Breast Lift without Implants in Sydney – Mastopexy with Dr Kernohan
Breast lift surgery, also known medically as mastopexy, is a breast procedure that repositions breast tissue and the nipple-areola complex. It may be considered by women whose breast position has changed after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, ageing, or natural breast development.
Dr Michael Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Sydney. During consultation, he assesses breast position, skin quality, nipple location, breast volume, medical history and patient concerns before discussing whether breast lift surgery may be suitable.
- Breast lift surgery addresses breast position and excess skin
- Mastopexy is the medical term for breast lift surgery
- Implants are not always required
- Suitability can only be assessed during consultation
Breast Lift Surgery At A Glance
Breast lift surgery is performed to reposition breast tissue and the nipple-areola complex. It may be performed without implants when the patient has enough existing breast tissue and does not want additional volume.
The surgical plan varies between patients. Dr Michael Kernohan discusses incision options, scars, recovery, risks and aftercare during consultation in Sydney.
- Procedure name: Breast Lift
- Medical name: Mastopexy
- Purpose: Repositions breast tissue and the nipple-areola complex
- Implants: Not always required; suitability depends on anatomy and goals
- Anaesthetic: Usually performed under general anaesthetic
- Hospital stay: Day surgery or overnight stay may be discussed
- Scars: Around the areola, vertically down the breast, and sometimes along the breast crease
- Recovery: Varies depending on the surgical plan, healing, work duties and general health
- Consultation: Required before suitability can be assessed
- Surgeon: Dr Michael Kernohan, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
- Location: Sydney
- Follow-up: Post-operative appointments are used to monitor healing and recovery
What Is A Breast Lift, And What Does It Actually Do?
A breast lift removes excess skin, repositions breast tissue and moves the nipple-areola complex to a different position on the breast. The procedure is used to address breast ptosis, which refers to descent of the breast tissue and nipple position.
A breast lift does not add breast volume in the same way as an implant. It also does not stop future changes caused by ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes or skin quality.
- Removes excess breast skin
- Repositions the nipple and areola
- Reshapes existing breast tissue
- May reduce areola size if suitable
What Are The Possible Benefits Of Having A Breast Lift?
The possible benefits of breast lift surgery relate to breast position, nipple location and excess skin. For some patients, surgery may help reposition the nipple and adjust the way breast tissue sits on the chest.
Outcomes vary between patients. Breast lift surgery cannot guarantee a specific breast shape, scar appearance, cup size or long-term breast position.
- Repositions the nipple and areola
- Removes excess breast skin
- Adjusts breast shape and position
- May address some breast asymmetry
Do I Need A Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Or Breast Implants?
A breast lift, breast reduction and breast implants address different concerns. A breast lift mainly addresses breast position and excess skin, while a breast reduction reduces breast size and weight.
Breast implants may be discussed when additional volume is requested and clinically suitable. Some patients may need a combination approach, depending on breast anatomy and personal priorities.
- Breast lift: addresses breast position and excess skin
- Breast reduction: reduces breast size and weight
- Breast implants: add volume
- A consultation helps determine which option may be suitable
Who Is Dr Michael Kernohan, And Why Would I See Him For Breast Lift Surgery?
Dr Michael Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Sydney. He consults with patients considering breast lift surgery, breast reduction, breast implant removal and related breast procedures.
During consultation, Dr Kernohan reviews medical history, breast anatomy, nipple position, skin quality, breast volume and asymmetry. He also explains surgical options, limitations, risks, recovery and aftercare.
- Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
- Based in Sydney
- Provides individual breast assessment
- Discusses risks, scars, recovery and follow-up care
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What Happens During My Breast Lift Consultation?
During consultation, Dr Michael Kernohan will ask about medical history, previous operations, medications, allergies, smoking or vaping, pregnancy history, breastfeeding history and weight stability. These details can affect surgical planning and recovery.
A breast assessment is usually required. This may include assessment of breast size, nipple location, skin quality, breast fold position, breast volume and asymmetry.
