- What Is Augmentation Mastopexy?
- How Can a Breast Lift with Implants Help Me?
- Breast Lift with Implants Consultation
- Breast Lift with Implants Procedure
- Breast Lift with Implants Recovery
- Breast Lift with Implants Results
- Breast Lift with Implants Complications
- Breast Lift with Implants Scars
- Breast Lift with Implants Before & After Photos
- Breast Lift with Implants Surgical Video
- Breast Lift with Implants Cost
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Steve Merten
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Steve Merten, MBBS, FRACS:
- Registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon
- AHPRA MED0001155669
Education and Training:
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery from Sydney University in 1991
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2001
- Fellowships in Aesthetic (Cosmetic) Surgery at the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery and Monash University
- Fellowship in Breast Reconstruction at the University of British Columbia, Canada
What Is Augmentation Mastopexy?
Augmentation mastopexy is the medical term for a combined procedure that addresses both breast volume and breast position in a single operation. It brings together two distinct techniques:
- Breast augmentation – placing an implant to restore or increase breast volume and change breast shape.
- Mastopexy (breast lift) – removing excess skin, reshaping breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position on the chest wall.
When performed together, this combined approach can address concerns that neither procedure alone would fully correct. A breast implant alone does not address skin laxity or nipple position. A breast lift alone does not restore volume. For patients whose concerns include both, augmentation mastopexy may be the procedure worth discussing with a surgeon.
This procedure is also referred to as a breast aug with lift, breast augmentation and lift, breast uplift with implants, mastopexy with implants, or breast uplift and enlargement. All of these terms describe the same combined operation.
Am I a Suitable Candidate?
Every patient is different, and suitability is determined during a formal consultation with Dr Steve Merten. Patients who enquire about breast lift with implants in Sydney often present with one or more of the following:
- Breast volume that has decreased following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss
- Breast skin that has become stretched, loose, or lacking firmness
- Nipples that sit lower than desired, or point downward
- One breast noticeably different in position or size from the other
- A desire to address both volume and position in a single operation rather than staged procedures
Whether augmentation mastopexy – or a breast lift alone, implant alone, or staged approach – is most appropriate will be determined at your consultation. There is no single approach that suits all patients.
What Changes May Be Discussed with Breast Lift and Implants Surgery
For patients whose concerns include both volume loss and skin laxity, a breast augmentation and lift may address things that a single procedure cannot. Potential outcomes discussed during consultation may include:
- Restoration of breast volume that has been lost through pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight change
- Changes in breast shape and projection
- Elevation of the nipple and areola to a higher position on the chest wall
- Reduction of areola size, where appropriate
- Removal of excess, stretched skin which may change overall breast contour
- Reduction of skin irritation beneath the breast fold in some cases
Important: surgical outcomes vary between patients. The above represents the types of changes that may be discussed during your consultation – not a guarantee of results. Dr Steve Merten will discuss realistic expectations for your individual anatomy and circumstances.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
A consultation with Dr Steve Merten is the starting point for understanding whether a breast lift with implants in Sydney may be suitable for you. During your appointment, Dr Merten will:
- Discuss your concerns, your goals, and what you hope to achieve
- Review your medical history, including current medications, allergies, and any previous breast surgery
- Perform a physical examination to assess breast tissue quality, skin laxity, nipple position, and overall anatomy
- Explain the procedure options available – which may include mastopexy with implants, a lift alone, an implant alone, or a staged approach – depending on your anatomy and goals
- Discuss implant types, profiles, and placement options where relevant
- Explain the surgical process, recovery timeline, and potential risks and complications
- Answer any questions you have about the procedure
In some cases, imaging or additional assessments may be arranged before proceeding. A second consultation is standard practice at Pure Aesthetics, giving you time to review information and consider your decision without pressure.
Recovery After Breast Lift with Implants
Recovery from augmentation mastopexy in Sydney takes several weeks. The timeline below is a general guide – individual recovery varies depending on overall health, the extent of surgery, and adherence to post-operative instructions.
Recovery timeline
Immediately After Surgery
- Supportive dressings are applied and worn initially
- Most patients experience nausea as the anaesthetic wears off – this is expected and managed with medication
- Pain, tightness, and swelling are normal in the first 24 to 48 hours
- A soft support bra is worn for approximately six weeks post-operatively
- Dissolving sutures are used – no stitch removal is needed
Weeks 1 to 2
- Rest is important during this period
- Most patients take two to three weeks away from work – longer for physically demanding roles
- Driving is not permitted while taking prescription pain medication
- Sleeping on your back in an elevated position is generally recommended
Weeks 3 to 6
- Light activities can generally be resumed after approximately four weeks
- Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and upper-body workouts should be avoided for at least six weeks
- The support bra continues to be worn throughout this period
Months 2 to 6
- Final breast shape and position continue to settle over several months
- Scars are typically red and raised initially and typically settle over 12 to 24 months
- Follow-up appointments with Dr Steve Merten are part of your care
Individual recovery timelines vary. The above is a general guide only. Dr Merten and the Pure Aesthetics team will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your circumstances.
