While breast lifts and breast augmentation both aim to improve the appearance of your bustline, they are two different surgical procedures. The primary goal of a breast lift, or mastopexy, is to lift the breasts into a higher, more flattering position. This may involve removing skin and tissue and repositioning your nipples.
Breast augmentation is designed to increase the size of your breasts while enhancing their shape. Silicone or saline implants may be used to add volume to the breasts and make them appear rounder. Some breast augmentations are performed with fat transfer, using the patient’s own fatty tissue to add volume to the breasts.
There are some important factors that can determine which breast procedure is right for you:
Size and Volume
When deciding between a breast lift or augmentation, one of the determining factors is size. If your main concern is the volume of your breasts, augmentation is the better option. The main goal of breast augmentation is to increase the size and volume of the breasts.
A breast lift will only raise breast position and will not add any volume. Patients who simply want a larger cup size should seek augmentation surgery.
Sagging or Drooping
Some women struggle with sagging or drooping breasts. When collagen decreases in the skin, it can lead the breasts to drop downward. Women who have given birth may also struggle with drooping due to the weight fluctuations that occur during pregnancy.
If your main concern is sagging or drooping, a breast lift is the better choice for you. Breast lift surgery involves removing excess skin and tissue while lifting the breast into a higher position on the chest.
Shape
Shape is another factor that can determine which procedure is right for you. Both breast lifts and augmentation can address issues with shape but in different ways. If you’re concerned that your breasts appear elongated or sagging in shape, a lift can place them higher and create a more stable shape.
If your breasts appear flat and you desire a rounder appearance, breast augmentation is often the better choice. Implants or fat transfer can add volume to the breasts and create a fuller appearance.
Performing Breast Lift and Augmentation Together
Some patients desire a complete breast transformation. They want to improve the size and shape of their breasts while also lifting them. For these clients, a breast lift and augmentation can be performed together. The surgeon will reposition the breasts in a higher placement and then add volume through implants or fat transfer.
Since a breast lift with augmentation is a more extensive procedure than performing either surgery on its own, the patient’s health is an important factor. Patients should be in good overall health in order to have this procedure, as it calls for more time under anesthesia and a longer recovery.
Consulting with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
If you’d like to enhance the appearance of your breasts, Sood Center offers various breast procedures. Dr. Sood is a board-certified plastic surgeon who performs breast lifts and breast augmentation. Call us today to schedule your breast surgery consultation.