- Review of medical history and medications
- Assessment of breast position and skin quality
- Discussion of incision options and scars
- Explanation of risks, recovery and aftercare
What Types Of Breast Lift Surgery Might Be Suitable For Me?

There are different types of breast lift surgery. The most suitable approach depends on the degree of breast ptosis, breast size, nipple position, skin quality and the amount of excess skin.
Dr Michael Kernohan will discuss which incision pattern may be appropriate during consultation. Some patients require a smaller incision pattern, while others need a more extensive approach.
- Periareolar breast lift
- Vertical or lollipop breast lift
- Anchor or inverted-T breast lift
- Breast lift with or without implants
Would I Need A Periareolar Breast Lift?
A periareolar breast lift uses an incision around the areola. This approach is usually only suitable for selected patients with mild breast ptosis and a smaller amount of excess skin.
This technique has limitations. It may not be appropriate for patients with moderate or significant ptosis, larger breasts, heavier breast tissue or reduced skin quality.
- May suit mild breast ptosis
- Uses an incision around the areola
- Allows limited nipple repositioning
- May be combined with areola size adjustment
Would I Need A Vertical Or Lollipop Breast Lift?
A vertical breast lift is sometimes called a lollipop breast lift because of the scar pattern. It usually involves an incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease.
This technique may be used when more nipple repositioning and skin removal are needed than a periareolar approach can provide. It is often discussed for mild to moderate breast ptosis.
- Uses an incision around the areola
- Includes a vertical scar below the areola
- Allows more skin removal than a periareolar lift
- May suit selected patients with moderate ptosis
Would I Need An Anchor Or Inverted-T Breast Lift?
An anchor breast lift is also called an inverted-T breast lift. It usually involves an incision around the areola, a vertical incision down the lower breast and an incision along the breast crease.
This approach may be considered when there is more significant breast ptosis, excess skin or heavier breast tissue. It allows more skin removal and breast reshaping than smaller incision patterns.
- Used for more significant breast ptosis
- Allows greater skin removal
- Includes a longer scar pattern
- May be suitable for heavier breast tissue
Can I Have A Breast Lift Without Implants?
Some patients can have a breast lift without implants. This approach uses the patient’s existing breast tissue and removes excess skin without adding implant volume.
A breast lift without implants may suit patients whose main concern is breast position rather than breast volume. Patients seeking additional volume may need to discuss other options during consultation.
- Uses existing breast tissue
- Does not add implant volume
- May suit patients with enough breast tissue
- May not suit patients wanting additional fullness
Am I A Good Candidate For A Breast Lift?
You may be a candidate for breast lift surgery if your breast position has changed and you are medically suitable for surgery. Suitability depends on anatomy, health history, expectations, smoking status and other individual factors.
Dr Michael Kernohan will assess whether breast lift surgery is appropriate for you. He may also discuss whether breast reduction, breast lift with implants or another breast surgery approach is more suitable.
- Nipples sit lower than they used to
- Nipple position is near or below the breast fold
- There is excess breast skin
- Weight is stable and recovery planning is realistic
When Might A Breast Lift Not Be Suitable For Me?
Breast lift surgery is not suitable for everyone. Some patients may be advised to delay surgery, consider another procedure or avoid surgery depending on health, lifestyle, anatomy or expectations.
Dr Michael Kernohan may recommend delaying surgery if certain factors increase the risk of complications or may affect the longer-term outcome. This is discussed individually during consultation.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are planning pregnancy soon
- Your weight is changing significantly
- You smoke or vape and cannot stop around surgery
How Is A Breast Lift Performed?
Breast lift surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic. The incision pattern is planned before surgery and depends on breast size, nipple position, skin quality and the amount of excess skin.
During surgery, excess skin is removed and breast tissue is repositioned. The nipple and areola are moved to a different position while usually remaining attached to underlying tissue.
