Led by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS)
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure performed by a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon to raise and reshape breasts that have descended or lost firmness over time. Changes in breast position and contour commonly occur due to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and genetic factors.
Breast lift surgery focuses on improving breast position and shape by removing excess skin and supporting the underlying breast tissue. It does not significantly change breast volume but aims to restore a more elevated and proportionate breast appearance. The nipple and areola may also be repositioned to align with the new breast shape.
Breast lift surgery is a personalised procedure. The technique used depends on factors such as breast size, degree of skin laxity, nipple position, and overall breast shape. During consultation, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon assesses these factors to determine the most appropriate approach for safe lifting, balanced contour, and predictable healing.
A crescent breast lift involves a small incision along the upper edge of the areola. This technique is typically suitable for mild breast descent and may be used when only a subtle lift is required. It offers limited lifting capacity and is not appropriate for more significant ptosis.
Also known as a periareolar lift, this technique uses an incision around the edge of the areola. It allows for modest lifting and reshaping and may also address areolar size. This approach is generally suited to mild to moderate breast descent.
The vertical breast lift uses an incision around the areola with a vertical line extending to the breast crease. This technique allows for greater reshaping and lift, making it suitable for moderate breast descent. It provides improved contour while limiting incision length compared to more extensive approaches.
The anchor, or inverted-T, breast lift involves incisions around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the breast fold. This technique is typically used for more significant breast descent or excess skin. It allows for substantial reshaping and elevation when required based on clinical assessment.
Candidates should be in good general health and have no unmanaged medical conditions that could increase surgical risk. Maintaining a stable body weight is important, as significant fluctuations can affect breast shape and long-term results. Realistic expectations about surgical outcomes and recovery are also essential.
Suitability for a breast lift is determined through clinical assessment of anatomy, skin quality, and degree of breast descent, rather than age alone.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, every mastopexy surgery is performed with the utmost care and precision. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in a typical breast lift procedure:
Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. An experienced anaesthetic team monitors you closely during surgery. Your anaesthetist will review your medical history and discuss anaesthesia considerations before the operation.
Incision placement depends on the breast lift technique required. Incisions may be positioned around the areola, vertically on the breast, along the breast fold or a combination of these. Your surgeon will explain incision options and expected scar placement during consultation.
During surgery, breast tissue is reshaped to create a more elevated and balanced contour. This step supports improved breast position and proportion while maintaining blood supply to the nipple and surrounding tissue.
Excess skin is removed to address laxity and allow the breasts to sit higher on the chest wall. Skin removal is carefully planned to support healing and maintain breast shape over time.
Incisions are closed using layered sutures to reduce tension and support wound healing. Dressings and a supportive garment are applied before recovery, and aftercare instructions are provided to guide healing.
It’s important to remember that each mastopexy procedure is customised to the patient’s individual needs and goals. The exact steps of your procedure may vary slightly. We will ensure you understand your personalised surgical plan before the day of your procedure.
Mr Khan then moved to Perth, Australia in 2007. He was selected for the highly competitive specialist training programme in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery in 2014. After the successful completion of his fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in early 2019, he travelled to Brisbane and Newcastle Upon Tyne, England for post-training fellowships in Head & Neck Surgery, Microsurgery, Facial palsy and Sarcoma.
Mr Khan has published in the peer-reviewed Plastic Surgery journal, presented at national and international conferences and has been part of the training faculty in international plastic surgery flap reconstruction courses in the UK.
Qualifications:
Recovery after a breast lift surgery takes time and patience. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we are committed to supporting you throughout every stage of your recovery.
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions covering wound care, medications, warning signs to watch for, and follow-up appointments. Following these guidelines closely is essential for optimal healing and results.
Some discomfort is normal after surgery and can be effectively managed with prescribed medication. We will also advise you on proper positioning when sitting or lying down to help minimise discomfort.
Proper care of your incisions is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. This may include cleaning the area, changing dressings, and applying treatments as directed.
Physical activity should be limited during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, and gradually resume activities based on our team’s guidance.
Every patient’s recovery is unique and depends on individual health and the procedure performed. Our team will closely monitor your progress and remain available to answer any questions or concerns throughout your recovery.
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks and complications may include:
A breast lift works by addressing excess skin and reshaping the underlying breast tissue to reposition the breasts higher on the chest wall. During the procedure, the Specialist Plastic Surgeon removes stretched skin and tightens supporting tissue to improve breast contour. The nipple and areola may also be repositioned to align with the new breast shape. A breast lift focuses on position and shape rather than increasing breast volume.
The results of a breast lift can be long lasting, but they are not permanent. Ageing, gravity, weight changes, pregnancy, and skin quality can affect breast position over time. Maintaining a stable weight, wearing appropriate breast support, and following post-operative advice from your plastic surgery clinic in Perth may help preserve results. Some patients may consider revision surgery years later if breast position changes significantly.
A breast lift may be suitable for individuals who experience breast drooping, loss of firmness, or nipple position that sits below the breast crease. Suitability depends on factors such as skin quality, breast volume, general health, and lifestyle considerations. A consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is required to assess anatomy, discuss goals, and determine whether a breast lift procedure is appropriate for your circumstances.
A breast lift does not significantly change breast size. The procedure focuses on improving breast position and shape by removing excess skin and reshaping existing tissue. Some patients may perceive a change in fullness due to improved contour, but volume remains largely the same. If increased or reduced breast size is desired, this may be discussed during consultation as part of a combined or alternative breast augmentation procedure.
Breast lift surgery cost in Perth varies depending on individual anatomy, the extent of lifting required, and the surgical technique used. Costs may include the surgeon’s fee, hospital and anaesthesia fees, and post-operative care. A personalised cost estimate is provided following your consultation once a surgical plan has been developed.
A breast lift focuses on raising and reshaping the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening tissue, without significantly increasing volume. Breast augmentation increases breast size using implants or fat transfer. In some cases, both procedures may be combined if volume loss and breast descent are present.
