What Is a Breast Lift with Implants?

A breast lift with implants is a comprehensive surgical procedure combining two complementary techniques to address both breast position (ptosis, or sagging) and volume loss. Performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Scott J. Turner at his Sydney clinics in Manly and Double Bay, this procedure repositions ptotic (sagging) breast tissue while simultaneously enhancing breast volume using breast implants.

The technical term for this combined approach is augmentation-mastopexy.

The breast lift component (mastopexy) addresses sagging by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue and nipple-areola complex to a more elevated position.
The augmentation component uses breast implants to restore lost volume or enhance the overall size of the breasts.

This dual-technique approach is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced changes in breast appearance due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight fluctuations, or the natural aging process.

Why Patients Choose a Breast Lift with Implants

Many patients discover that a combined approach offers more complete results than a single procedure. Dr Turner’s breast lift with implants addresses multiple concerns in one comprehensive treatment plan.

Complete Breast Rejuvenation

This dual-technique approach achieves what neither procedure can accomplish alone. By addressing both positioning and volume, Dr Turner creates balanced, proportionate breast contour while adding the desired fullness.

Reversing Post-Pregnancy Changes

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and aging often cause both volume loss and breast ptosis. This combined procedure effectively addresses these simultaneous changes, helping restore pre-pregnancy breast appearance.

Improving Breast Asymmetry

Natural breast asymmetry in size, shape, or position can be successfully corrected through this dual approach. Dr Turner tailors the technique to each breast individually, creating improved symmetry and balance.

Creating Upper Breast Fullness

One of the most appreciated outcomes is the enhanced contour throughout the breast, particularly in the upper portion. This creates a more youthful silhouette while maintaining natural-looking results proportionate to your body frame.

Before and afters

Want to see Dr Turners’s results with previous patients?

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Two stage Breast Lift and Implants – Patient underwent breast lift and 9 months later proceeded with second stage breast augmentation. Photos are take at 2 years postoperatively

Breast Lift with Implants

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Mastopexy-Augmentation

Dr Turner carefully evaluates each patient seeking a combined breast lift with implants at his Sydney clinics. This procedure works best when patients meet certain health and lifestyle criteria for optimal healing and long-term results.

Essential Candidacy Requirements

Good Health Status: You should be in good physical health without medical conditions that might compromise healing or increase surgical risks. Dr Turner conducts a thorough health assessment during your consultation.
Psychological Readiness: Having realistic expectations about surgical outcomes is crucial. Current regulations require all cosmetic surgery patients to undergo psychological evaluation to confirm suitability for elective aesthetic procedures.
Stable Weight: You should be at or near your target weight before surgery. Significant weight changes after surgery can alter results, potentially affecting both the lift component and implant positioning.
Tobacco-Free Lifestyle: Smoking and vaping significantly impair healing by restricting blood flow to tissues. To minimize complications, you must stop all nicotine products for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery.
Future Pregnancy Considerations: If you’re planning future pregnancies, discuss this with Dr Turner. While the procedure typically doesn’t impact breastfeeding ability, subsequent pregnancies may require revision surgery to restore results.

During your consultation at either the Manly or Double Bay clinic, Dr Turner will determine if this procedure aligns with your health status and aesthetic goals.

How a Breast Lift with Implants Differs from Other Breast Procedures

Understanding how different procedures address specific concerns helps you make an informed decision. A breast lift with implants by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Scott J Turner combines two techniques for comprehensive results that neither procedure can achieve alone.

Comparison with Standalone Procedures

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Only

A breast lift without implants repositions ptotic breast tissue and nipples to a more elevated position. However, it cannot add volume or fullness, particularly in the upper breast. Patients with adequate natural breast tissue who are satisfied with their size but concerned about drooping may find a standalone lift sufficient.

Breast Implants Only

Breast augmentation increases breast size but cannot correct moderate to severe ptosis. When implants are placed in significantly drooping breasts without a lift, the result can appear unnatural with the implant sitting high while natural breast tissue remains low.

Breast Reduction

Unlike breast lift with implants, a breast reduction removes excess breast tissue to decrease size while also lifting the breast. This option suits patients experiencing physical discomfort from overly large breasts rather than those seeking additional volume.

One-Stage or Two-Stage Procedure

Dr Scott J Turner offers two distinct approaches for breast lift with implants. Each method has specific advantages, and Dr Turner will determine the optimal approach for your unique needs during your consultation.

