Key Takeaways
- A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure to shape and reposition the breasts by removing excess skin.
- Candidates for a breast lift may include individuals with downward-pointing nipples, stretched areolas, or loss of breast tone due to various life factors.
- The breast lift procedure at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery involves general anesthesia and typically takes 2 to 3 hours.
- Scarring is a common concern, and the visibility of scars will depend on the incision pattern used during the surgery.
- Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, led by Dr Mark Doyle, offers personalised treatment plans for breast lift procedures.
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to shape and reposition the breasts by removing excess skin and adjusting the surrounding tissue.
This operation is often considered by individuals who experience changes in breast position due to factors such as pregnancy, ageing, weight fluctuations, or genetics. The surgical goal of breast lift surgery is to create a more elevated breast position by addressing stretched skin, changes in nipple placement, and overall breast shape.
How Does a Breast Lift Work?
So, how does a breast lift work? This procedure involves the removal of excess skin, reshaping of breast tissue, and repositioning of the nipple and areola. The remaining tissue is tightened to support the breast’s new shape. Different incision patterns are used depending on the individual’s unique needs, with recommended techniques including:
- Peri-areolar (donut): An incision around the edge of the areola.
- Vertical (lollipop): An incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.
- Inverted-T (anchor): Includes both of the above, plus a horizontal incision along the breast crease.
Who is a Candidate for a Breast Lift?
Individuals may consider a breast lift to address downward-pointing nipples, stretched areolas, loss of breast tone, or asymmetry. These changes can result from life stages like breastfeeding, natural ageing and genetic factors.
The Breast Lift Procedure Gold Coast
At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, breast lift procedures are performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital. The operation typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. During surgery, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple-areola complex is repositioned. The incisions are then closed with sutures.
The approach is tailored to the individual’s anatomy and preferred outcome, with a focus on creating a balanced and symmetrical result.
Will a Breast Lift Leave Scars?
Many patients query, ‘Will a breast lift leave scars?’. As with any surgical procedure, a breast lift involves scarring. The visibility and location of scars depend on the incision pattern used. Initially, scars may appear red or raised, but typically fade over time. Proper post-operative care can support healing, and your surgeon can discuss expected scarring during the consultation.
Recovery and Aftercare After a Breast Lift
Recovery typically involves a few days of rest, with swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the early weeks. A compression bra is usually recommended, and strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks. Follow-up care and wound management are part of the process, with full recovery taking several months.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like all surgery, breast lifts carry potential risks. These may include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, asymmetry, scarring, and delayed wound healing. All potential risks and complications are discussed in detail during the consultation process.
Combining a Breast Lift with a Breast Augmentation
For those seeking both elevation and increased volume, a breast lift can be combined with a breast augmentation. This approach may be considered when volume reduction in the breasts is a concern, particularly after pregnancy or weight loss.
Why Choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Breast Lift?
Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is led by Dr Mark Doyle, a specialist plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience and FRACS (Plas) accreditation. Dr Doyle performs a wide range of breast procedures and takes a personalised approach to each patient’s treatment plan, guided by extensive surgical experience.
Schedule Your Consultation
To explore whether breast lift surgery is appropriate for your needs, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr Doyle at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
