Auto Augmentation Mastopexy Surgery Guide

Mastopexy is a surgical procedure performed to correct breast ptosis. A standard mastopexy raises the breasts off the abdominal wall, but this often reduces breast volume and may result in a smaller cup size. Auto augmentation mastopexy is a specialised technique that repositions existing breast tissue to restore shape and projection while maintaining breast volume, without the use of implants.

What is Auto Augmentation Mastopexy?

Auto augmentation mastopexy is a procedure in which the patient’s own breast tissue is preserved and repositioned. Instead of discarding the lower pole breast tissue, it is elevated and reshaped to improve projection and upper pole fullness. The breast mound is reconstructed using natural tissue, providing an alternative to mastopexy with implants.

How Does Auto Augmentation Compare to Traditional Mastopexy?

In traditional mastopexy, excess lower pole tissue is typically removed in order to achieve lift. While this reshapes the breasts, it can reduce their overall size. In contrast:

• Auto augmentation preserves and repositions tissue instead of removing it
• Breast volume is generally maintained
• The breasts are lifted and reshaped with improved projection without a reduction in size

How Does Auto Augmentation Compare to Mastopexy with Implants?

Mastopexy can be performed with or without implants. Adding implants can increase breast volume, whereas auto augmentation relies solely on repositioning existing tissue.

• If adequate lower pole tissue exists, it can be used to enhance upper pole fullness
• Auto augmentation does not add extra volume but redistributes the patient’s own tissue
• The breast size usually remains similar, though shape, profile, and projection are improved

Possible Benefits of Auto Augmentation Mastopexy

Women undergoing this procedure may experience:

• Correction of breast ptosis with a more elevated position
• Improved forward projection of the nipple–areola complex
• Restoration of upper pole fullness
• Maintenance of existing breast size without prosthesis
• Reshaping of the breast mound into a more balanced profile

Who is a Candidate?

Auto augmentation mastopexy may be appropriate for women who have:

• Loss of upper pole fullness with excess lower pole tissue
• Downward-pointing areola
• Stable body weight
• No nicotine use, or willingness to cease prior to surgery
• Acceptance that surgery will produce scars
• Good overall health to undergo elective surgery
• A preference to maintain their current breast size while correcting ptosis

What Happens During the Surgery?

• The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital
• Duration is usually two to three hours
• The lower pole tissue is preserved and repositioned higher on the breast mound
• The nipple–areola complex is repositioned to a central location
• The breast is reshaped into a natural teardrop form
• Incisions are sutured and dressings applied
• While commonly a day procedure, some women may remain overnight in hospital

Recovery

• Most patients return home the same day
• Light activity and driving may resume after about one week
• Bruising and tenderness may persist for two weeks or longer
• Heavy lifting and exercise should be avoided for six weeks
• Swelling may take six months to a year to fully resolve
• Scars continue to mature and fade over 12 months or more

Risks and Complications

All surgery carries risks. Potential complications of auto augmentation mastopexy may include:

• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Haematoma (blood accumulation)
• Infection
• Necrosis of breast tissue
• Poor scarring (hypertrophic or keloid)
• Altered nipple sensation from nerve injury
• Breast asymmetry
• Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (rare, but potentially life-threatening)
• Possibility of revision surgery within 6–12 months

Auto Augmentation Mastopexy FAQ

Can auto augmentation be combined with other procedures?
Yes. In some cases, procedures such as suction-assisted lipectomy or arm reduction surgery can be combined, depending on the individual’s health and surgical plan.

Will there be scars?
Yes. All mastopexy procedures result in scarring. The extent and placement depend on the incision technique. Scars usually fade over time, but women with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scars should inform their surgeon.

Is auto augmentation mastopexy covered by health insurance?
This is generally considered an elective procedure. Most women fund the surgery themselves as health insurance rarely provides coverage.