Breast Lift (Mastopexy) | New Zealand Cosmetic Surgical Specialists

What is mastopexy surgery?

Mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift, is a surgical procedure aimed at raising the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This reshapes and provides support for a new breast contour. Additionally, mastopexy can address enlarged areolas that may have developed over time.

The procedure can rejuvenate the figure, giving a more youthful and uplifted breast profile. Over time, a woman’s breasts may undergo changes, losing their youthful shape and firmness due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, gravity, and heredity.

It’s important to note that mastopexy surgery does not significantly alter breast size or round out the upper portion of the breasts. For those desiring fuller breasts, combining mastopexy with breast augmentation may be considered. Conversely, individuals seeking smaller breasts may explore combining mastopexy with breast reduction surgery.

Who is a suitable candidate for brachioplasty surgery?

Mastopexy surgery is highly individualized, and it is crucial that individuals pursue it for personal reasons rather than external pressures or ideals. Potential candidates for mastopexy may include those who:

Maintain physical health and a stable weight.
Are non-smokers.
Feel bothered by sagging breasts or loss of shape and volume.
Have breasts with a flatter, elongated shape or pendulous appearance.
Experience nipple descent below the breast crease when unsupported.
Have downward-pointing nipples and enlarged areolas.
Encounter breast asymmetry, with one breast lower than the other.

What should I expect during a consultation for mastopexy surgery?

During your consultation for mastopexy surgery, expect to discuss various aspects of the procedure, including:

Surgical goals and desired outcomes.
Medical history, including conditions, allergies, medications, and previous surgeries.
Family history of breast cancer and results of mammograms or biopsies.
General health status and any preexisting health conditions or risk factors.
Examination of breast size, shape, skin quality, nipple placement, and areola size, with possible measurements and photographs.

Your surgeon will:

Evaluate your health status and any existing conditions or risk factors.
Discuss treatment options, potential outcomes, risks, and complications associated with mastopexy.
Recommend a suitable course of action based on your individual needs and goals.

During the consultation, feel free to ask questions and express any concerns you may have. Understanding all aspects of the mastopexy procedure is essential, and your plastic surgeon is there to provide guidance and support. It’s normal to experience anticipation or preoperative stress, so don’t hesitate to discuss your feelings with your surgeon.

What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about Mastopexy surgery?

Are you vocationally registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand as a specialist plastic surgeon?
Are you a member of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons?
Will the procedure be conducted in a hospital or office-based setting, and is the facility accredited for this type of surgery?
What type of anaesthesia is needed for this procedure?
Based on my medical history and condition, is surgery the best option for me? If so, am I a suitable candidate for this surgery?
Which surgical technique do you recommend for my case, and why?
What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of this procedure in my case?
What steps or lifestyle changes are necessary for me to get the best result from my surgery?
What is the anticipated duration of recovery, and what assistance will I need during this period?
What potential risks and complications are associated with this procedure? How would you manage these should they arise?
How will my results change over time?
If I’m unhappy with the outcome, what recourse options are available?

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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide you with general information only. This information is not a substitute for advice from your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and does not contain all the known facts about this procedure or every possible side effect of surgery. It is important that you speak to your surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery. If you are not sure about the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment, or anything else relating to your procedure, ask your surgeon to explain. Patient information provided as part of this website is evidence-based, and sourced from a range of reputable information providers including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Better Health Channel and Mi-tec medical publishing.