level of pain. In most cases, the pain is very well tolerated. Regular painkillers, like paracetamol, are usually enough to help you through a painless recovery.

Is breast mastopexy safer than implants?

  • Both breast implants (augmentation mammoplasty and a breast lift mastopexy have a similar risk profile. However, implants tend to bring along more long-term complications. This includes implant malposition, bottoming out, capsular contracture, and implant rupture.

When can you stop wearing a sports bra after breast augmentation mammoplasty?

  • In the short term after breast augmentation mammoplasty for approximately 6 weeks, Dr Hunt encourages his patients to wear a soft, non-structured no-wire bra. The sports bra allows freedom of movement as well as the resolution of swelling in the first six weeks. After the six-week period when swelling has resolved patients can purchase bras and at that stage, Dr Hunt would encourage them to use any form of bra that suits their lifestyle, needs and requirements.

Further Reading about Breast Surgery

Medical Sources about an internal bra and breast surgery:

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Case Study Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty (Lift with Implants) # 1

Case Study Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty (Lift with Implants) # 1

Patient Consultation – Concerns: Low nipple position and reduction of upper pole fullness after breastfeeding

The patient was a 33-year-old who had noticed changes in the shape of her breast following her pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding of her two children. The breast lift with implants (mastopexy with augmentation mammoplasty) was a suitable option for her particular case.

Pre-pregnancy she comfortably filled a C cup though, she now felt that she filled a B cup and was particularly concerned at drop in the height of her nipple as well as loss of fullness in the upper pole of the breast.

Surgical Solution: A Breast Lift with Implants – Augmentation Mammoplasty and Mastopexy Surgery

She consulted with Dr Hunt regarding a potential breast lift mastopexy combined with a breast augmentation mammoplasty to increase the volume of her breast as well as elevate the height of the nipple. The patient decided to have an augmentation mammoplasty with mastopexy (a breast lift with implants).

She also underwent an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) during the same surgical procedure to address the concerns in her lower abdomen.

Dr Jeremy Hunt performs a Breast Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty Surgery

Six months following her breast lift with implants (augmentation mammoplasty with mastopexy) surgery the scars are beginning to fade and she now fills a C cup if not small D cup. She has soft and mobile breast mounds bilaterally with intact sensation to the nipple on both sides. The patient had 205cc teardrop-shaped silicone implants inserted under the pectoralis muscle to create the C cup she desired.

Results of Breast Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty Surgery – Case Study

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Breast Lift Surgery Front - Dr Jeremy Hunt

Breast Lift Surgery Sideview Dr Jeremy Hunt

Further Reading

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Plastic Surgeon

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia.

He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast lift (mastopexy) is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.