- General anaesthetic is usually used
- Incisions are made according to the surgical plan
- Excess skin is removed
- Breast tissue and nipple position are adjusted
Breast Lift Before And After Photos


Disclaimer: All surgical or invasive procedures come with inherent risks, and results can vary widely between individuals due to factors like lifestyle, anatomy, overall health, weight, and nutrition. We encourage you to conduct thorough research and consider seeking a second opinion from a qualified healthcare provider.
Before and after photos may be discussed during consultation where appropriate. These images should be viewed as examples only and cannot predict an individual outcome.
Every patient has different breast anatomy, skin quality, healing patterns, scar formation and surgical planning. Dr Michael Kernohan can explain how to view clinical images in a balanced way.
- Photos are examples only
- Individual outcomes vary
- Scarring differs between patients
- Images cannot guarantee a result
How Do I Request A Breast Lift Consultation In Sydney?
Patients who want to discuss breast lift surgery can contact Dr Michael Kernohan’s rooms to request a consultation. The appointment allows time to discuss medical history, concerns, suitability, surgical options, risks and recovery.
The booking process may vary depending on referral requirements and appointment availability. The practice team can explain what information may be needed before your appointment.
- Provide your name and contact details
- Confirm your procedure of interest
- Bring relevant medical information
- Prepare questions about surgery and recovery
Request an Appointment
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What Should I Expect During Breast Lift Recovery?
Recovery after breast lift surgery varies between patients. Some people need more time than others depending on the extent of surgery, work type, general health, pain levels and wound healing.
After surgery, patients usually have dressings and may be asked to wear a surgical support bra. Swelling, bruising, discomfort and temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation can occur.
- Swelling and bruising are expected
- Dressings are usually applied
- A support bra may be recommended
- Follow-up appointments are important
How Long Does Breast Lift Recovery Take?
Breast lift recovery happens in stages. Some patients return to light daily activities earlier than others, but heavier activity, upper body exercise and lifting may need to be restricted for longer.
Dr Michael Kernohan will provide recovery instructions based on the surgical plan and healing progress. Patients should follow personalised advice rather than relying on general timeframes alone.
- Recovery varies between patients
- Light activity may resume before heavier activity
- Wound healing needs to be monitored
- Medical clearance is needed before strenuous exercise
Download Dr Michael Kernohan’s Cosmetic Breast Surgery Guide

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What Can I Expect 1 Day After Breast Lift Surgery?
One day after breast lift surgery, most patients are resting either at home or in hospital, depending on the surgical plan. Dressings are usually in place, and a support garment may be used.
You will need another adult to drive you home if you are discharged on the day of surgery. You may also need help at home with meals, children, pets and daily tasks.
- Rest is usually required
- Swelling and bruising may be present
- Arm movement may be limited
- Medication should be taken as directed
What Can I Expect 7 Days After Breast Lift Surgery?
Seven days after breast lift surgery, swelling and bruising are still expected. Some patients feel ready for gentle daily tasks, while others need more time.
Follow-up care is important during this stage. Dr Michael Kernohan or his team may review wounds, dressings, symptoms and any concerns.
- Swelling and bruising may continue
- Tiredness can still occur
- Heavy lifting should be avoided
- Follow-up appointments should be attended
What Can I Expect 30 Days After Breast Lift Surgery?
Thirty days after breast lift surgery, many patients have returned to some usual routines. This varies depending on work type, healing, discomfort and medical advice.
Swelling may still be present, and scars are still healing. Patients should avoid judging the final outcome too early, as breast position and scar appearance continue to change.
- Some normal routines may resume
- Scars may still appear red or firm
- Swelling may continue to settle
- Activity should increase only as advised
What Can I Expect 60 Days After Breast Lift Surgery?
Sixty days after breast lift surgery, swelling may continue to reduce and comfort may continue to improve. Scars are still maturing and may take many months to settle.
Some patients may be cleared for more activity by this stage, while others may need more time. Dr Michael Kernohan will provide advice based on healing and the type of surgery performed.
- Breast position may appear more settled
- Scars continue to mature
- Sensation changes may still be present
- Activity may progress if medically cleared
How Much Does A Breast Lift Cost In Sydney?