Results
Changes in breast appearance may be visible following surgery, although swelling can temporarily obscure the final result.
- Initial swelling reduces over the first six weeks
- Final breast shape and position typically become clearer over three to six months
- Scars progress over 12 to 24 months – they generally fade and flatten over time but do not disappear entirely
Results vary between patients. Outcomes depend on individual factors including anatomy, skin quality, healing, lifestyle, weight stability, and age. The results shown in before and after images are specific to those individual patients and do not necessarily represent what other patients will experience.
Individual results will vary. All surgery carries risks. You should seek a second opinion from a qualified medical practitioner before proceeding with surgery.
What Does the Breast Lift with Implants Procedure Involve?
Augmentation mastopexy is technically more complex than either a breast augmentation or a breast lift performed independently. The two techniques interact with each other, requiring careful surgical planning to achieve both the desired volume and position simultaneously.
Before Surgery
- Smokers must cease smoking a minimum of six weeks before surgery – smoking significantly increases the risk of wound complications and poor healing, and patients who smoke are not suitable candidates for this operation
- Pre-operative blood tests and a physical assessment are standard
- Medications that affect bleeding – including aspirin and certain supplements – may need to be ceased
- Fasting requirements will be confirmed before the day of surgery
During Surgery
The breast lift with implants procedure is performed under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited hospital facility. Surgery typically takes up to four hours. The steps involved generally include:
- Removal of excess breast skin to reduce laxity and change breast contour
- Reshaping of the underlying breast tissue using internal sutures to support and define the lower breast
- Repositioning of the nipple and areola to a higher position – the nipple remains attached to its blood and nerve supply throughout
- Placement of the implant – typically behind the chest muscle (submuscular) – to add volume and projection
Dissolving sutures are used throughout. No drains are required. Patients may stay overnight or return home the same day depending on individual circumstances.
Incision Patterns
The incision pattern required depends on the amount of skin to be removed. Dr Steve Merten will discuss the most appropriate approach during your consultation:
- Vertical (lollipop) scar: a circular incision around the areola combined with a vertical incision to the breast fold – suitable for most patients having breast lift and augmentation
- Anchor (inverted-T) scar: used where more extensive skin removal is required – adds a horizontal incision along the breast fold
All incisions are positioned to be as discreet as possible within natural breast contours. Scarring is an expected outcome of this surgery and will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
Risks and Possible Complications
As with all surgical procedures, breast lift with implants surgery carries risks. It is important to understand these before proceeding. Dr Steve Merten will discuss risks relevant to your individual circumstances during your consultation.
General Surgical Risks
- Bleeding (haematoma) – may require further surgical drainage in some cases
- Infection – managed with antibiotics; in rare cases may require further treatment
- Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism
- Poor or delayed wound healing
- Bruising and swelling
Risks Specific to Augmentation Mastopexy
- Implant rupture – implants are not lifetime devices and may require replacement or removal over time
- Capsular contracture – scar tissue forming around the implant, causing firmness or distortion
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation – may be temporary or, in some cases, permanent
- Asymmetry – significant asymmetry may require revision surgery
- Scarring – all patients will have scars; extent varies between individuals
- Wound breakdown– risk is elevated in smokers, which is why smoking cessation is required
- Implant malposition – the implant shifting from its intended position
- Seroma – fluid accumulation around the implant
- Changes to the ability to breastfeed – depends on technique used; discussed during consultation
- Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) – a rare condition associated with certain textured implants; discussed in full during your consultation
This list is not exhaustive. Risks are individual and depend on your health history, anatomy, and the specific surgical approach. Dr Merten will discuss all risks relevant to you during your consultation.
Scarring
Scarring is an expected and unavoidable outcome of breast lift with implants surgery. All patients will have scars following this procedure.
Dr Steve Merten uses techniques designed to place incisions within natural breast contours where possible. The extent of scarring depends on the incision pattern required, individual skin characteristics, and how the body heals. Scars typically appear red and raised in the months following surgery, improving progressively over 12 to 24 months.
Dr Merten will explain the expected scar pattern, its likely progression, and post-operative scar care at your consultation at Pure Aesthetics in Sydney.
Before & After Breast Lift with Implants Photos
Outcomes shown are only relevant to the individual patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience. Results vary due to many factors including an individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
Individual results will vary. All surgery carries risks. You should seek a second opinion from a qualified medical practitioner before proceeding.
