Breast Lift with Implants (Augmentation Mastopexy): The Complete Sydney Guide

Medical Review: Dr. Mohammad Mohaghegh (Specialist Plastic Surgeon, FRACS)
AHPRA Registration: MED0001627149

What is a Breast Lift with Implants?

A breast lift with implants, clinically known as augmentation mastopexy, is a dual-benefit procedure designed to address two distinct structural issues simultaneously:

  1. Ptosis (Sagging): Removing excess skin and tightening the breast envelope to lift the nipple-areola complex to a more youthful position.
  2. Volume Loss: Inserting a breast implant to restore upper-pole fullness and overall breast size.

This combined approach is often the recommended solution for women who have experienced significant changes due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. In these cases, an implant alone is often insufficient and may result in a deformity where the implant sits high while the breast tissue droops off it. A lift is required to realign the nipple and breast tissue over the implant.

Surgical Techniques: Tailoring the Lift to Your Anatomy

Achieving a balanced result requires selecting the correct incision pattern based on the degree of ptosis. Dr. Mohaghegh utilises specific techniques to minimise scarring while maximising shape.

1. The Incision Patterns

  • Periareolar (Donut) Lift: An incision is made solely around the perimeter of the areola. This is suitable only for mild sagging where the primary goal is a small lift and areola reduction.
  • Vertical (Lollipop) Lift: Involves an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. This is the modern standard for moderate sagging, allowing for significant reshaping of the breast mound without the horizontal scar in the crease.
  • Inverted-T (Anchor) Lift: Used for severe ptosis or significant skin laxity. The incision follows the areola, drops vertically, and extends horizontally along the breast crease. This technique offers the most powerful lifting capability.

2. The Dual Plane Technique

To ensure a natural transition from the collarbone to the breast, Dr. Mohaghegh frequently employs the Dual Plane technique.

  • How it works: The top half of the implant is placed under the pectoralis major muscle, while the bottom half sits under the breast tissue.
  • The Benefit: This coverage softens the upper edge of the implant (masking visible edges or rippling) while allowing the implant to expand the lower breast pole naturally, avoiding an artificial “stuck-on” appearance.
Medical diagram showing Periareolar, Vertical, and Inverted-T incision patterns and Dual Plane implant placement for breast lift with implants surgery.
Figure 1: Comparison of incision options (Donut, Lollipop, Anchor) and the Dual Plane technique used by Dr. Mohaghegh to achieve natural results.

Implant Selection: Silicone, Saline, and Shapes

Your choice of implant is critical to the final silhouette. Dr. Mohaghegh offers a range of high-quality options:

  • Cohesive Gel (“Gummy Bear”) Implants: These silicone implants hold their shape even if the shell is compromised. They offer a firm yet natural feel and are less prone to rippling than saline options.
  • Round Implants: Designed to provide maximum fullness in the upper pole (the top of the breast). This is often preferred by patients seeking a “lifted” look.
  • Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants: These are tapered at the top and fuller at the bottom, mimicking the natural slope of a breast. They are excellent for patients with very little natural breast tissue who want a subtle enhancement.
Medical infographic illustrating breast implant customisation. Section A compares front and cross-section views of Round (symmetrical) vs. Teardrop (anatomical/tapered) shapes. Section B visualizes Low, Moderate, and High profiles showing varying degrees of forward projection for the same implant volume.
Figure 3: Understanding your options. This guide visualizes how different shapes affect upper pole fullness versus natural slope, and how profiles determine forward projection. Dr. Mohaghegh will assess your anatomy to recommend the ideal combination.

The Investment: Cost of Breast Lift with Implants in Sydney

We believe in transparency regarding the financial commitment of surgery. In Sydney, the total cost for an augmentation mastopexy typically falls between $15,000 and $22,000 AUD, though this varies based on individual factors.

Breakdown of Fees:

  • Surgeon’s Fee: Covers Dr. Mohaghegh’s expertise (FRACS qualifications), surgical planning, and post-operative care.
  • Hospital & Theatre Fees: Covers the private hospital facilities, theatre staff, and overnight stay (if required).
  • Anaesthetist’s Fee: Covers the specialist doctor responsible for your safety and pain management during the operation.
  • Implant Cost: High-quality, TGA-approved implants (e.g., Mentor, Motiva) typically cost between $2,500 and $3,500 per pair.

Note: Medicare and private health insurance generally do not cover cosmetic procedures unless there is a strict medical necessity (e.g., correction of congenital deformity).

Week-by-Week Recovery Roadmap

Recovery from a combined lift and augmentation is more involved than an augmentation alone due to the skin tightening component.

  • Days 1-4 (The “Rest” Phase): You will experience tightness, swelling, and soreness. You must sleep on your back, elevated on pillows. Prescription pain relief helps manage discomfort. Mobility is limited; you will need help with household tasks.
  • Week 1-2 (The Healing Phase): Most patients return to non-physical work (desk jobs) after 10-14 days. You must continue wearing your surgical support bra 24/7 to minimise swelling and support the new breast position.
  • Weeks 3-6 (The “Settling” Phase): You may feel “zaps” of nerve sensation as feeling returns. Light walking is encouraged, but heavy lifting and high-impact cardio are strictly prohibited to prevent internal bleeding or scar widening.
  • 3 Months+: Implants begin to “drop and fluff” into their final position. Scars will be red initially but will fade to white lines over the next 12-18 months.
Infographic showing the 4-stage recovery timeline for breast lift with implants: Days 1-4 Rest, Weeks 1-2 Healing, Weeks 3-6 Settling, and 3 Months+ Final Results.
Figure 2: Dr. Mohaghegh’s guide to the 4 stages of recovery, highlighting when you can return to work and exercise.

Risks and Safety Considerations

Dr. Mohaghegh is committed to performing safe, ethical surgery. However, all surgeries carry risks, which will be discussed in detail during your consultation. Specific risks include:

  • Capsular Contracture: The body forms tight scar tissue around the implant, which may require revision surgery.
  • Implant Displacement: The implant may shift or rotate (particularly with teardrop shapes).
  • Sensation Changes: Temporary or permanent numbness in the nipple-areola complex.
  • Symmastia: A rare condition where the implants sit too close together in the centre of the chest.
  • Infection and Bleeding: Standard surgical risks managed via sterile technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I breastfeed after a breast lift with implants?

While many women successfully breastfeed after surgery, it cannot be guaranteed. Incisions around the areola (common in lifts) can occasionally disrupt milk ducts or nerve supply. Discuss your future family plans with Dr. Mohaghegh during your consultation.

Will the implants hold up my breasts forever?

No. Implants add weight, and gravity will eventually take its toll again. However, the lift removes the loose skin that causes the current drooping. Maintaining a stable weight helps prolong your results.

Do I need a GP referral?

Yes. To see a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) like Dr. Mohaghegh, a referral from your General Practitioner is required.

Next Steps

Considering a breast lift with implants in Sydney? The first step is a comprehensive consultation to assess your anatomy and discuss your goals.

Contact Dr. Mohaghegh’s clinic today to schedule your appointment.