What is Breast Lift Surgery?
The medical term for Breast lift surgery is mastopexy. It is a cosmetic procedure that involves reshaping and lifting the breasts. This is often the surgery of choice for women who have experienced changes in breast volume and position due to factors such as natural ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss.
The goal of the procedure is to enhance the natural shape of the breasts and restore a more proportionate and balanced appearance to the chest.
What are the benefits of Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast Lift Surgery Guide
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Download the 2023 Breast Lift Surgery Guide
This complete guide to Breast Lift Surgery covers everything you need to know about this procedure, including:
- Your surgery explained
- How to assess if you are a good candidate.
- Planning for your surgery
- Answers to most frequently asked questions.
- Before and after gallery
Breast Lift Procedure
Dr Snell performs this surgery under general anesthesia. The procedure generally takes about two to three hours to complete.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision around the nipple, down the front of the breast, and possibly along the underside of the breast. The surgeon will then remove excess skin and tissue, reshape the breast tissue, and lift the breasts to a higher position on the chest. Then the surgeon will use either sutures or staples to close the incisions.
Am I a good candidate for a breast lift?
The best candidates for a mastopexy are;
- Healthy women who have realistic expectations for the procedure
- Patients should be in good physical and mental health and have fully developed breasts.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should wait until after you have finished nursing to have the surgery.
- It is important to discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon to determine if this surgery is the right choice for you.
Breast Lift Recovery
After breast lift surgery, you will need to take some time off from work as well as, other physical activities to allow your body to heal. You may experience swelling, bruising, and pain for the first few days after the procedure. You will also need to wear a special bra to support your breasts. Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to care for your incisions and how to manage any discomfort. It is important to follow these instructions closely to ensure not only a smooth recovery, but optimal results.
Risks and complications of Breast Lift
Like any surgery, breast lift surgery carries some risks and complications. These may include;
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- And, changes in nipple sensation.
- In rare cases, the incisions may not heal properly or the breasts may not be lifted to the desired position.
You can learn more about the potenital risks and complications of surgery on our dedicated risks page.
It is important to discuss the risks and complications of breast lift surgery with your surgeon before the procedure to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared.
Breast Lift Cost
The cost of breast lift surgery can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience and reputation, and the location of the surgery.
- A low-cost Mastopexy procedure with a less experienced surgeon may cost around $8,500 to $12,000.
- A procedure with an experienced and well-respected plastic surgeon may cost between $12,000 and $15,000.
- Whereas, a more complex procedure involving a renowned plastic surgeon who specializes in Mastopexy procedures may cost up to $15,000 or higher.
Visit our cost page for more information.
Before and After Breast Lift Photos
Before and after photos can be a helpful tool in understanding the potential results of breast lift surgery. These photos show the transformation of a woman’s breasts before and after the procedure.
However, it is important to keep in mind that results can vary from patient to patient and that no surgery is without risks.
Choosing a Breast Lift Surgeon
It is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon for your procedure. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified and has a track record of successful breast lift surgeries.
You should also consider the surgeon’s reputation in the medical community and their level of communication and attention to your individual needs.
Planning your Breast Lift Journey
Before undergoing your mastopexy procedure, it is important to carefully plan your patient journey. This includes;
- Researching the procedure
- Finding a qualified surgeon
- Getting a referral from a General practitioner
- Discussing your goals and expectations with your surgeon
- Organizing time off work and other commitments
- Getting your house in order before surgery
- Organizing someone to drive you both to and from the hospital.
How to find a Breast Lift surgeon in Melbourne
There are several steps you can take to find the right Breast Lift surgeon for you. Start by asking for recommendations from either friends or family members who have had surgery. This can be a good starting point.
Your surgical results will depend heavily on the surgeon you choose. A Breast Lift is a major procedure, and you need a reputable, qualified surgeon.
In Australia, a plastic surgeon must have the following qualifications:
- An undergraduate degree in medicine, typically a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree.
- A minimum of two years of general medical training as a junior hospital doctor.
- Completion of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) surgical education and training program, which includes at least five years of accredited surgical training, with at least two years in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
- Fellowship with the RACS in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Plastic surgeons in Australia must also be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and adhere to the standards and guidelines set forth by the Medical Board of Australia.
We also suggest you consider scheduling consultations with several different surgeons to not only get a better understanding of your options but to also find the best surgeon for you. What’s best for someone else may not be what’s best for you. You need to trust your gut and pay attention to how they make you feel. Its important that you feel confident and comfortable in the surgeons hands.
Most Popular Breast Lift FAQs
There are many questions that people have when considering undergoing breast lift surgery. Some FAQs include:
How long does breast lift surgery take?
- Typically, it takes about two to three hours to complete this surgery.
- The actual surgery time may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual patient.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast lift surgery?
- In most cases, breast lift surgery does not affect a woman’s ability to breastfeed, but it is still possible.
- It is still important to discuss your plans for breastfeeding with your surgeon before the procedure. This ensures that the incision site is chosen in a way that will not interfere with milk production.
How long will my breast lift results last?
- The results, although generally long-lasting, are not permanent.
- The breasts continue to age over time, and the effects of gravity and other factors will most like cause the breasts to sag again.
- To maintain the results of the surgery, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle, including; maintaining a stable weight and avoiding activities that could damage the breasts, such as smoking and sun exposure.
Will my insurance cover breast lift surgery?
- In most cases, this procedure is considered elective and is not covered by health insurance.
- In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of breast lift surgery if it is medically necessary, such as to correct a deformity or to reconstruct the breasts after a mastectomy. It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what is covered under your policy.
How much pain will I experience after breast lift surgery?
- The amount of pain can vary from person to person, but it is typically manageable with pain medication.
- Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to manage any discomfort and may prescribe pain medication to help you through the recovery period.
What is the recovery time for breast lift surgery?
- The recovery time after breast lift surgery can vary from person to person.
- It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care and to take it easy during the recovery period to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Will I have scars after breast lift surgery?
- All surgery leaves scars, and breast lift surgery is no exception.
- The size and location of the scars will depend on the type of incision your surgeon uses and the individual patient’s healing process.
- In most cases, the scars will fade over time and become less noticeable.
Can I sleep on my stomach after breast lift surgery?
- In sort the answer is no.
- It is generally not recommended to sleep on your stomach after breast lift surgery.
- This position puts unnecessary pressure on your breasts and will likely cause discomfort.
- It can also compromise your results.
- Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on the best sleeping position to use during the recovery period.
Can I exercise after breast lift surgery?
- It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care, which may include limitations on physical activity.
- In general, you should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks after breast lift surgery to allow your body to heal.
- Once you have been cleared by your surgeon, you can gradually resume your normal exercise routine.
- It is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard too soon.
It is important to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your surgeon to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared for the procedure.
Dr Broughton Snell
MED0001190266
Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne Victoria
Dr Snell is a Melbourne Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon providing a wide range of services from skin cancer and hand surgery to cosmetic surgery for the face, nose, breast and body.
Mr Snell is able to care for both public and private patients in Melbourne hospitals.
Disclaimer
Please note that any content provided on our website is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this website. The author and publisher do not guarantee the accuracy, applicability, or completeness of the information presented herein. All actions taken based on the information in this article are at your own risk.