A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the sagging or ptotic appearance of breasts.
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple to address changes in breast position or contour. This may be considered by individuals who have experienced a loss of skin elasticity or breast volume due to factors such as ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss.
The procedure may involve the removal of excess skin and repositioning of the nipple-areola complex to achieve a more elevated breast position. In some cases, patients report improved comfort or posture following surgery; however, outcomes vary and are influenced by individual anatomy and recovery.
Breast Lift with Implants (Augmentation Mastopexy)
A breast lift can be performed in combination with breast augmentation, referred to as augmentation mastopexy. This combined procedure may be considered when there is a desire to address both volume loss and breast position. The addition of implants may help restore or increase breast volume where appropriate, while the lift component addresses skin redundancy and breast shape.
The decision to undergo combined surgery will depend on a range of factors, including your goals, breast anatomy, and overall health. Dr Leo Kim will discuss all relevant options and help you determine what is most suitable for your circumstances.
What is involved in a breast lift (mastopexy)?
Depending on your current situation, the results you desire and whether you choose to also get breast implants or not, there are different procedure types for mastopexy surgery as well as an incision site to consider.
- Traditional Breast Lift – Also known as a mastopexy or breast uplift surgery, requires Dr Leo Kim to remove excess skin. This helps tighten the surrounding tissue and to reshape (and support) the new breast contour.
- Breast Lift and Implant – Also known as an augmentation mastopexy, (similar to a traditional breast lift) requires Dr Leo Kim to first insert the new breast implants beneath the existing ptotic breasts to enlarge them. Implant shape and size will depend on various deciding factors such as how much bigger you desire your breasts to be, your anatomy, etc., that will be discussed during your consultation. Post-implant insertion, excess skin is removed to tighten the tissue and reshape the new breasts and achieve a natural-looking contour.
Incision Placement
Dr Leo Kim will inform you during your consultation of the available incision placement options and recommend on the best options for you. This is important to note as this is where the incision will be made, and your scar will form.
- Periareolar Incision – The periareolar incision is made only around the areola (coloured area surrounding the nipple). It is most typically the chosen incision type for women only requiring a minor breast lift, and slight adjustment of the nipple.
- Circumvertical Incision – This incision is made around the areola, and also travels down the midsection of the breast. This is generally chosen for women who need a more pronounced lift and is effective in enhancing projection.
- Anchor (Inverted T) Incision – This incision is a little more complex. It is made around the areola, travels vertically down the midsection of the breast, and horizontally across the breast fold. It is recommended on patients with significant amount of excess skin, or extremely ptotic or deflated breasts.
For more information on breast implant placement, shape, or size; visit breast augmentation surgery.
Breast Lift Recovery
Minor swelling, bruising and possible minor discomfort is expected after breast lift (and implant) surgery, but can be controlled through medication prescribed by your doctor. Scarring may take time to heal and will mature over time and become barely perceptible.
During recovery, you will be required to wear a garment for the first three weeks around the clock, only to be removed when showering. You will require assistance after surgery for the first few days to help perform day-to-day activities, including driving home from the surgery. Daily activities can be resumed at 6 weeks post-surgery.
Your final results may not be able to be seen until around six months to one-year post-operation.
What to know before a breast lift
Before considering a surgical procedure such as a breast lift/mastopexy (and implant/augmentation), you must be in generally good health with no medical conditions that impair healing or increase surgical risk, maintain a stable weight, be a non-smoker or have quit smoking, uphold a positive mindset and have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve as well as your surgeons’ abilities.

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Risks associated with a breast lift (mastopexy)
Any invasive surgical procedure poses risk. These risks will be discussed with you in detail at your consultation.
- Anaesthesia – Some patients experience an adverse reaction to the anaesthesia. If you’ve experienced a bad reaction to anaesthesia before it is crucial you mention this to your surgeon during the consultation.
- Bleeding – Bleeding can occur and while a little light bleeding is no concern, excessive bleeding may require a return to operating theatre. Fortunately, this is rare.
- Breast Implant Complications – To learn more about the risks associated with breast implant insertion, visit our breast augmentation page.
- Haematoma – A painful pool or pocket of blood that can accumulate under the skin, resembling a bruise. Fortunately, this is rare.
- Infection – You will be provided with the right antibiotics to prevent any posed risk of infection. Following postoperative care procedures is the best way to avoid any risk of infection.
- Numbness – It is rare for permanent numbness to occur; however, it is possible and something to keep in mind. Loss of sensation can also occur in the nipple or surrounding the nipple.
- Poor Scar Healing – Noticeable healing and bad scarring are extremely rare. Poor scar healing is virtually unheard of when postoperative scar care is followed closely.
- Revision Surgery – Some patients choose to come in for a second surgery to help better achieve their desired results, or if the results appear asymmetric.
Breast Lift FAQs
Dr Leo Kim and his experienced team have answered frequently asked questions regarding this surgery. If you have a separate question or concern, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
The decision to undergo breast lift surgery is personal and should be based on your own goals, not external pressure or expectations. There is no medical requirement to have a breast lift unless it is part of a broader treatment plan recommended for reconstructive or functional reasons.
Some individuals may consider a breast lift if they have noticed changes to the shape, position, or firmness of their breasts over time—often due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or ageing. These changes may lead to concerns about skin laxity or a lowered breast position.
If you are exploring breast lift surgery or a combination procedure such as augmentation mastopexy, a consultation with Dr Leo Kim can help determine whether the procedure aligns with your goals and is clinically appropriate for your needs.
All surgical procedures that involve incisions will result in some degree of scarring. A breast lift (mastopexy) requires the removal and repositioning of skin and tissue, which means that scars are a normal part of the healing process.
However, every effort is made to minimise the visibility of scars through careful incision placement and meticulous surgical technique. Over time, scars may fade and become less noticeable, although this varies between individuals based on factors such as skin type, healing response, and post-operative care.
Dr Leo Kim will discuss the expected scar pattern during your consultation and provide guidance on how to support optimal healing.
The decision to undergo a breast lift (mastopexy), breast augmentation, or a combination of both depends on your individual anatomy, goals, and clinical assessment. This is something that will be discussed in detail during your consultation with Dr Leo Kim.
As a general guide, the position of the nipple in relation to the breast fold can help inform whether a lift may be appropriate. If the nipple sits below the inframammary fold or points downward, implants alone may not be sufficient to achieve the desired shape or elevation. In such cases, a breast lift may be recommended, either on its own or in conjunction with implants.
Dr Leo Kim will perform a detailed assessment during your consultation and provide guidance tailored to your needs. Request a consultation to learn more.
Breast Lift Surgery Sydney CBD
When you come in to see Dr Leo Kim at Quayside Specialists, Sydney CBD, we will ensure you feel self-assured about your decision and are fully informed on all the options suitable for your needs.
Contact us today to book a consultation or make an enquiry.