Two-Stage Approach: Sequential Procedures

This advanced approach separates the breast lift and implant placement into two distinct operations with a healing period (typically 6 months) between them.

Key Benefits of Two-Stage Approach:

Superior Predictability: Creates a stable tissue foundation before implant placement, resulting in more predictable final positioning
Customized Implant Selection: Allows precise implant selection based on the fully healed breast tissue
Reduced Complication Rates: Lower risk of healing complications by minimizing tissue tension
Enhanced Nipple Positioning: More accurate final nipple placement without the influence of implant pressure
Optimal for Complex Cases: Delivers superior results for patients with significant sagging or thin breast tissue
Long-Term Stability: Generally provides more durable results with reduced need for revisions
Lower Risk of Implant Displacement: Better support structure for implants once tissues are fully healed

This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with significant ptosis (sagging), thin tissue, advanced age-related changes, or those desiring larger implants.

Single-Stage Approach: Combined Procedure

This approach combines both the breast lift and implant placement in one comprehensive surgical session.

Key Benefits of Single-Stage Approach:

One Recovery Period: Requires only a single healing period instead of two separate recoveries
Immediate Volume Enhancement: Provides immediate restoration of both position and volume
Cost Efficiency: Generally more affordable as it involves a single anaesthetic, hospital stay, and recovery period
Shorter Overall Treatment Time: Complete results achieved in 3-6 months versus 9-12 months for two-stage
Fewer Days Off Work: Requires fewer total days away from work and normal activities
Psychological Benefit: Immediate visual improvement with both lift and volume addressed simultaneously
Simplified Planning: Less complex surgical scheduling and recovery management

Ideal candidates for this approach have mild to moderate ptosis, good tissue quality and elasticity, desire smaller to moderate-sized implants, and are in excellent overall health.

The Breast Lift with Implants Surgery Process

Dr Turner performs all breast lift with implant procedures under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited hospital with the assistance of a qualified anaesthetist. The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on complexity.

Stage 1: Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

When performed as a two-stage approach, the first stage focuses on repositioning breast tissue:

Tissue Assessment: Dr Turner evaluates breast tissue quality, skin elasticity, and nipple position to determine the optimal lift technique.
Incision Patterns: Depending on the degree of ptosis, different incision patterns may be used:
- Periareolar (around the areola)
- Vertical (lollipop)
- Anchor (inverted-T)
Tissue Reshaping: Excess skin is removed, and breast tissue is reshaped to create a firmer contour.
Nipple Repositioning: The nipple and areola are moved to a higher position on the breast.

Stage 2: Breast Augmentation

Once healing from the lift is complete (6 months later), breast implants are placed:

Implant Selection: Based on your anatomy and goals, Dr Turner helps select appropriate implant type, size, and profile.
Implant Placement: Implants are positioned either:
- Subglandular (above the muscle)
- Submuscular (below the muscle)
- Dual-plane (partially under the muscle)
Final Contouring: Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure optimal symmetry and contour.

What to Expect During Your Consultation with Dr Turner

Selecting the right specialist for your breast enhancement procedure is crucial for achieving safe, natural-looking results. Dr Scott J Turner stands apart as a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon serving patients throughout Sydney from his Manly and Double Bay clinics.

Expert Qualifications & Patient-Centered Approach

FRACS Specialist Plastic Surgeon: Dr Turner holds the prestigious Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery, the highest qualification for plastic surgeons in Australia
Advanced Breast Surgery Expertise: With focused experience in aesthetic and reconstructive breast procedures, Dr Turner utilizes the latest surgical techniques for breast lift with implants

Your Consultation Experience

Your breast lift with implants journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at either Dr Turner’s Manly or Double Bay clinics in Sydney. During this visit, Dr Turner will:

Conduct a thorough physical assessment of your breast tissue, skin elasticity, and degree of ptosis
Listen carefully to understand your aesthetic goals and expectations
Discuss implant options including type, shape, profile, and appropriate sizing
Develop a customized treatment plan considering your natural anatomy, desired outcome, lifestyle factors, and long-term results
Recommend either a single-stage or two-stage surgical approach based on your unique circumstances
Provide comprehensive education about procedure options, recovery expectations, and potential risks

Recovery after Breast Lift with Implants

Recovering from a breast lift with implants (augmentation mastopexy) involves several stages and requires careful attention to Dr Turner’s post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. The recovery process is similar to that of a standard breast lift but with additional considerations due to the implants.

