Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Sydney

What happens at the first breast lift (mastopexy) consultation?

During your first consultation with Dr Norris, he will focus on what you hope to achieve with this procedure and what you would like your breasts to look like. It may become apparent during this initial consultation that you have concerns not only about the laxity of the breasts but also about the size or loss of volume due to the effects of pregnancy and ageing. If this is the case, you have the option to insert breast implants (augmentation mammoplasty) at the same time that your breasts are lifted with mastopexy surgery. Dr Norris will evaluate your breasts by taking measurements, assessing your skin tone and the condition of your breast and fat tissue, and noting the position and size of your nipple and areola on each side. Photographs will be taken for your medical records.

A graph to show the grade of lax breasts:

You can also expect to have a detailed discussion with Dr Norris about how the operation is performed and where the incisions will be placed. At the end of this initial consultation, you should clearly know what will be possible for you. You will then be provided with a detailed quotation for surgery.

If you decide to proceed with surgery, you must schedule a second consultation with Dr Norris. During the second appointment, a surgery date will be scheduled, and Dr Norris will explain how you should prepare for the procedure.

How is a breast lift mastopexy performed?

The breast lift mastopexy procedure will always be performed in a fully accredited hospital. Before the surgery, Dr Norris will pay you one last visit and introduce you to the anaesthetist who will administer your general anaesthetic. The entire procedure will last anywhere from 2 – 3 hours and may require an overnight stay in the hospital – Dr Norris will advise you whether this will be the case during your consultation.

Several techniques can be used to lift the breasts, which will affect where the scars will be present. Dr Norris has trained in using short-scar techniques. However, not all women have breasts that are suitable for a short scar technique.

In most instances, the incision will encircle the areola (periareolar scar) and pass downwards from the areola to the fold beneath the breast (vertical scar). This is commonly called a lollipop lift as it resembles a lollipop. In some cases, it is possible only to use a periareolar incision. In other cases, Dr Norris might need to perform a lift using an incision called an anchor. The associated scar from this procedure also travels underneath the breast in the mammary fold, around the areola, and down the breast.

Once the necessary incisions have been made, the excess skin and breast tissue are removed. The nipple may also be repositioned if necessary. Implants will now be inserted through the incision before they are closed using absorbable sutures.

Dr Norris will take you through the various implant options during your consultation. Each implant type has its pros and cons. Choosing the right size for your body shape and goals is also important.

At the end of the operation, a drain may be placed beneath each breast. If this happens, it will be removed the day after surgery. A dressing is also applied over the incisions, and you will leave the hospital wearing your supportive surgical bra, which will help reduce swelling and aid in your recovery.

What happens after the surgery?

• Most patients can go home on the same day as their surgery, but in many instances, an overnight hospital stay is necessary.
• You will require a friend, family member or partner to drive you home from the hospital due to your range of movement being restricted.
• There is also a chance that you will still be slightly drowsy following the anaesthetic.
• Dr Norris will send you home with aftercare instructions, including scar management techniques, as well as a prescription for pain medication and possibly an antibiotic.
• You cannot drive for up to 1 week, so it’s best to make arrangements to get around during this period.
• Daily short showers are permitted, provided your waterproof dressings are dried adequately.
• Patients are encouraged to sleep on their backs, elevated by a few pillows for the first six weeks. This will help reduce swelling and make your recovery more comfortable.
• You will experience the most discomfort in the first 3 or 4 days after the surgery.
• Your breasts and nipples will be bruised, swollen, tender, and sensitive to touch, but this will subside during the first two weeks.
• Most patients can return to work after two weeks, provided their job is not physically demanding. Additional recovery time is required in this instance.
• Swelling can take up to 6 weeks to settle.
• You can start light exercise such as walking after about two weeks. If Dr Norris clears you, you can resume your regular exercise routine after six weeks.
• You will have a follow-up appointment on day three after the procedure to check and change the dressings. Dr Norris will also use this time to ensure you’re on track with your recovery.

Possible complications

• Haematoma – This complication results in excess blood collecting in the breast pocket. This will either be absorbed by the body naturally, or Dr Norris will need to drain it himself. Symptoms include swelling, pain, bruising, skin that is hot to the touch, and itchy breasts.
• Infection – Infection can occur if microorganisms enter the incision sites. Any type of infection should be treated as soon as possible using antibiotics.
• Keloid Scarring – In some instances, scars can begin to look raised, lumpy and even darker in colour. If you notice this, please inform Dr Norris so that he can look at treating the keloid scars with steroid injections. Wearing the supplied silicone gel strips after surgery 24/7 will help prevent this from occurring.
• Numb Nipples – This is a common complication, but it usually resolves in a short period. Sometimes, it may take up to 6-12 months to regain full sensation in your nipples.
• Asymmetry – Even natural breasts aren’t always completely symmetrical, which is why patients need to have realistic expectations before pursuing this procedure. Dr Norris will take every necessary step to help prevent asymmetrical breasts, but there is no way to guarantee this. Most patients can expect to see some minor asymmetry a year after their procedure.
• Breastfeeding Limitations – While breast lifts are not directly linked to any breastfeeding limitations, there is a chance that your ability to breastfeed could be affected. The possibility of this occurring is very much dependent on the technique that was used.
• Implant Rupture – If patients decide to have implants inserted, rupture can be a possible complication. Implant rupturing occurs when the shell of the implant is weakened and tears. In most cases, ruptures are only more likely as the implant ages or if capsular contracture occurs. Capsular contracture is the body’s response to foreign material, resulting in a hard capsule forming around one or both implants. If one breast appears firmer and feels harder than the other, it might be a sign of capsular contracture.

How much does a breast lift mastopexy cost in Sydney?

The final cost of a breast lift mastopexy will vary between patients. This is because several different factors need to be considered. The amount of skin and tissue that needs to be removed, whether or not implants are required at the hospital, and anaesthetist fees all affect the cost. If certain criteria are met, there is a high chance that patients can apply for a Medicare rebate following their surgery. However, the ptosis must be severe enough to warrant the surgery. Dr Norris will take you through the requirements for a rebate application during your consultation.