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Breast Lift without Implants (Mastopexy) Melbourne
Dr Craig Rubinstein, one of Melbourne’s most experienced plastic surgeons, specialises in the breast lift/mastopexy procedure. This surgical technique aims to elevate and firm the breasts, relocating them to a desired position on the chest wall.
During the breast lift procedure, excess skin that has stretched due to factors like pregnancy, aging, or weight fluctuations is carefully removed. This technique may be particularly suitable for individuals who are content with their breast size and proportions, but desire to alter breast descent (ptosis).
What is Breast Ptosis?
Breast ptosis occurs when the breast tissue and skin experience a reduction in elasticity, typically due to a decrease in collagen production. This natural process can be influenced by factors such as:
- Ageing
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Weight fluctuations
- Genetics
- The effects of gravity over time.
Breast ptosis is categorised into different degrees based on the extent of descent and the position of the nipple in relation to the breast fold. Mild ptosis involves a slight descent of the breast, while severe ptosis results in a significant dropping with the nipple located below the breast fold.
Understanding the degree of breast ptosis helps determine the appropriate treatment.
The 3 Grades of Breast Ptosis
- I – mild ptosis occurs when the areola is either in front of or slightly over the inframammary crease.
- II – mild to moderate ptosis occurs when the centre of the areola is close to 3cm below the inframammary crease.
- III – severe ptosis occurs when the areola is more than 3cm below the inframammary crease.
Further, different conditions can cause ptosis, or look similar to ptosis. These include:
- Ptosis – the medical term for when the breasts descend far enough that the nipple and areola are out of position relative to the breast crease.
- Empty Sac Syndrome – the breasts have lost volume due to age, genetics or breastfeeding. The nipple/areola is also in the incorrect position.
- Pseudoptosis – where the breast is lacking fullness. Your breasts may appear full below the nipples and areola, but not above.
What Causes Ptosis?
Breasts can naturally descend due to several factors, including:
- Gravity
- Over time, the effects of gravity can cause breast tissue to fall gradually.
- Skin Ageing
- The aging process leads to a decrease in collagen production, which affects skin elasticity, contributing to breast ptosis
- Pregnancy
- During pregnancy, breasts often enlarge and stretch, causing the skin and supporting structures to be stretched, potentially leading to descending after childbirth.
- Breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding can result in changes to the shape and position of the breasts, especially if the breast tissue becomes stretched and loses its elasticity.
- Weight Fluctuations
- Significant weight gain or loss can impact the firmness and elasticity of breast tissue, leading to ptosis.
- Genetic or Hereditary Factors
- Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to breast ptosis, with their breasts naturally having less structural support.
Breast ptosis is a common condition that affects women to varying degrees as they age, depending on a combination of these factors and their overall health.
Breast Lift Before and After Photos
Mastopexy Patient Pictures – Breast Lift Before and After Gallery
Below, you will find a collection of real patients before and after breast lift photos from Dr Craig Rubinstein.
For further patient before and after images, please contact us to book a consultation with Dr Craig Rubinstein.
Photo Disclaimer
The before and after photos displayed on our website or in our office are provided for informational purposes only. They are intended to offer an illustration of the potential outcomes that can be achieved through plastic and cosmetic surgery. However, it’s important to understand that individual results may vary, and the results of any surgical procedure cannot be guaranteed. The photos are not intended to serve as promises or a guarantee of specific results, but rather as a visual aid to help envision what is possible. It is crucial to recognise that each person is unique, and the outcome of surgery will be influenced by various factors such as overall health, body type, and healing ability. During your consultation, Dr. Rubinstein will carefully evaluate each individual and provide an honest and realistic assessment of what can be expected from the procedure.
Are You a Suitable Candidate for a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A suitable candidate for a breast lift/mastopexy typically exhibits one or more of the following characteristics:
- Descended breasts
- Candidates often have breasts that have lost their firmness, resulting in a downward shift of breast tissue.
- Nipple position below the breast crease
- The nipples may have descended below the natural fold of the breast.
- Loss of breast volume
- Some individuals may experience a decrease in breast fullness.
- This can be addressed by combining a breast lift (mastopexy) with an augmentation procedure using implants.
- Stretched or excess skin
- Candidates may have stretched skin that lacks elasticity, often due to factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging (reduced collagen production).
- General good health
- It is essential for candidates to be in overall good health and free from any underlying medical conditions that could pose risks during surgery or impede the healing process.
- Non-smoker
- Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Candidates must be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after the procedure.
- Realistic expectations
- Candidates should clearly understand a breast lift’s (mastopexy) potential outcomes and limitations.
- They need to maintain realistic expectations regarding the results.
It is advisable to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your individual case, conduct a thorough evaluation, and determine if a breast lift (mastopexy) is suitable for you based on your specific needs and goals.
Four Incision Patterns for Breast Lift without Implants (Mastopexy) Surgery
There are a variety of techniques recognised for augmentation mastopexy. Each has its merits and limitations.
In Australia, these include:
1. The Crescent Breast Lift
This breast lift procedure corrects only mild ptosis. Your surgeon only removes a small crescent of tissue above the areola before raising the nipple into a higher position.
This technique is rarely performed as women seeking remedies for moderate to severe ptosis are looking for a solution to the descension of the entire breast, not just the areola area.
2. The Benelli Breast Lift (periareolar incision)
The Benelli breast lift, also referred to as a “Doughnut Lift,” is a surgical technique commonly used for mild to moderate breast ptosis, typically corresponding to Grade I-II on the ptosis scale. During this procedure, the surgeon removes a circular section of tissue around the areola and then reattaches it to the surrounding breast tissue, lifting the breast.
It’s important to note that while the Benelli breast lift can be effective in achieving desired results, there are potential risks associated with nipple function and sensation. These risks should be carefully discussed with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. It’s crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who can provide appropriate guidance and help you make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances.
3. The Lollipop or LeJour Lift
The LeJour or ‘Lollipop Lift’ provides more lift than the Benelli, especially for those with moderate ptosis. Dr Craig removes a doughnut-shaped piece of tissue, similar to the Benelli lift. However, in addition to this, a straight incision is made down to the breast crease to provide more lift. This more modern method of performing the breast lift is Dr Craig’s preferred technique as it has a smaller scar, unlike the anchor lift (no horizontal scar under the breast).
4. The Anchor Breast Lift
The Anchor Breast Lift, also known as the ‘Robbins technique’ Breast Lift, is a surgical approach that involves a larger incision shaped like an anchor. This technique is commonly used in Australia and is considered the classical method for breast lift surgery.
During the Anchor Breast Lift, the incision is made around the areola. This extends vertically down the breast and continues horizontally along the inframammary fold, resembling an anchor shape. This extensive incision allows the surgeon to remove excess skin, reshape the breast tissue, and reposition the nipple and areola.
Which Breast Lift Technique is Right For You?
During a consultation with Dr Craig, he will carefully assess your individual needs and determine the degree of breast ptosis you have. Based on this evaluation, he will recommend the most suitable breast lift technique for you.
Dr Craig will thoroughly explain each technique’s potential outcomes and considerations. He will ensure you comprehensively understand the procedure, expected outcomes, and potential complications.
Dr Craig will tailor the approach to best address your unique situation by considering your specific goals, breast anatomy, and desired results. He will discuss the details of each technique, including the incision patterns, the extent of tissue removal or reshaping, and the resulting scars. This comprehensive consultation process allows you to make an informed decision and have confidence in the breast lift technique that will provide you with the desired outcome.