Rest & Elevation: Rest is crucial during your recovery. For the first 2 weeks after your procedure, keep your head and back elevated on a few pillows while sleeping to minimize swelling. Most patients can sleep on their sides after approximately 3 weeks, though this may take longer with implants due to increased breast sensitivity.
Post-Operative Dressings: The sutures for all breast incisions are self-dissolving, eliminating the need for suture removal. Specialised waterproof dressings will be applied to support the wounds during the first week. Dr Turner will change these at your first follow-up appointment and assess your early healing.
Cold Compresses: Bruising, swelling and discomfort in your breast region are expected and may be more pronounced with combined lift and implant procedures. The use of cold compresses to your chest area in the first few days is a simple and effective measure to reduce swelling and provide comfort.
Compression Garments: You will be provided with a surgical compression bra to wear full time for the first 4-6 weeks post-surgery. This special garment supports your new breast contours, minimizes movement of the implants, and helps manage post-operative discomfort. After this initial period, Dr Turner recommends sleeping in the surgical garment at night for 6 months and wearing a supportive sports bra during the day.
Incision Care: Scar management is crucial for achieving optimal aesthetic results. Breast surgery scars naturally mature over 3 years before they reach their final appearance. During this time, we recommend a comprehensive protocol of scar management, which includes silicone scar therapy, sun protection, and possible laser treatments after the initial healing period.
Medications: The anaesthetist will provide you with antibiotics to prevent infection and prescription pain medication that you can take at home over the first week. Some patients with implants may require a slightly longer course of pain management compared to lift-only patients.
Normal Activities & Exercise: Most women can gradually return to normal activities over the first 2 weeks. However, with implants, it’s especially important to avoid heavy lifting (anything over 2kg) during this time. High-intensity exercise needs to be avoided for the first 6 weeks, and strong upper body/chest exercises should be avoided for 3 months to allow for complete healing and proper implant positioning.
Follow-Up Appointments: Dr Turner recommends frequent follow-up visits during the first year after breast lift with implants surgery. These reviews should be in person at our Sydney clinic at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to monitor your healing progress and the settling of your implants.

Special Considerations for Implants

Implant Settling: It’s normal for breast implants to initially sit higher on the chest. The implants will gradually settle into their final position over 3-6 months.
Sensory Changes: Temporary numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity in the breast area and nipples is common after surgery. Most sensation returns gradually over 3-12 months, though some changes may be permanent.
Implant Monitoring: While modern implants are designed for durability, they are not lifetime devices. Dr Turner will discuss appropriate long-term monitoring of your implants during your follow-up appointments.

Recovery from breast lift with implants typically takes longer than a standard breast lift alone. Most patients can return to desk work within 1-2 weeks, but complete recovery with full resumption of all activities may take 6-8 weeks or more. Final results, including the settling of implants and resolution of all swelling, may take up to 6 months to fully appreciate.

Learn more about recovery after breast lift surgery.

Risks and Complications of Breast Lift with Implants

As with any surgery, it is important that you are fully informed of the potential risks associated with breast lift with implants surgery. While all care is taken to minimize these complications, they may and do occur despite the best medical care.

It is important that you carefully read and understand the potential risks and they will be discussed in further detail when you have your consultation with Dr Turner.

General Surgical Risks

Scarring: Visible scarring is expected, though it typically fades over time. In some cases, scars may remain more prominent or raised (hypertrophic scars or keloids).
Infection: Infections can occur at the incision sites or around the implant, which may require antibiotic treatment or, in rare cases, implant removal and replacement.
Sensation Changes: Some patients may experience alterations in nipple or breast sensation. This may be temporary or permanent.
Asymmetry: Breast size, shape, or nipple position may differ slightly after surgery. Revision surgery may be required to correct significant asymmetry.
Delayed Wound Healing: Delayed wound healing can happen, especially along incision lines. This is more likely in smokers (including vaping) or individuals with certain health conditions (e.g., diabetes).
Bleeding or Hematoma: Some patients may experience excessive bleeding during or after surgery, leading to the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin). In some cases, this may require additional surgery.
Seroma: A collection of fluid may form in the surgical area, requiring drainage.
Fat Necrosis: In rare instances, fat tissue in the breast may develop hardened areas, forming firm lumps.
Blood Clots: There is a risk of blood clots, particularly in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), after surgery.
Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia carries its own set of potential risks, which will be discussed by your anaesthetist.

