BREAST LIFT AND REDUCTION
Feel Lighter, Live Brighter
Breast reduction and breast lift (mastopexy) are surgical procedures to reshape and lift the breasts for improved comfort, proportion and contour. Breast reduction alleviates symptoms such as back and shoulder pain caused by large breasts, while a breast lift addresses sagging and loss of shape. Depending on your anatomy and goals, these procedures may be performed alone or in combination to achieve a more balanced and confident silhouette.
What Are Breast Reduction and Breast Lift?
Breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to tighten the breast skin and reposition the breast tissue to restore a firmer, more youthful breast shape. Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, involves removing excess breast tissue and skin to reduce breast size and weight, improving both comfort and proportion. As part of a breast reduction procedure, a breast lift is inherently performed to reshape and elevate the breast.
Breast reduction is often medically indicated for women with large, heavy breasts causing symptoms such as neck, shoulder or back pain, skin irritation, or postural discomfort, and may be eligible for Medicare and private health insurance rebates. While a Medicare item number also exists for breast lift surgery, the criteria for a medically indicated mastopexy are significantly more restrictive, and in many cases a breast lift is considered a cosmetic procedure.
For more detailed information about breast lift and reduction surgery, techniques and recovery, please refer to our dedicated breast reduction blog.
Blog: Breast Reduction
Frequently Asked Questions
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A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes the breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple. It is designed to address sagging breasts rather than reduce breast volume.
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Women who experience breast sagging due to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or genetics may be suitable candidates for a breast lift. A consultation helps determine whether a lift alone or a combined procedure is more appropriate.
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A breast lift reshapes and elevates the breasts without significantly reducing their size, whereas breast reduction removes excess breast tissue to reduce size and weight. In many cases, breast reduction includes a lift as part of the procedure.
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Yes. A breast lift can restore breast shape and position without the use of implants. For women seeking additional volume or upper pole fullness, implants or fat grafting may be considered in selected cases.
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A breast lift primarily changes breast shape and position rather than size. Some women may perceive a slight reduction due to removal of excess skin, but significant size reduction requires a breast reduction procedure.
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The type and extent of scarring depend on the degree of breast sagging and the technique used. Common scar patterns include periareolar, vertical, or anchor-shaped scars, which are designed to fade over time.
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Breast lift surgery is usually considered cosmetic and is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. In rare circumstances, where strict medical criteria are met, rebates may apply.
Learn more about breast lift and reduction with Melbourne specialist breast surgeon Dr Saam Tourani.