Will I Get a Breast Lift with My Breast Reduction?

One of the most common questions patients ask during a consultation is: "Will I get a breast lift with my breast reduction?"

The short answer is yes. A breast reduction includes a breast lift as part of the procedure. In fact, most women are pleasantly surprised to learn that breast reduction surgery not only reduces breast size but also improves breast shape, projection, and position.

How Does a Breast Reduction Lift the Breasts?

Large, heavy breasts can gradually droop over time due to gravity. This is called breast sagging (or breast ptosis), where the breasts and nipples sit lower on the chest than they once did.

During a breast reduction, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to make the breasts smaller and lighter. The remaining breast tissue is then reshaped and lifted to a higher position on the chest, and the nipples are moved higher as well. As a result, a breast reduction not only reduces breast size but also provides a lifting effect, and a better breast shape.

Therefore, with a breast reducion, the breasts are not only smaller but also:

• Higher on the chest

• More proportionate to the body

• Better supported by a tighter skin envelope

For this reason, breast reduction surgery is technically a combination of a breast reduction and breast lift (mastopexy).

What Is the Difference Between a Breast Reduction and a Breast Lift?

A breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) and a breast lift (mastopexy) share many similarities, but the GOAL of the operation is different.

For Breast Reduction

A breast reduction aims to:

• Reduce the breast size and weight

• Improve symptoms such as neck, shoulder, and back pain

• Relieve bra strap grooving and skin irritation

• Improve comfort during exercise and daily activities

For Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift aims to:

• Raise droopy breasts

• Improve breast shape and projection

• Reposition the nipples

• Remove excess loose skin

However, a breast lift alone does not significantly reduce breast volume. In contrast, a breast reduction achieves both a reduction in size and a lifting effect.

How Much Will My Breasts be Lifted with a Breast Reduction?

The degree of lift varies depending on:

• Your breast size

• The amount of breast sagging pre-operatively

• Your skin quality and elasticity

• The amount of breast tissue being removed

Patients with significant breast droop often experience a dramatic improvement in breast position following surgery. During your consultation, Dr Law can discuss what degree of lifting is achievable based on your individual anatomy.

Will My Results Last?

Breast reduction results are long-lasting. However, the breasts will continue to age naturally over time.

Factors that may influence long-term results include:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• Significant weight fluctuations

• Ageing

• Changes in skin elasticity

Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive bras can help preserve your results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my breasts become large again after breast reduction?

Yes, the remaining breast tissue can enlarge due to weight gain, pregnancy, or hormonal changes. However, the tissue removed during surgery does not grow back.

Does breast reduction stop future breast growth?

Breast reduction removes existing excess tissue but cannot prevent future changes caused by hormones, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations.

Will my breasts sag again after breast reduction?

Some degree of ageing and skin relaxation can occur over time. Most patients still maintain a smaller and more lifted breast shape compared with before surgery.

Is breast reduction a permanent solution for neck and back pain?

For many women, breast reduction provides long-lasting relief from symptoms associated with excessively large breasts. Maintaining a stable weight can help preserve these benefits.

Dr Law’s Credentials

• AHPRA Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. MED 0001775113.

• FRACS (Plastic Surgery). Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

• MSc (Plastic Surgery). Master of Surgery (with Merit), University of Edinburgh.

• MSc (Res). Master of Surgical Science in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Oxford.

• MBBS(Hons), BSc(Med)Hons 1. Double degreem, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Bachelor of Science (Medicine) Honours.

Further Reading About Breast Reduction Surgery with Dr Jen Law:

• Read Dr Law’s Does Medicare Cover Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney, Australia? page

• Read Dr Law’s How To Get The Best Scars After Breast Reduction Surgery page

• Read Dr Law’s Are You Considering Breast Reduction Surgery after Ozempic & Mounjaro? page

• Read Dr Law’s Recovery After Breast Reduction Surgery: What to Expect Week by Week page

• Read Dr Law’s Ten FAQs About Breast Reduction Surgery page

• Read Dr Law’s Breast Reduction Information page

Next Steps if You’re Considering Breast Reduction Surgery in Sydney

If you’re considering breast reduction surgery in Sydney, or want expert guidance on whether you’re a suitable candidate and which technique may be best for you, the first step is to book a consultation with Dr Law, a qualified specialist plastic surgeon. She can assess your individual needs and recommend the safest and most effective approach tailored to you.

To learn more, you’re welcome to book a consultation with Dr Law at our Darlinghurst, St Leonards or Bankstown locations.

Dr. Jenaleen Law
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
MED000177511