Mastopexy – also known as a Breast Lift.
What is a mastopexy consultation
A mastopexy consultation is an appointment with a qualified medical practitioner to assess concerns involving breast position, skin laxity and structural changes affecting the breast area. People may seek this consultation if they notice breast ptosis, changes following pregnancy or weight variation, or concerns about the position of the nipple areolar complex.
Only a qualified medical practitioner can determine whether a breast lift is appropriate after reviewing your anatomy, medical history and expectations. This consultation focuses on clinical assessment and suitability rather than promoting surgery.
What areas does it address?
During the consultation, the surgeon may assess:
• Breast position and degree of ptosis
• Nipple and areola position
• Skin elasticity and any areas of stretching
• Changes in breast shape or volume distribution
• Structural support of the breast tissue
• Whether non surgical or conservative pathways should be considered
The aim is to understand your individual presentation and determine whether a surgical approach may be clinically appropriate and safe.
Who may be referred for a mastopexy consultation
A GP may refer someone for specialist review if they:
• Notice breast sagging or downward nipple position
• Have changes in breast shape following pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight fluctuation
• Experience concerns related to stretched skin or altered breast proportions
• Seek a medical review of changes associated with ageing or genetics
A referral does not mean surgery will be recommended. Suitability is confirmed only after full clinical assessment.
How suitability is determined
Suitability is based on several factors reviewed during consultation, including:
• General health and medical history
• Breast anatomy and tissue characteristics
• Skin quality and healing considerations
• Nipple position and structural support
• Personal goals and expectations
• Whether another approach may be more appropriate
Not all individuals will be candidates. Your surgeon will explain the reasons for suitability or non suitability based on clinical findings and safety requirements.
Understanding what the procedure involves
If the surgeon believes mastopexy may be appropriate, they will outline the general approach in a medical context. This may include broad information about:
• Common incision patterns
• How excess skin may be removed
• How breast tissue may be reshaped
• General repositioning of the nipple areolar complex
• What is typically expected during early recovery
These discussions support informed consent only. The surgeon will also explain circumstances where the procedure is not recommended.
Downtime and aftercare
If surgery is advised, general recovery expectations may include:
• Early swelling, bruising or discomfort
• Temporary restrictions on lifting or upper body activity
• Wearing supportive garments as recommended
• Monitoring sensation changes or healing progress
• Scheduled follow up appointments
• Signs that require review
Recovery varies between individuals. Personalised instructions will be provided during consultation.
Surgical or non-surgical?
Surgical
A mastopexy is a surgical procedure and must be performed in a licensed and accredited medical facility.
Who performs this procedure?
In Australia, mastopexy must be performed by a registered medical practitioner with recognised training in breast surgery. This may include:
• Specialist Plastic Surgeons
• Other medical practitioners who have completed formal training in breast procedures within their approved scope of practice
All procedures must occur in accredited hospitals or licensed surgical facilities with appropriate anaesthetic and postoperative support.
Patients are encouraged to:
• Confirm the clinician’s qualifications and scope of practice
• Ask about experience with breast lift procedures
• Check that the facility meets Australian accreditation standards
• Discuss postoperative care and follow up planning
Is a referral required
Yes. People considering elective cosmetic surgery need to follow a regulated pathway designed to support informed and safe decision making. Every person must complete the following steps before any procedure can be booked:
• A current GP referral is required before seeing a surgeon. This helps ensure your broader health needs are reviewed and that cosmetic surgery is the right pathway to explore.
• You must attend a minimum of two consultations with the surgeon who would perform the operation. At least one of these appointments must occur in person. These consultations allow time to review your medical history, assess suitability and discuss risks in detail.
• A cooling off period is required after the final consent appointment. This time is set aside for you to think carefully about the information provided, ask more questions if needed and decide whether to proceed.
These steps apply to all elective cosmetic surgery in Australia. They are in place to support careful consideration and protect patient safety.
Risks and considerations
All surgery carries risks. Your surgeon will discuss risks that may include:
• Infection or bleeding
• Scarring
• Changes in sensation
• Asymmetry
• Delayed healing
• Difficulty breastfeeding in the future
• The possibility of revision surgery
A full risk discussion is part of informed consent.on.
Frequently asked questions
Is mastopexy covered by Medicare in Australia
Medicare may offer support only when a breast lift meets specific medical or reconstructive criteria, such as documented functional concerns. Procedures performed for cosmetic reasons are generally not eligible. A specialist surgeon can assess whether any Medicare item numbers apply to your situation.
Does a breast lift change breast size
A mastopexy reshapes and lifts the breast but does not usually change overall breast volume. The procedure focuses on repositioning tissue and removing excess skin. Your surgeon can explain how this relates to your individual anatomy and whether another approach may be more suitable.
Will there be visible scars after mastopexy
Scarring is expected with breast lift surgery. Incisions are placed according to the technique used and your anatomical needs. Your surgeon will outline typical incision locations and provide guidance on caring for scars during healing.
Is a breast lift painful
Some discomfort is common during the early recovery period. Your surgeon will explain what is typically experienced after mastopexy and how discomfort is usually managed as you heal.
How long do breast lift results last
Longevity varies between individuals. Factors such as age, weight changes, pregnancy and skin elasticity can influence long term breast shape. Your surgeon will discuss what affects durability and how to support results over time.