How is Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery Performed?
The decision to have surgery is extremely personal, and you’ll have to decide if the outcomes will achieve your goals and if the breast lift risks and potential complications are acceptable.
Dr Craig Rubinstein only operates in accredited hospitals, using board-certified anesthesiologists to ensure that patient safety, comfort and post-surgical pain management are always a priority.
Dr Rubinstein highly recommends that you stop smoking at least 4 weeks prior to surgery, as well as refrain from taking any aspirin products up to a week before surgery. Patients will not be able to consume food or drink after midnight on the evening prior to surgery.
The necessary incisions will be made, guided by measurements and markings that were previously meticulously mapped out by your surgeon, to lift and reshape the underlying breast tissue, reposition your nipple and areola and remove any excess skin.
Finally, your surgeon will layer sutures deep within the tissue to support your breasts and close the skin using more sutures.
Remember that results vary from patient to patient, and maintaining a high level of communication with your surgeon is key to understanding the possible outcomes of your procedure.
Dr Craig Rubinstein will generally recommend you spend 1-2 nights in the hospital, allowing you to rest and recover while having access to medical professionals and your surgeon as needed.
Comparison – Breast Lift (Mastopexy) with Implants vs Breast Lift (Mastopexy) without Implants
When considering breast lift (mastopexy) surgery, there are two options to address different concerns. A mastopexy procedure is recommended for women who are satisfied with their breast size and shape but wish to address breast ptosis. This procedure focuses on lifting and firming the breasts on the chest wall.
A mastopexy alone can help:
- Restore the nipples to a desired position on the breast
- Reposition the breasts on the chest wall
- Tighten the breast skin and underlying tissue
- Resize the areola if desired
However, if you are also concerned about lost breast volume, particularly in the upper pole area, a breast lift with implants, known as augmentation mastopexy, may be a more suitable option.
The breast lift with implants (augmentation mastopexy) procedure allows for the addition of a breast implant to increase breast volume and achieve upper pole fullness. In some cases, fat transfer can also be used to complement the lift.
The choice between these surgeries depends on factors such as existing breast tissue, skin health, elasticity, and your desired outcome in terms of size, shape, and position of the breasts.
To determine the most appropriate procedure for you, it is important to have a detailed consultation with Dr Craig Rubinstein, where he can assess your individual needs and goals and provide personalised recommendations based on your unique situation.
Recovery After Breast Lift without Implants Surgery
After your breast lift surgery, you will be given specific post-operative instructions to follow. It is important to follow these instructions to aid your recovery and surgical results.
Post-operative swelling, soreness and other associated discomfort may last about 6 weeks, but this can vary from patient to patient. Pain levels will also vary from patient to patient, and Dr Rubinstein will work with you to create an individualised pain management plan.
Visible bruising should begin to subside within two weeks.
When Can I Return to Work After a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
The timeline for returning to work after a breast lift (mastopexy) can vary depending on several factors, including the nature of your job and your individual healing process. In general, many patients can expect to return to work within 1-2 weeks following the procedure, but the physical demands of your job may influence this.
It is crucial to avoid rigorous activities for at least 3-4 weeks after the surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines on when you can safely resume exercising and engaging in strenuous activities, so it is important to follow their recommendations.
It’s essential to prioritise your recovery by avoiding heavy lifting or engaging in strenuous work until you are fully healed. Engaging in such activities prematurely can impact your pain levels, hinder healing, and prolong your overall recovery time. It’s best to consult your surgeon to determine the appropriate time frame for resuming normal activities based on your individual progress and healing.

