If you’re thinking about having your breast implants taken out, you might be wondering if a breast lift (mastopexy) is necessary after implant removal.
Dr Samuel Yang, Plastic & Reconstructive surgeon finds that this decision often depends on patient preferences.
Before we discuss the question in greater detail, we’ll briefly explain the type of procedures Dr Yang can perform which involve a lift after implants are removed.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) and Implant Removal Qld
There are two types of procedures where a breast lift is performed after removal:
- Breast lift (Mastopexy)
During a breast lift (mastopexy), a woman’s implants are removed entirely before the tissue is tightened.
- Breast Implant Revision and Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
During this procedure the implants are removed, before new implants are inserted and a breast lift (mastopexy) is performed.
Is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Necessary After Implant Removal?
Dr Samuel Yang, Plastic & Reconstructive surgeon finds that breast lifts and having them performed after implants have been removed is oftentimes a very personal choice and partly dependent on a patient’s own preferences.
- The elasticity of skin can play a part in the decision for many women. For example, if their skin has stretched, the patient may opt for a breast lift (mastopexy).
- The position of the nipple should be at the level of, or above the level of the inframammary fold (where the lower pole of the breast attaches to the chest wall skin) junction between breast and chest. Some women will choose to have a breast lift if their nipple sits below the fold.
- We also find other women who have a waterfall appearance (where it looks like the breast is water falling off the implant) decide to go ahead with a lifting procedure.
When Breast Lifts (Mastopexies) Won’t Be Performed
Breast lifts (mastoepxies) won’t be performed if they’re not required or the patient doesn’t want to have a lift carried out.
We find they are less likely in younger patients whose tissue is likely to rebound after explant surgery:
- If the quality of their tissue is good,
- If they have good elasticity,
- If they haven’t had children,
- If their breasts have not stretched.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Scars
A breast lift (mastopexy) does result in scars on the front of the breast.
They will fade over time but everyone’s wounds will heal differently.
Is a breast lift (mastopexy) necessary after implant removal?
To discuss the best option for your situation, please arrange to visit Dr Yang for a consultation.

Dr Samuel Yang is an experienced plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon based in Brisbane.
A fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a member of both the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Australian Medical Association, Dr Yang has been practising in both the private and public systems since 2013.
While the Queensland-trained surgeon can help with all plastic surgery needs, he has special interest in abdominoplasty, skin cancer and melanoma, breast surgery, face lifts and blepharoplasty.
Dr Yang aims to help his patients pick the best surgical option based on the desired result, and ensures they are comfortable and informed before making any commitment.
For more information or to book a consultation, please contact our friendly team on (07) 3257 7950 today or enquire online here.