Technical Explanation of the Procedure
A breast lift and implant in Sydney, also known as augmentation mastopexy, is a combined surgical procedure designed to improve breast shape, position, and volume in a single operation. Many patients develop breast ptosis (sagging) and volume loss after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight change, or ageing. Therefore, augmentation mastopexy addresses both concerns simultaneously.
This operation combines two key components:
-
Breast lift (mastopexy) to reshape and reposition the breast and nipple-areola complex, and
-
Breast implants (augmentation) to restore or increase volume.
Importantly, augmentation mastopexy is not a “one-size-fits-all” operation. Instead, A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) tailors the surgical plan to your anatomy, breast tissue quality, and goals. In addition, during consultation, Dr Tim discusses scars, recovery, risks, and realistic expectations as part of informed consent.
Component 1: Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift improves breast position and contour by reshaping the breast tissue and removing excess skin. As a result, the breast can sit higher on the chest and appear more proportionate.
During mastopexy, Dr Tim:
-
removes excess skin,
-
reshapes breast tissue, and
-
repositions the nipple and areola to a more anatomically appropriate location.
Component 2: Breast Implants (Augmentation)
Breast implants can restore fullness and improve breast proportions. For this reason, implant selection forms a core part of surgical planning.
Dr Tim discusses:
-
implant type (silicone or saline),
-
implant size and profile, and
-
implant placement is based on your tissues and chest anatomy.
Implant placement options
Subglandular (above the muscle)
Dr Tim places the implant beneath breast tissue and above the pectoralis muscle. This option may be suitable for patients with adequate soft-tissue coverage.
Subfascial (beneath the fascia)
Dr Tim positions the implant beneath the pectoralis fascia (a thin, strong tissue layer). This approach may improve implant coverage in selected patients. Additionally, it can reduce certain muscle-related effects during movement.
Submuscular / dual-plane (beneath the muscle)
Dr Tim places the implant beneath the pectoralis major to increase upper-implant coverage. Consequently, this approach may be suitable for patients with thinner breast tissue.
Incision Techniques in Augmentation Mastopexy
Dr Tim selects the incision technique based on the degree of breast ptosis and how much reshaping is required. As ptosis increases, the incision pattern typically requires greater access for tissue repositioning.
Periareolar (“donut”) incision
Dr Tim places an incision around the edge of the areola. This option may be suitable for mild ptosis in selected patients.
Vertical (“lollipop”) incision
Dr Tim uses an incision around the areola and extends it vertically to the breast crease. This technique commonly suits moderate ptosis.
Inverted-T (“anchor”) incision
Dr. Tim makes an incision around the areola, extending vertically to the crease and horizontally along it. This pattern allows greater skin removal and reshaping where required.
Tailored Planning and Expected Outcomes
Augmentation mastopexy aims to improve breast position while restoring volume. However, outcomes vary between individuals. For this reason, Dr Tim carefully assesses anatomy and sets realistic goals during consultation.
Dr Tim will also discuss:
-
scar location and scar care,
-
recovery timeline and bra support,
-
surgical risks and limitations, and
-
whether staged surgery may be safer in selected cases.
Your suitability for breast lift and implant surgery in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.