Results After Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery
What Options are Available to Help Minimise Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Scars?
While it is true that all surgeries, including breast lift (mastopexy) procedures, result in scars, skilled surgeons like Dr Rubinstein take great care in minimising and placing scars strategically.
Dr Rubinstein and his team are meticulous in their approach to scar management. They employ advanced techniques such as scar treatment using specialised lasers and Healite II to help minimise the appearance of scars. These treatments are typically conducted during follow-up appointments. With proper care and treatment, scars can fade significantly over the first 12 months.
How Long Will a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Last?
The outcomes of a mastopexy procedure can differ among patients. When conducted by a highly experienced plastic surgeon, the results of a breast lift (mastopexy) may be long-lasting. However, it’s important to understand that the longevity of the results can be influenced by various factors, including pregnancy, childbirth, and fluctuations in weight.
For women who maintain a stable weight over time and take appropriate care of their breasts, the results of a breast lift (mastopexy) can endure for many years, even decades. It’s crucial to note that individual experiences may vary, and the effects of ageing and other lifestyle factors can impact the longevity of the results.
During your consultation, Dr Rubinstein will assess your unique circumstances and provide a personalised evaluation of the expected longevity of your breast lift (mastopexy) results. He will also offer guidance on how to maintain and optimise the outcomes over the long term.
Cost of a Breast Lift (mastopexy) without Implants
The cost of a breast lift (mastopexy) can vary based on a number of factors, including what you need to have performed, the surgeon you choose and which hospital you choose to have your operation.
It is important to do your research before deciding on a plastic surgeon for your chosen procedure. Further, revision surgery is costly and is not guaranteed to fix the issue you experienced with your initial surgery if you choose to explore cheaper surgical options. It is always important to pursue plastic surgery based on skill and previous experience.
Further Reading – Medical References
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons Breast lift (mastopexy)
- ISAPS Breast lift (mastopexy) December 2018 Breast Lift
- ASAPS Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Melbourne – Coco Ruby Plastic Surgeons
About Dr Craig Rubinstein
MED0001124843

Dr Craig Rubinstein FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) is an experienced Melbourne Specialist Plastic Surgeon for breast and abdominoplasty surgery.
Dr Rubinstein offers women personalised abdominoplasty surgery and all forms of cosmetic breast surgery.
BOOK A CONSULTATION (03) 8849 1400
Next Steps in Your Surgical Journey

Want more information about your Procedure?
- Visit the FAQs and read patient reviews to learn more about your intended procedure.
- For more information about pricing visit our cost page.
- You can also call our Reception from 9 to 5 pm Monday to Friday on (03) 8849 1400

About Your First Consultation
- Dr Rubinstein’s Consultation fee is $300.
- A referral from your GP or specialist is essential.
- A referral helps when claiming Medicare or Private Health Insurance coverage.
- Please contact reception at Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery to book your consultation.

What to Bring to Your Consultation
- You are more than welcome to bring a friend or relative to help discuss the information and your choices.
- Ensure you also take a lot of notes and thoroughly examine the documents provided.
Disclaimer
The content of this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is important to consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the information provided in this article. The author and publisher of this article do not guarantee the accuracy, applicability, or completeness of the content. The information presented in this article is at your own risk.
Read further information about surgical outcome variability on our Disclaimer page.