Implant-Specific Risks

Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and contracts, potentially distorting the breast shape or causing discomfort. Additional surgery may be required to address this complication.
Implant Malposition: Implants may shift from their intended position, resulting in an undesired appearance.
Implant Rupture or Leakage: Implants can rupture or leak over time, which may necessitate removal or replacement of the implant.
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A rare type of lymphoma that can develop around breast implants, particularly textured implants. Dr Turner uses smooth implants which have lower associated risks.
Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some patients report various symptoms they associate with their breast implants. While not officially recognized as a medical diagnosis, Dr Turner will discuss this potential concern during your consultation.
Implant Visibility or Rippling: In some cases, implant edges may be visible or palpable under the skin, particularly in thin patients.

Functional Considerations

Breastfeeding Considerations: The ability to breastfeed may be affected, especially if significant tissue is removed or if the nipple is repositioned. Some patients can breastfeed after surgery, but it’s not guaranteed.
Mammography Considerations: Breast implants may complicate mammogram interpretation. Special techniques may be required for future mammograms.
Future Surgeries: Breast implants are not lifetime devices and may require replacement or removal in the future.
Nipple Circulation: Rarely, the blood supply to the nipple can be affected during a lift procedure, leading to tissue damage.

Dr Turner will discuss these risks with you in detail during your consultation, addressing your specific concerns and explaining the measures taken to minimize these complications. It’s important to follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to reduce your risk of complications.

Learn more about risks of breast lift with implant surgery

Breast Lift with Implant Costs in Sydney

Breast lift with implants is a more complex procedure than standard breast augmentation, requiring advanced surgical skill to achieve optimal results.

Comprehensive Fee Structure

The cost for a breast lift with implants in Sydney typically ranges from $14,000 to $28,000. This all-inclusive fee covers:

Specialist Plastic Surgeon’s fees
Anaesthetist fees
High-quality breast implants
Hospital facility fees
Surgical garments for post-operative support
All follow-up appointments for one year following your procedure

Medicare and Private Health Insurance:

Some patients may be eligible for Medicare rebates if the procedure addresses significant functional issues. During your consultation, Dr Turner will assess your eligibility for potential rebates. Private health insurance may cover hospital fees for eligible procedures.

Factors Influencing Your Specific Costs:

Several elements affect the total investment in your procedure:

Surgical Approach: One-stage versus two-stage procedures have different cost structures
Procedure Complexity: The degree of ptosis and required tissue repositioning
Implant Selection: Type, brand, and features of chosen implants
Hospital Stay: Day surgery versus overnight stay requirements
Individual Anatomy: Your unique tissue characteristics and surgical needs

For detailed information about breast lift with implants pricing or to schedule a consultation, visit the Prices for Breast Surgery page.

Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Lift

What is the difference between a breast lift and breast implants?

A breast lift (mastopexy) corrects breast tissue positioning by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue, whereas implants increase volume through silicone or saline implants. While a lift restores breast contour, it does not add volume, making implants necessary for patients seeking both repositioning and enhancement.

Can I combine a breast lift with implants in one procedure?

Yes, augmentation mastopexy can combine both procedures in a single operation for appropriate candidates. However, Dr Turner will assess your specific situation to determine whether a single-stage or two-stage approach is most appropriate. Factors considered include tissue quality, degree of repositioning needed, and overall health status.

How long do the results of breast lift with implants last?

Results typically endure for many years, though ageing, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can alter outcomes. Implant replacement may be needed in the future due to various factors, while tissue repositioning might require revision as natural ageing continues. Maintaining stable weight and following post-operative care instructions can help extend results.

What is the recovery timeline after breast lift with implants?

Initial recovery typically spans 1-2 weeks, during which most patients can return to desk work. Full recovery, including resumption of strenuous activities, typically takes 6-8 weeks. However, complete resolution of swelling and final settling of implants may take several months. Dr Turner provides comprehensive post-operative guidelines to optimize your recovery.

Will a breast lift with implants affect breastfeeding ability?

While tissue repositioning and implant placement may affect milk ducts, many patients retain breastfeeding capability. However, outcomes vary based on surgical technique and individual anatomy. If future pregnancies are planned, it’s important to discuss this with Dr Turner during your consultation, as pregnancy can affect surgical results.

