Breast lift (Mastopexy)
The best breast reduction should do more than relieve symptoms. My goal is to create lighter, more comfortable breasts that remain balanced and proportionate over the long term.
Introduction
Breast lift (mastopexy) surgery is performed to reshape and elevate breasts that have descended over time. Common causes include pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, and the natural ageing process.
A breast lift restores breast position, reshapes the breast mound, repositions the nipple, and removes excess skin where required. It can significantly improve breast shape and proportion.
What a breast lift alone cannot achieve is significant fullness in the upper portion of the breast or marked accentuation of cleavage.
In selected patients, fat transfer may provide a modest improvement in upper breast contour. Patients seeking greater upper breast fullness or more noticeable cleavage may benefit from the addition of breast implants.
Dr Raymond approaches mastopexy with an emphasis on proportion, scar placement, and long-term breast shape, tailoring the procedure to each patient's body shape and goals.
THE PROCEDURE
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic with Dr Raymond's experienced teams at Hunter Valley Private Hospital and Newcastle Private Hospital.
The procedure typically takes two and a half to three hours, depending on the degree of lift required and whether liposuction or fat transfer is used as an adjunct.
Surgery involves reshaping the breast tissue, repositioning the nipple–areola complex, and removing excess skin and lower breast tissue as required.
Patients usually stay one night in hospital. Dr Raymond does not routinely use surgical drains. Patients wake from surgery wearing their post-operative bra, which we provide.
SCAR PATTERNS
Several scar patterns may be used depending on breast shape, skin quality, and the degree of lift required.
These include:
- Periareolar scar
- Vertical scar
- Wise-pattern (anchor) scar
For patients requiring a significant lift, the anchor pattern is often the most reliable technique for achieving optimal reshaping.
In selected patients requiring a more modest lift, a vertical approach can reduce scar burden while still achieving excellent results.
The most appropriate scar pattern is determined during consultation.
THE PROCESS
Breast lift surgery begins with a detailed consultation process.
Dr Raymond assesses breast shape, degree of droop, skin quality, nipple position, symmetry, and overall body proportions.
One of the most important decisions is whether a breast lift alone will achieve your goals, or whether fat transfer or implants should be incorporated to restore volume or improve upper breast fullness. Understanding these differences allows patients to choose the procedure that best matches their priorities and avoid unnecessary surgery.
Measurements and clinical photographs are taken, and the anticipated scar pattern, recovery, and risks are explained in detail.
Breastfeeding and Nipple Sensation
Techniques are used to preserve tissue beneath the nipple–areola complex wherever possible.
However, breastfeeding cannot be guaranteed following mastopexy. Patients for whom future breastfeeding is a priority are generally advised to delay surgery.
Most patients retain nipple sensation, though permanent changes remain a recognised risk and are discussed during consultation.
THE RECOVERY
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected during the first one to two weeks.
Most patients:
- Return to non-physical work within one to two weeks
- Resume light exercise after four weeks
- Gradually return to full activity over six weeks
All sutures are dissolving.
Scheduled LED light therapy, scar care guidance, and post-operative nursing support are provided.
Most breast settling occurs within six weeks, with further maturation over three to six months. Scars continue to mature for 12–18 months.
Treatment Risks
All surgery carries risk. Risks specific to breast lift surgery may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Unfavourable scarring
- Asymmetry
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Difficulty breastfeeding
- Partial or complete nipple–areola complex necrosis
- Dissatisfaction with size or shape
- Need for further surgery
These risks are discussed in detail during consultation. Further information is available on our dedicated Treatment Risks page.
Pricing
Breast lift pricing is individualised and depends on whether the procedure meets Medicare criteria and whether you have appropriate private health insurance.
Pricing is provided as an all-inclusive estimate incorporating surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital admission, post-operative garments, routine follow-up appointments, scar care products, LED light therapy, and ongoing nursing support.
Medically Indicated Breast Lift
For patients who meet Medicare criteria and have appropriate private health insurance, Medicare and private health fund rebates may apply. Eligibility is assessed during consultation.
As a guide:
- Total upfront cost: approximately $12,500–14,500
- Estimated rebates: approximately $1,200–1,600
- Estimated out-of-pocket cost: approximately $10,900–13,300
Cosmetic Breast Lift
For patients who do not meet Medicare criteria or who do not have private health insurance:
As a guide:
- Total all-inclusive cost: approximately $16,000–18,000
A personalised written quotation is provided following consultation. Medicare eligibility is assessed where appropriate, and all treatment options and associated costs will be discussed before proceeding.
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