Breast Mastopexy Gold Coast

Having a baby, losing weight, or getting older can change the size and shape of your breasts. A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is an option to change the shape of breasts and lift the nipple position.

It can also be paired with a breast augmentation mammoplasty (implants) for a size increase. This is known as a single stage surgery.

Dr Hertess FRACS(Plas) is a Specialist Plastic surgeon with over 27 years of experience in breast mastopexy surgery.  She commonly performs this procedure in accredited facilities on the Gold Coast including John Flynn Private Hospital and Miami Private Hospital.

What is Mastopexy?

Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissues, aiming to change the shape and elevation of the breasts.

The procedure can be performed with or without implants, depending on your desired outcome.

Breast Mastopexy without Augmentation Mammoplasty (Implants)

Mastopexy without implants focuses solely on reshaping and lifting the breasts, without adding additional volume. This option can be suitable for women who do not wish to change their current breast size but want to lift the position of the breast and nipple.

Breast Mastopexy with Augmentation Mammoplasty (Implants)

For those looking for both a lift and an increase in size, a mastopexy with implants (augmentation mammoplasty) may be the appropriate choice. During this surgery, implants are placed over or under the chest muscle to change the size and projection in addition to the elevation of the breasts.

Who is Breast Mastopexy Surgery for?

. It may be right for you if:

• Your breast tissue sits below the breast crease
• Your nipples are pointing downwards rather than forward
• You have lost volume in your breasts

Mastopexy Incisions & Techniques

Lollipop technique (Vertical Mastopexy)

The preferred technique for breast lift mastopexy surgery used by Dr. Hertess is the lollipop technique, also known as a vertical mastopexy. This approach involves making an incision around the areola and then vertically down to the breast crease, resembling a lollipop shape.

Anchor technique (Inverted-T Mastopexy)

This technique involves an additional horizontal incision along the breast crease, creating an anchor shape. This technique is more commonly used in breast reduction mammoplasty surgery.

What Does Mastopexy Surgery Involve?

Consultation

Before your surgery, Dr. Hertess will discuss your desired outcome and perform a thorough examination to determine the best technique for you. She will also go over any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure.

Preoperative Preparation

Prior to your surgery, you will get your photos taken and discuss your desired results.

You may need to undergo a series of pre-operative tests and screenings.

The Procedure

The mastopexy surgery itself is typically performed as a day surgery under general anaesthesia in an accredited facility on the Gold Coast.  The surgery can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.

Recovery

After the procedure, you will need to rest and recover for a few days. You may experience some bruising and swelling, but this will subside over time. Dr. Hertess will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.

It can take 6 weeks to fully recover from your surgery. The breast lift mastopexy surgery recovery timeline is as follows:

• Day of mastopexy surgery - you will need a lift home after your procedure and will be wearing a compression bra. When you get home it's important that you rest and take it easy.
• Day 1 after mastopexy surgery - you will be the most sore for 1-3 after your surgery. Pain can be well-managed with pain medication prescribed by Dr Hertess.
• 1 week post-surgery - pain should be a lot less intense, though you will still be swollen and bruised. Light activities such as walking can be resumed. Driving can be resumed if your reflexes are not limited by pain.
• 4-6 weeks post-surgery - most normal activities can resume, including light exercise. You will continue to wear your compression bra until around 6 weeks.
• 6 months after mastopexy - full recovery and results are visible.

Breast Lift Mastopexy Before and After Photos

Before undergoing breast lift mastopexy surgery, it's important to have realistic expectations of the potential results. It is also helpful to see before and after photos of previous patients who have had the procedure.

At Dr Hertess' practice on the Gold Coast, we have numerous before and after photos available for you to view during your consultation.

The following images are Dr Hertess' real patients, before and after mastopexy surgery.

See full galleries for Breast Lift mastopexy with Implants or Breast Lift mastopexy without implants. 

Breast Lift Mastopexy FAQs

How long does a breast lift mastopexy last?

The results of a breast lift mastopexy can last for many years. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid significant fluctuations in weight to maintain the results. Over time, ageing and gravity can affect the look of the breasts. 

Will I still have feeling in my nipples after a breast lift?

It is possible that you may experience some changes in nipple sensation after a breast lift mastopexy, but this is usually temporary and sensation can return as the breasts heal.

Do nipples get smaller after breast lift mastopexy?

The nipples don't change size after surgery though an areola reduction can be considered at the time of consultation with Dr Hertess. This can reduce the size of the areola but will not necessarily change the size of the nipple unless this is requested.

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift mastopexy?

Breastfeeding is often still possible after a mastopexy, and it's important to discuss any future plans for pregnancy and breastfeeding with Dr Hertess before undergoing surgery. In some cases, certain techniques may be used that preserve the ability to breastfeed.

Can I combine a breast lift mastopexy with other procedures?

Yes, breast lift mastopexy surgery can be performed in combination with other procedures such as breast augmentation mammoplasty, breast implant removal or abdominoplasty surgery. This will be discussed during your consultation with Dr Hertess.

How painful is breast mastopexy recovery?

Pain is subjective and varies from person to person. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising can be expected after surgery but this is usually well-managed with pain medication prescribed by Dr Hertess.

Is a mastopexy covered by Medicare?

Breast lift mastopexy surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore is not covered by Medicare. However, in some cases where there is significant issues causing physical discomfort or pain, a breast reduction mammoplasty may be partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance.

How many sizes do you lose with a breast lift mastopexy?

A breast lift (mastopexy) is not designed to affect the size of the breasts. However, patients may experience a change in cup size after surgery; this is a result of removing loose skin rather than volume.

How much does a breast lift mastopexy cost in Australia?

There are many factors that influence the cost of a breast lift (mastopexy), including the complexity of the case, the techniques used, and whether any additional procedures are performed at the same time. However, it is important to schedule a consultation with Dr Hertess to get an accurate quote based on your individual needs.

Book a Consultation with Dr Hertess for Breast Lift Mastopexy Surgery Gold Coast

Breast lift mastopexy surgery can help change the appearance of breasts by removing excess skin and changing breast shape and position. If you are considering breast mastopexy surgery, the first step is to make an enquiry and schedule a consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Hertess, on the Gold Coast.