How do I know if I need a breast lift, implants, or both?

Nipple position relative to the breast crease is one determining factor. If your nipple sits below the crease, a lift may be appropriate. If volume loss is your primary concern but your breast tissue is well-positioned, implants alone may suffice. Dr Turner will perform a comprehensive assessment during your consultation to determine the most appropriate approach.

What types of implants are used in breast lift with implant procedures?

Dr Turner uses high-quality silicone implants from reputable manufacturers. Options include varying profiles (how far the implant projects from the chest wall), sizes, and shapes. During your consultation, Dr Turner will discuss which implant options may be most appropriate for your anatomy and goals.

How are the scars from a breast lift with implants?

Incision patterns for a breast lift with implants vary depending on the degree of repositioning required. These may include periareolar (around the areola), vertical (lollipop), or anchor (inverted-T) patterns. Dr Turner employs careful surgical techniques to minimize scarring, and scars typically fade significantly over time, though they never disappear completely.

What are the advantages of a two-stage approach versus a single operation?

A two-stage approach allows for complete tissue healing between procedures, potentially reducing complications and allowing for more precise implant selection after the tissue has settled. The single-stage approach offers the benefit of a single recovery period but may have higher revision rates. Dr Turner will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your clinical assessment.

What is involved in long-term care after breast lift with implants?

Long-term care includes regular follow-up appointments with Dr Turner, particularly in the first year after surgery. Regular breast examinations and appropriate imaging studies (with technicians experienced in imaging breasts with implants) are recommended. Modern implants are durable but not lifetime devices, so future procedures may be necessary to maintain results.

Is it better to get a lift with or without implants?

Whether to choose a breast lift with or without implants depends entirely on your individual goals and breast characteristics. A breast lift alone is ideal if you’re satisfied with your breast volume but concerned about sagging. Dr Scott J Turner recommends adding implants when patients desire both improved position and increased volume, particularly in the upper pole of the breast. During your consultation at his Sydney clinics in Manly or Double Bay, Dr Turner will assess your breast tissue and discuss whether a lift alone or combined with implants would best achieve your aesthetic goals.

Will my breast implants look bigger if I lose weight?

Breast implants maintain their same volume regardless of weight fluctuations, but your overall breast appearance may change if you lose significant weight. As natural breast tissue is partly composed of fat, weight loss can reduce the volume of your natural breast tissue surrounding the implant, potentially making the implants appear relatively more prominent. This is why Dr Turner recommends patients reach their target weight before undergoing breast lift with implants surgery at his Sydney clinics, ensuring the most predictable and harmonious long-term results.

Do nipples get smaller after a breast lift?

A breast lift procedure often includes areola reduction as part of the standard technique, particularly when addressing significant ptosis. Dr Turner can adjust the diameter of the areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple) during your breast lift with implants procedure at his Sydney clinics. This creates a more proportionate appearance that complements your newly positioned and shaped breasts. The actual nipple projection typically remains relatively unchanged, though its position on the breast will be higher and more centrally located.

How painful is a breast lift with implants?

Most patients describe the discomfort after a breast lift with implants as moderate and manageable with prescribed pain medication. The sensation is typically characterized as pressure or tightness rather than sharp pain. Dr Turner’s patients at his Sydney clinics in Manly and Double Bay receive comprehensive pain management protocols, including pre-emptive analgesia and detailed post-operative medication schedules. Most patients report that discomfort peaks within the first 2-3 days before progressively improving, with many returning to light activities within 1-2 weeks.

Who is a good candidate for a breast lift with implants?

Ideal candidates for breast lift with implants at Dr Turner’s Sydney clinics include women who:

Have breast ptosis (sagging) combined with volume loss
Are in good overall physical health without conditions that impair healing
Maintain stable body weight
Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery
Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
Have completed family planning (as pregnancy can alter results)
Can undergo the required psychological assessment (per July 2023 regulations)

During your consultation, Dr Turner conducts a thorough assessment to determine if this combined procedure is appropriate for your specific situation or if an alternative approach might better achieve your aesthetic goals.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results may vary. Dr. Scott J Turner is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS Plast) registered with AHPRA and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

Sydney Clinic Locations:

Breast Lift with Implants (Mastopexy and Augmentation) Sydney, Australia

Breast Lift with Implants (Mastopexy and Augmentation) dr turner