Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Breast lift surgery addresses breast ptosis (sagging) by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue to a lifted position.
Also known as: Mastopexy, Breast lift surgery
Am I a candidate?
- Women with breast ptosis — nipple position below the breast fold
- Post-lactation or age-related breast sagging
- Healthy individuals without unrealistic size expectations
The procedure
- General anaesthesia in an accredited facility
- Wise pattern (anchor) or lollipop incision depending on the degree of ptosis
- Excess skin excised; breast tissue reshaped and repositioned
- Nipple–areola complex repositioned; closure in layers
Recovery
- Supportive bra worn for 4–6 weeks
- No strenuous exercise for 4 weeks
- Scars typically fade over 12 months with appropriate care
- Breast shape stabilises at approximately 3 months
Risks & considerations
Risks include scarring, nipple loss (rare), asymmetry, recurrent sagging, altered nipple sensation, and wound healing complications. Smoking delays healing significantly.
Medicare & rebates
A Medicare rebate (MBS item 45558) may apply for significant breast sagging where at least two-thirds of the breast tissue, including the nipple, sits below the breast fold, supported by photographic evidence. It does not apply when an implant is inserted at the same time, or for purely cosmetic cases. Eligibility is assessed individually at consultation.
Medicare item numbers and eligibility criteria are set by the Australian Government and can change or be revised over time. Your current eligibility is confirmed at your consultation.
Clinical photographs
Educational onlyFor privacy, photographs are blurred by default. Click to view; click again to move through the angles.
These photographs are published for general educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or a guarantee of any particular outcome. Unless otherwise stated, images are taken approximately 3 months after surgery; at this stage scars can still look red and darker, which varies with skin type. Over time they typically settle into a fine line that is usually paler than the surrounding skin, and the final shape settles with time — the timing and final appearance vary with skin type and ethnicity. Every patient is different and individual results vary. All surgery carries risks, and you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Images are published with the patient’s written consent and have not been altered to misrepresent results. A consultation with Dr Livingston is required to determine your suitability for any procedure. Dr Ryan Livingston is an AHPRA-registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001523680).
Frequently asked questions
Can a breast lift be combined with implants?
Yes — an augmentation-mastopexy combines a lift with implants and is discussed during consultation.
What scar patterns are used?
Periareolar, vertical (lollipop), or anchor patterns depending on the degree of sagging.
Does Medicare cover a breast lift?
No rebate generally applies for a cosmetic breast lift.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks; you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results vary. A consultation with Dr Livingston is required to determine your suitability for any procedure. Dr Ryan Livingston is an AHPRA-registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MED0001523680).