Breast

When considering a breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, many patients arrive with expectations shaped by online images and stories that often overlook the realities of the procedure. A clear understanding of what this surgery can—and cannot—attain is essential for anyone exploring this option.

Dr Sophie Ricketts, a leading Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne, emphasises the importance of education in helping patients make informed, well-prepared decisions.

The Purpose of a Breast Lift

A breast lift (Mastopexy) is designed to adjust the position and shape of the breasts. Over time, changes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and the natural ageing process can affect breast tissue and skin elasticity. Mastopexy involves repositioning the breast tissue higher on the chest and removing excess skin, which can also include resizing or repositioning the areolae to match the new shape.

Dr Ricketts explains that the main objective of this surgery is to create a shape that better aligns with the patient’s individual anatomy and personal goals. It’s important to note that a breast lift does not significantly increase (or decrease) volume or size. For patients seeking more fullness, a combined procedure involving implants may be more appropriate. A clear understanding of these distinctions is crucial to setting appropriate goals.

Setting Realistic Expectations

One of the key elements of the consultation process is helping patients develop realistic expectations. This is especially important when it comes the patient’s inherent skin elasticity. Some people genetically have very good firm elastic skin which tends to hold a breast shape well. Others have very thin stretchy skin which does not support breast shape well and these patients tend to have struggled with a droopy breast shape from early on – even in their 20s or younger. It is normal for the breasts to relax slightly as swelling decreases and tissues settle over the first few months after surgery. This will be more for someone with stretchy skin and less for someone with good skin elasticity.

Scars are an unavoidable part of a breast lift. While these typically fade over time with good aftercare, they remain a necessary aspect of the procedure. Dr Ricketts ensures patients are fully informed about the placement and expected appearance of scars, particularly around the areolae and beneath the breast fold.

Furthermore, while a mastopexy can help improve current breast shape, it does not prevent future changes that may occur due to lifestyle or biological factors. Dr Ricketts encourages patients to view the procedure as a long-term improvement rather than a final or unchanging solution.

The Importance of Communication

Dr Sophie Ricketts stresses that open, honest communication between surgeon and patient is essential for attaining satisfying outcomes. During consultations, she encourages patients to express their concerns, objectives, and expectations openly. This allows for a surgical plan that is personalised and aligned with what is realistically possible.

To aid decision-making, Dr Ricketts provides visual examples and explains both the benefits and the limitations of the procedure. Discussions also cover potential complications and the variability in individual healing, helping patients prepare thoroughly.

Aftercare and Recovery

Post-operative care is a crucial part of achieving good results from a breast lift. Dr Ricketts provides patients with detailed aftercare instructions, including wearing supportive garments and avoiding strenuous activity for a defined period. Careful wound care, rest, and time are all important for proper healing.

Patience is important, as the final appearance of the breasts may not be fully evident for a few months. Dr Ricketts advises patients to be mindful of this timeline to avoid unnecessary concern during recovery.

If you are in Melbourne and considering a breast lift, a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts can provide you with the knowledge and guidance needed to make a well-informed decision. With a commitment to realistic planning and individualised care, Dr Ricketts helps each patient explore what the procedure can offer in alignment with their personal objectives. Schedule your consultation to learn more about how a breast lift may work for you.

Breast augmentation continues to be a sought-after procedure for women looking to improve or restore their body shape. While the decision to undergo surgery is deeply personal, age can influence both the motivation behind the choice and the expected outcomes. Whether you’re in your 20s or 40s, understanding how your body may respond differently at each stage is essential. Dr Sophie Ricketts, one of the respected plastic surgeons in Melbourne, Australia, shares her insights on how breast augmentation can vary depending on age.

In Your 20s: Body Development and Early Planning

During your 20s, your body is still adjusting to hormonal shifts and settling into its adult shape. Some women in this age group choose breast augmentation to improve volume, correct asymmetry, or better align their breast shape with their body proportions.

Dr Sophie Ricketts explains that younger patients typically have more resilient skin and supportive tissue, making it easier for the body to adapt to implants. Recovery can be quicker, and there may be fewer anatomical limitations when it comes to implant placement or sizing.

However, she also notes the importance of considering future changes, such as pregnancy or breastfeeding, which can affect the long-term outcome. For this reason, many plastic surgeons in Melbourne, Australia, including Dr Ricketts, encourage open discussions about future plans to help guide the choice of implant type and technique.

