Breast Implants and Lift (Augmentation Mastopexy)

An augmentation mastopexy brings together a breast lift and a breast implant in a single procedure. It suits women who want more volume and a higher, reshaped breast, where a lift on its own would not achieve the size they prefer, and an implant on its own would not correct a breast that has dropped. The two procedures work together to address both size and shape at the same time, which neither can achieve separately.

Combining an implant with a lift is a more complex operation than either procedure on its own, because the breast is being reshaped and an implant is being added at the same time, and the two changes have to be balanced against each other. The planning matters, and at your consultation, Dr Ricketts assesses your breasts and explains whether a single combined operation or a staged approach would be safer and more reliable for you. Please also read our breast implant information, as the implant related risks apply here too, including ongoing monitoring and the likelihood of future implant surgery.

An augmentation mastopexy may suit you if your breasts have descended and you would also like more volume, for example, after pregnancy or weight loss, and if you are in reasonable general health with realistic expectations. If you are happy with your volume, a lift alone may be enough, and if your breast sits well, an implant alone may be all you need. Because this is a more complex operation with a higher chance of needing a revision than either procedure alone, Dr Ricketts will discuss the trade offs carefully and give you her honest recommendation.

At your consultation, Dr Ricketts examines your breasts, assesses the position of the nipple, the quality of your skin and your existing volume, and discusses your goals. She explains whether a lift alone, an implant alone, or a combined augmentation mastopexy would suit you, and whether she would recommend a single or staged operation, along with the scars, recovery and risks. She gives you written information and time to consider your decision.

This procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, usually as a day case. On the day of surgery, Dr Ricketts reviews the plan with you and marks your breasts with you in the upright position before the procedure begins. Our team is with you throughout your admission and recovery, and you will leave wearing a supportive bra with written instructions.

An augmentation mastopexy is commonly performed with as a day case. You will wear a supportive bra, and in the first one to two weeks, you can expect swelling, bruising and discomfort across the chest, with movements of the chest and arms feeling restricted at first.

Many people return to desk work within around two weeks, with exercise restricted for about four weeks. It is recommended that you use tape on your scars for about six weeks. The breasts settle into their final shape over about three months as the swelling resolves and the skin relaxes. The scars fade gradually over a year or more. Dr Ricketts will see you for reviews and guide you on activity. Healing varies between individuals, and the outcomes one person experiences do not necessarily reflect what another will experience.

Dr Sophie Ricketts is a specialist plastic surgeon based in Richmond, Melbourne, with a focused practice in breast surgery, including breast implants and lift surgery (augmentation mastopexy). She is a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), the peak professional bodies for plastic surgery in Australia. You can also find her on RealSelf. Each of these listings is maintained by independent organisations and provides patients with a straightforward way to check the qualifications, training, and scope of practice of the listed providers before booking a consultation.