- 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” refers to the combination procedure where breast enlargement using implants is done in conjunction with a breast lift (mastopexy). A breast lift with implants is usually the recommended breast cosmetic surgical procedure if breast skin is loose or stretched, or the nipples are low-sitting, as a standard breast enlargement may not correct this.
This type of surgery, also referred to as a breast aug with lift, breast augmentation and lift, or breast augmentation with lift, has the combined effects of using implants to enlarge and correct breast shape and volume, as well as tightening the skin and lifting the nipples.
The result is corrected shape, volume and breast aesthetics. Please note: outcomes shown are only relevant for 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.
How Can a Breast Lift with Implants Help Me?
A breast lift and augmentation is recommended for women who have lost breast volume, as well as having stretched or loose breast skin. This combined approach, sometimes called a breast mastopexy with implants or breast uplift and enlargement, is for women who want to increase breast volume, modify breast shape, and elevate the nipple position.
Benefits may include:
- Enlarging and firming the breasts
- Elevating nipple and areola position and possibly reducing areola size
- Removing excess skin to increase firmness
- Adding breast volume
Alleviating skin irritation beneath the breast fold by lifting the breast higher
What Can I Expect in the Breast Lift with Implants Consultation?
During the consultation process, your surgeon will discuss your aesthetic goals for your breast lift with breast augmentation, as well as ask questions about your health history, including medications, allergies, and any other treatments you are currently undergoing.
To determine if you are a suitable candidate for a breast lift and enhancement, your surgeon will perform a physical examination to assess whether the combination procedure is appropriate for your needs. In some cases, they may discuss whether a breast implant or lift alone would be better suited to your goals.
An X-ray or other tests may also be needed. Based on this information, your surgeon will explain the options available, ranging from mastopexy alone, breast enlargement alone, or both together, depending on your desired size, current breast volume, and skin looseness.
By the end of your consultation, you should have a clear understanding of the options and the likely outcome of your surgery, so you can make an informed decision. You will also be introduced to mastopexy with implants before and after examples to help you visualise potential results.
In addition to discussing your procedure, our team will explain what to expect in your recovery, including possible complications. We encourage you to ask questions during your consultation and at your second appointment, which will go into more detail about your operation.
What Does the Breast Lift with Implants Procedure Involve?
The breast augmentation and mastopexy procedure is a more complex operation than a standard enlargement and should be undertaken by experienced specialist plastic surgeons such as those at Pure Aesthetics.
Please note: smokers are unsuitable for this operation and must stop at least six weeks before surgery.
In a breast lift and implants procedure, excess skin and breast tissue are removed, though the nipples remain in place. The implant is usually inserted behind the chest muscle, and the nipple is repositioned higher on the chest wall.
Your surgeon will use internal stitches to support and reshape the lower breast. Most patients require a “vertical” or “lollipop” scar pattern, though more extensive loose skin may require an additional horizontal scar in the breast fold. Dissolving sutures are used, and no drains are required.
This breast lift and breast augmentation procedure typically takes up to four hours under general anaesthesia in fully accredited facilities. Patients can either stay overnight or go home the same day.
What Is the Recovery Like?
Once the breast augmentation and breast lift surgery is complete, most patients experience nausea as the anaesthetic wears off. Supportive dressings are worn initially, followed by a soft support bra for about six weeks.
Since dissolving sutures are used, no stitch removal is required.
Most patients take two to three weeks off work to rest and recover. Light activities can be resumed after around four weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for six weeks
When Will I See My Results?
Results of a breast uplift and enlargement are visible immediately after surgery. As swelling reduces over the first six weeks, the final shape becomes clearer. It can take several months for the breasts to settle into their final position.
Scars may appear red and raised initially, but they will generally improve over up to two years
Possible Complications
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, bruising, and scarring. Specific risks for a breast lift with breast augmentation include implant-related issues such as rupture or contracture, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, wound breakdown, and difficulty breastfeeding.
Scarring
Although scars will develop, advanced “short scar” techniques are used. The surgeon will explain expected scar progression and provide care instructions.
Before & After Breast Lift with Implants Photos
Breast Lift with Implants Surgical Animation Video
Cost of a Breast Lift with Implants
This procedure is generally considered cosmetic, though in certain cases (such as post-pregnancy or specific abnormalities), partial Medicare or health insurance rebates may apply.
The average total cost for breast lift and augmentation surgery is around AUD $20,000, which includes surgeon, anaesthetist, implants, and hospital fees. Your surgeon will confirm whether you qualify for any rebates.
Other Considerations Before Surgery
Before undergoing a breast augmentation and lift, it is important to think about:
- Future weight changes
- Plans for pregnancy
- Realistic expectations for outcomes
- Possible changes in sensation
- Support needed during recovery
- Understanding potential complications
Any questions can be addressed during your appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions – Breast Lift with Implants
1. Can a breast lift with implants be done in one surgery?
Yes. A breast lift and augmentation, sometimes called a breast augmentation with lift or mastopexy with implants, can often be performed during a single operation. This approach means breast shape, position, and volume are addressed at the same time, rather than in separate procedures.
2. How do I know if I need implants for breast lift surgery?
Whether a breast lift alone or a breast implant and lift combination is most suitable depends on breast tissue quality, nipple position, and desired size. An in-person assessment is required to determine the best approach.
3. Is there a difference between a breast lift and implants and a breast augmentation and lift?
Sometimes people come to us using terms like “breast lift with implants” when searching for information online. Both this phrase and “breast augmentation and lift” generally refer to the same combined procedure. The medical term is augmentation mastopexy, where an implant is placed alongside a lift to address breast volume and position in one operation.
4. What does mastopexy with implants before and after involve?
Before surgery, patients usually attend consultations, imaging may be arranged, and implant options are discussed. After surgery, recovery steps include wearing support garments, following post-operative care instructions, and allowing time for swelling to settle so the breast mastopexy with implants results can take shape.
5. Can breast augmentation and mastopexy affect future pregnancies or breastfeeding?
Breast surgery may impact the ability to breastfeed, depending on the technique used. This possibility is discussed during the consultation so patients can make an informed decision about timing their breast uplift and enlargement surgery.
6. How long should I take off work after breast augmentation and breast lift surgery?
Many patients plan for about two to three weeks away from work after a breast lift with breast augmentation. This can vary depending on the type of work, healing rate, and whether both procedures were done together.
7. Will I still need a bra after a breast lift and enhancement?
Yes. Supportive bras are generally recommended after breast augmentation and lift surgery to help maintain breast position and provide comfort, especially during recovery.
8. How long do implants last after a breast augmentation and lift?
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. Over time, they may need to be replaced or removed. Regular reviews after a breast lift and implants procedure can help detect any changes that might require attention.