In Your 40s: Adjusting to Life’s Changes

Women in their 40s often seek breast augmentation for reasons that extend beyond size improvement. At this stage, life experiences such as childbirth, weight changes, and the natural ageing process can all affect the shape and position of the breasts.

It’s common for women in this age group to pair augmentation with a lift. This combined approach addresses both volume and shape, offering a more balanced outcome tailored to the body’s current condition. Skin may be less elastic, and breast tissue composition may have shifted, which can influence implant selection and surgical planning.

Women in their 40s might also prefer subtler improvements that align with their lifestyle and how their bodies have changed over time. While recovery is still manageable, Dr Ricketts points out that healing may take slightly longer compared to younger patients.

What Stays the Same: Key Considerations Across Ages

Regardless of age, the decision to undergo breast augmentation should be approached with thoughtful planning and professional guidance. Dr Sophie Ricketts emphasises the importance of individualised care, especially when evaluating long-term maintenance and the potential need for future procedures.

Whether you’re in your 20s or 40s, consulting with experienced and qualified plastic surgeons helps ensure that your objectives are addressed with professionalism and clarity. Understanding how your body may respond to implants and what to expect in the years ahead is key to a successful outcome.

Breast augmentation offers different benefits depending on your stage in life. In your 20s, it may be about improvement and shaping; in your 40s, it may be about restoring what time and life have changed. With the expertise of professionals like Dr Sophie Ricketts, patients can navigate these decisions with insight and care. No matter your age, working with a trusted surgeon can help ensure that your objectives align with the realities of your body today—and tomorrow.

Over time, the body undergoes natural changes due to factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and ageing. The breasts, in particular, can be affected, leading to a loss of firmness. If you are considering ways to restore a firmer and more lifted breast shape, you may be wondering whether a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is the right option for you.

A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and reposition the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Unlike breast augmentation, a lift does not involve implants—its primary objective is to reshape the breasts and improve their position. So, how do you know if you are a good candidate? Here are some key signs to consider.

1. Your Breasts Have Lost Their Shape and Firmness

One of the most common reasons women consider a breast lift is a noticeable change in breast shape and firmness. Over time, the skin loses elasticity, which can cause the breasts to sit lower on the chest. If you feel that your breasts no longer have the shape they once did, a lift can help improve their position.

2. Your Nipples Point Downwards

A clear sign of this is when the nipples begin to point downward rather than forward. This often happens because the breast tissue has stretched, causing the nipples to shift lower on the breast. A breast lift repositions the nipples to sit higher, improving the overall balance of the breasts.

3. Your Breasts Sit Below the Natural Breast Fold

An easy way to assess whether you might need a lift is to try the “pencil test.” Place a pencil under the natural fold of your breast (where the lower part meets the chest). If your breast tissue falls below the pencil and remains unsupported, it may indicate a degree of ptosis (drooping) that a breast lift can address.

4. You Have Experienced Changes from Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly impact the size, shape, and position of the breasts. Many women find that their breasts appear stretched and have lost volume after having children. If you are unhappy with these changes and wish to restore a firmer shape, a breast lift may be a suitable option. However, if you plan to have more children in the near future, it may be advisable to postpone surgery, as future pregnancies can affect the results.

5. You Have Lost a Significant Amount of Weight

Weight loss can also contribute to a loss of firmness. When you lose weight, the fat that once gave your breasts volume may diminish, leaving behind excess skin. A breast lift can help reshape the breasts to better suit your new body proportions.

6. You Are Happy With Your Breast Size in a Non-Padded Bra

A breast lift does not significantly change the size of your breasts—it simply reshapes and repositions them. If you are satisfied with your current breast volume but not with their position, a lift alone may be the right choice. However, if you would like more fullness, you might consider combining a breast lift with breast augmentation (implants).

7. You Are in Good Overall Health

Like any surgical procedure, a breast lift requires good general health to support healing and recovery. Ideal candidates are non-smokers, maintain a stable weight, and do not have medical conditions that could interfere with the healing process. During your consultation, Dr Sophie Ricketts will assess your medical history and lifestyle to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.

Is a Breast Lift Right for You?

Deciding to undergo a breast lift is a personal choice that should be made with careful consideration. If you identify with one or more of the signs mentioned above and wish to restore a firmer, more lifted breast shape, a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, can help you explore your options.

Dr Ricketts focuses on attaining results that blend seamlessly and remain balanced through a personalised surgical approach. If you would like to learn more about breast lift surgery, booking a consultation can help you make an informed decision about what’s right for you.