The cost of breast lift surgery in Sydney varies. It depends on the surgical plan, hospital, anaesthetist, procedure time, aftercare and whether another procedure is performed at the same time.
A personalised estimate can only be provided after consultation. Fees should not be the only factor when considering surgery, as training, hospital setting, risk discussion and aftercare are also important.
- Procedure complexity can affect fees
- Hospital fees may vary
- Anaesthetist fees are usually separate
- A personalised estimate is provided after consultation
What Should I Know Before Deciding On Breast Lift Surgery?
Before deciding on breast lift surgery, it is important to understand the procedure, scars, risks, recovery and limitations. Surgery should be considered carefully with enough time to review the information provided.
Dr Michael Kernohan will discuss whether breast lift surgery is appropriate for you and whether other options should be considered. Patients should use consultation time to ask questions and clarify concerns.
- Ask where the scars may be
- Ask what risks apply to your situation
- Discuss future pregnancy plans
- Consider time away from work and exercise
Will I Have Scars After A Breast Lift?
Yes. Breast lift surgery leaves scars. The location and length of scars depend on the incision pattern used and the amount of skin that needs to be removed.
Scar appearance varies between patients. Some scars settle over time, while others can become thickened, raised, stretched or more visible.
- Scars may sit around the areola
- Scars may extend vertically down the breast
- Scars may sit along the breast crease
- Scar maturation can take many months
Can Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, Or Weight Changes Affect My Breast Lift Result?
Yes. Future pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight changes can affect breast size, breast position and skin quality. These changes can occur even after breast lift surgery.
Patients who are planning pregnancy soon may be advised to delay surgery. This is because pregnancy and breastfeeding can change breast tissue and may affect the longer-term outcome.
- Pregnancy may change breast size and position
- Breastfeeding may affect breast tissue
- Weight changes may alter breast shape
- Ageing continues after surgery
What Are The Risks And Complications Of A Breast Lift?
All surgery has risks. Breast lift surgery risks vary depending on health, anatomy, the extent of surgery, smoking status, wound healing and other individual factors.
Dr Michael Kernohan will discuss risks during consultation. Patients should understand possible complications before deciding whether to proceed with surgery.
- Bleeding, infection or delayed wound healing
- Wound separation or fluid collection
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Scarring, asymmetry or need for revision surgery

Breast Lift Surgery FAQs
Why Do Patients In Sydney See Dr Michael Kernohan For Breast Lift Surgery?
Patients in Sydney may see Dr Michael Kernohan to discuss whether breast lift surgery is appropriate for their anatomy, health history and concerns. The consultation process includes assessment, explanation of options and discussion of risks and recovery.
Dr Kernohan is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon. His role is to provide individual medical assessment and explain the procedure in a clear and balanced way so patients can make an informed decision.
- Individual breast assessment
- Discussion of breast lift with or without implants
- Explanation of incision options and scars
- Review of risks, recovery and follow-up care
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How Do I Book A Breast Lift Consultation With Dr Michael Kernohan?
To book a consultation, patients can contact Dr Michael Kernohan’s rooms and request an appointment to discuss breast lift surgery. The practice team can explain the appointment process and what information may be needed.
A consultation does not mean surgery is automatically suitable. It is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand your options and receive individual advice based on your health and anatomy.
- Contact Dr Michael Kernohan’s rooms
- Request a Breast Lift consultation
- Bring relevant medical information
- Prepare questions about surgery, scars and recovery
Further Reading
- Read Dr Michael Kernohan’s Procedure Page on Breast Lift with Implants
- Read Dr Michael Kernohan’s Procedure Page on Breast Implant Removal Sydney NSW
- Read Dr Michael Kernohan’s Procedure Page on Breast Asymmetry Correction NSW
- Read Dr Michael Kernohan’s Blog on What Is the Difference between Breast Reduction and Breast Lift
- Read Dr Michael Kernohan’s Procedure Page on Breast Augmentation Sydney