Images of patients are provided with consent and are used for informational purposes only.
The gallery below features before and after photographs from patients who have undergone augmentation mastopexy performed by Dr Steve Merten at Pure Aesthetics, Sydney. These images are intended to help you understand the types of changes that may occur – not to set expectations for your own results.
Breast Lift with Implants Surgical Animation Video
Cost of Breast Lift with Implants in Sydney
The total cost of breast lift with implants in Sydney varies depending on a number of factors, confirmed during the consultation process at Pure Aesthetics.
What Is Typically Included in the Total Cost
- Surgeon’s fee – Dr Steve Merten FRACS
- Anaesthetist’s fee
- Hospital or facility fee
- Breast implants
- Post-operative support garments
- Follow-up consultations
Indicative Cost Range
As a general guide, augmentation mastopexy in Sydney typically ranges from approximately AUD $17,000 to $26,000 in total. The exact cost for your procedure will be confirmed following consultation.
Medicare and Health Fund Considerations
Breast lift with implants is generally classified as cosmetic surgery and is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. However, in certain circumstances – such as documented breast asymmetry, post-pregnancy changes, or specific medical indications – a partial Medicare rebate or health fund benefit may apply. Dr Merten will advise whether any Medicare item numbers may be applicable during your consultation.
Things to Consider Before Surgery
Augmentation mastopexy is an elective surgical procedure. Before deciding to proceed with breast lift with implants in Sydney, it is worth considering:
- Weight stability – significant weight changes after surgery can affect results
- Future pregnancies – pregnancy after augmentation mastopexy can alter outcomes; timing should be discussed with Dr Merten
- Realistic expectations – surgery changes appearance but is not a solution to other aspects of wellbeing
- Changes in sensation – temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation are possible
- Recovery planning – two to three weeks away from work is typically needed, with additional time before returning to physical activity
- Implant longevity – breast implants are not lifetime devices and may require further surgery over time
- Possibility of revision surgery – as with all cosmetic procedures, further surgery may be required
Any questions or concerns can be raised during your consultations with Dr Steve Merten at Pure Aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions – Breast Lift with Implants
Can a breast lift with implants be done in one surgery?
In some cases augmentation mastopexy may be performed as a single operation addressing both breast volume and position simultaneously. Whether a combined or staged approach is appropriate depends on your individual anatomy and is assessed during a consultation with Dr Steve Merten at Pure Aesthetics.
How do I know whether I need a lift, implants, or both?
This depends on your individual anatomy – breast tissue quality, skin laxity, and nipple position – as well as your goals. An in-person assessment with Dr Steve Merten, specialist plastic surgeon in Sydney, is required to determine the most appropriate approach. Some patients may benefit from a breast lift alone, others from an implant alone, and others from the combined procedure.
What is the difference between breast lift with implants and augmentation mastopexy?
These terms all refer to the same combined procedure. Augmentation mastopexy is the medical term. Breast lift with implants, breast aug with lift, breast augmentation and lift, and breast uplift with implants are all commonly used terms for the same operation.
How long will I need off work?
Most patients plan for two to three weeks away from work after breast lift with implants surgery. This can vary depending on the physical demands of your role and your individual recovery rate. Dr Steve Merten will provide specific guidance during your consultation.
Can augmentation mastopexy affect future pregnancies or breastfeeding?
Breast lift with implants surgery may affect the ability to breastfeed, depending on the technique used. If you are planning future pregnancies, this is an important consideration to raise with Dr Merten before deciding on timing.
When will I see the final result?
Changes in breast appearance may be noticeable following breast lift and augmentation surgery. The final appearance develops gradually as swelling settles over approximately three to six months. Scars typically appear red and raised initially and usually become less noticeable over 12 to 24 months.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. They may need to be replaced or removed at some point. Regular follow-up appointments at Pure Aesthetics allow any changes to be monitored. Dr Merten will discuss implant-specific information during your consultation.
What does breast lift with implants cost in Sydney?
The total cost for augmentation mastopexy in Sydney typically ranges from approximately AUD $17,000 to $26,000 depending on the complexity of your procedure and if Medicare item numbers apply. An itemised quote is provided following your consultation with Dr Steve Merten. In certain circumstances, a partial Medicare rebate may apply.
Will I still need a bra after breast augmentation and lift surgery?
Yes. A soft, supportive bra is worn continuously for approximately six weeks following surgery. After the recovery period, regular supportive bras are generally recommended.
Are the surgeons at Pure Aesthetics FRACS-qualified?
Yes. All surgical procedures at Pure Aesthetics are performed by specialist plastic surgeons holding FRACS qualifications and registered with AHPRA. Dr Steve Merten (AHPRA MED0001155669) performs augmentation mastopexy at both the Sydney City and Macquarie University locations.