As we welcome Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you should know that breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 20 000 new cases each year.

While breast cancer cannot be prevented, treatment outcomes are far more successful if it’s caught early. Regularly checking your breasts for any changes can make a big difference in how soon you are diagnosed.

Getting to know how your breasts usually feel is incredibly important. Familiarising yourself with how your breasts feel on a day-to-day basis will make it much easier to notice when there are any changes. Some women, for example, have very fibrous breast tissue, so they may feel some lumps and bumps every time they check their breasts. Knowing your breasts will enable you to tell what’s new and what’s normal for you.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

One of the most common reasons for seeking a breast cancer diagnosis is the discovery of a lump in the breast tissue. These lumps will feel distinctly more solid than the rest of your breast tissue and may or may not be painful. Other signs to keep an eye out for include changes to the shape and size of the breast, a change in skin texture, or changes in the nipple. Therefore, it’s so important to be familiar with your breasts before doing your at-home check. ‘Orange peel’ skin or a scaly appearance could indicate something amiss, while sores, crusting, or discharge from the nipple are also signs of concern.

It is, however, important to remember that there are many possible reasons for a change in your breasts. If you notice any significant changes, you should see a doctor for a complete breast exam. If you are nervous about the exam, go with a friend, family member, or your partner.

How to Check Your Breasts At Home

To conduct an at-home breast check, you should remove all the clothing above your waist and lie down. This will help to spread your breasts out evenly, making it easier to feel for lumps. Start by using the pads of three middle fingers to feel for lumps or changes in texture, moving from your collarbone toward the bottom of your bra line, including your armpit. Make sure to alternate the two breasts and use a spiral pattern to check for any irregularities.

During the breast exam, you should use different pressure levels to feel for any lumps or thickening in the breast. A light touch will be enough to feel tissue close to the skin, while medium to firm pressure will allow you to feel deeper tissue. Make sure you do not lift your finger too high or too low off the skin.

When Should I Check My Breasts?

Because your breasts change during your menstrual period, it is recommended that you wait until just after your period to do your at-home breast exam. Your breasts can be more sensitive and feel different during your period due to hormonal fluctuations, so it is suggested that you choose a day roughly a week after the end of your period to do your exam.

According to women’s health experts, breast exams should be done at least once a month. If you notice changes in your breasts, make an appointment with your OB/GYN or primary care physician as soon as possible. These providers will order further tests, such as a mammogram or an ultrasound. However, remember that not all breast changes indicate cancer. While waiting for test results can be terrifying, try not to panic if you notice anything unusual or concerning in your breast during your self-exam.

How Can We Help?

As a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Sophie Ricketts provides many different options for breast surgery.

Even if an entire breast was removed (for example, to treat or prevent cancer, or as a result of other trauma), there are many options for performing a successful breast reconstruction. Many types of reconstructive surgery exist, and each case is unique. Generally, rebuilding the breast after mastectomy may involve breast augmentation, followed by nipple and areola re-creation where necessary. In some cases, breast reconstruction surgery also involves the other breast, so that the two breasts can be matched in shape and size.

Sometimes, the treatment plan allows to perform immediate breast reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy.  However, you may be relieved to know that delayed reconstruction, months or even years following surgery, is also a possibility.

Dr. Sophie Ricketts gets great satisfaction from helping patients to feel comfortable and confident in their bodies, especially following a traumatic event such as a cancer diagnosis and grueling treatment regime.

To find out more about breast surgery options, please see here.

To arrange a consultation with Dr. Sophie Ricketts, please have a look here.

Breast augmentation is a major surgery and usually involves between six and eight weeks of recovery time.

If you have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding, or would simply like to enhance the size and symmetry of your breasts, you might consider breast augmentation surgery. The treatment is very popular thanks to its ability to achieve excellent results, but it is important to understand that it takes time to fully recover from the surgery. Read on to find out what to expect from the recovery process, and what you can do to aid the healing process…

What can you expect after surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, which means that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure itself. Once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off, however, you are likely to feel some pain. It is usually possible to leave the hospital within a few hours of surgery, but you will need someone to drive you home.

 

Your surgeon will provide you with a compression garment, which you should wear for the recommend time. This will help to minimise swelling, as well as build-of fluid. You will also be provided with medications to manage any discomfort that you feel.

 

Within a week or so, you should be able to resume some light day-to-day activities. You will, however, need to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for around six weeks.

 

It is completely normal to experience some soreness, bruising and swelling for a few weeks after surgery. You will also notice surgical scars at the site of incision, but these will gradually fade with time. Speak to your surgeon about ways in which you can reduce scarring.

 

After around two months following breast augmentation surgery, you are likely to enjoy a full recovery. Your surgeon will let you know when it is safe for you to get back to your usual activities and exercise routine.

What can you do for a smooth recovery?

All patients are different, and your recovery will depend on a few factors, including your overall health and age. There are, however, a few things you can do to increase the chances of a good recovery process.

 

It is important that you wear any recovery garments that you have been provided with as these provide support and can help to manage painful side-effects. You should also take proper care of your surgical wounds and ensure that you keep them clean.

 

To manage painful side-effects, be sure to take any medications that your surgeon has prescribed. In some cases, you may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection.

 

It is very helpful to prepare your home before you go in for surgery — arrange help with housework if you can, prepare some meals in advance, and set up a comfortable space in which to rest. Try to stick to a healthy, balanced diet and drink plenty of water as this will aid the healing process.

 

If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon. It is also important that you attend any follow-up appointments that have been scheduled so that your surgeon can check that you are healing as you should.

 

How can we help?

Dr Sophie Ricketts offers a number of procedures for the breasts, including breast augmentation. If you would like to enhance the size of your breasts, we encourage you to come in for a consultation so that you can discuss your particular aesthetic goals and concerns with Dr Ricketts. Dr Ricketts will guide you through the process and address any questions that you have along the way.

To find out more about breast augmentation and what the surgery involves, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.

Breast reduction can reduce back pain, as well as shoulder and neck pain caused by heavy breasts.

Often, women with particularly large and heavy breasts struggle with discomfort and pain in the back, neck and shoulders as a result of the excess weight in the chest area. They may also have difficulty with exercising, as well as finding clothes that fit comfortably. The good news is that breast reduction surgery is a highly effective procedure for women who feel uncomfortable with the size of their breasts.

Read on to find out more about the procedure and how it can alleviate pain while improving the overall aesthetic of the breasts.

When should you consider a breast reduction?

In most cases, it is advisable to wait until after puberty before going ahead with breast reduction surgery. By the age of 17 years old, the breasts will be fully developed, and the procedure may be an appropriate option at this stage.

It is important to understand that bodyweight fluctuations can affect the size of the breasts, so if you are actively trying to lose weight, it is worth letting your surgeon know. They may recommend that you wait until you have reached a stable weight before you undergo surgery.

Another important factor to consider before you go ahead with breast reduction surgery is the fact that any breast surgery can affect breastfeeding. So, if you are planning a family, be sure to discuss this with your surgeon.

Does breast reduction include a breast lift?

As part of the natural ageing process (and especially after pregnancy), heavy and large breasts often begin to droop. When breasts sag below the ribs, it can lead to poor posture, as well as excess strain on the shoulders and back muscles.

One of the benefits of breast reduction surgery is that the procedure includes a breast lift. Both the removal of excess tissue and the change of the breast position on the chest contribute to one’s improved comfort following surgery.

What is the ideal size?

By reducing the size and weight of the breasts and lifting the breasts into a better position, it is possible to reduce, and in some cases, even completely alleviate back pain in the back, neck and shoulders. When it comes to choosing the ideal size, it depends on your particular needs and aesthetic goals. It is helpful to speak to your surgeon about the kinds of results that you are hoping to achieve with a breast reduction, as they will be able to advise you based on your overall body size and shape. It is important to understand that each patient is different, so your treatment will be completely tailored to suit your needs and preferences. Don’t be afraid to raise any questions that you have with your surgeon and to ask for their input when it comes to choosing a breast size that will look and feel good on your body.

How can we help?

Dr Sophie Ricketts offers a range of breast procedures, including breast reduction surgery. If you are concerned about the size of your breasts and are suffering from issues like back pain and rashes under the breasts, we encourage you to come in for a consultation.

When you come in and see Dr Sophie Ricketts, she will confirm that you are a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery. She will explain the procedure to you in detail and address any concerns and questions that you have. She will also take the time to understand your aesthetic goals and guide you through your treatment from beginning to end.

If you would like to find out more about breast reduction surgery and what it involves, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.  We look forward to reducing your pain and helping you achieve a more balanced aesthetic.