When considering breast surgery, it can be overwhelming to decide which is the right procedure for you. While there are many factors to consider, let’s have a look at some of the key differences between a breast lift (also referred to as a mastopexy) and breast augmentation (or augmentation mammoplasty), as well as some of the main reasons why one or the other, or even a combination of the two, may be suitable for you.
Breast lift surgery is a procedure that is meant to help restore the shape, firmness and perkiness of breast tissue when the skin elasticity or tissue firmness may have been lost or changed due to pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or maturity of the tissue due to age and gravity. It can help reduce breast sagginess, create a more contoured breast shape, and improve the overall appearance if there is a significant difference in the size or shape of the breasts.
During the procedure, the surgeon will remove excess tissue, then sculpt and reshape the breasts, sometimes changing the positioning of the areolae in order to achieve your desired outcome. This surgery is not meant to change the overall size of your breasts significantly, although it is possible that removal of any sagging skin or tissue may cause a slight reduction.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure used to increase the overall size of the breasts. This surgery can help correct uneven or reduced breasts after pregnancy, breastfeeding, surgery or weight loss; reconstruct the breast region after various surgeries (though it is different from breast reconstruction), such as a masectomy; or simply give you more confidence if you have always wanted to achieve a fuller, curvier look.
The surgery can be done by placing implants under the breast tissue itself, or underneath the pectoral muscles located in the chest region. Alternatively, breast augmentation can also be done non-surgically by using a less invasive technique called fat transfer, which removes fat from one region of the body and then transfers it to the breasts by injection. This procedure works best for those with excess fat on their bodies, whereas breast implants can work well for anyone.
Now let’s discuss some of the most common reasons why you might want to consider a breast lift, breast augmentation, or both.
A breast lift can:
A breast augmentation can:
In some cases, it might make sense to combine the two procedures. Not only can this save recovery time, but there is also generally a cost-savings associated when opting for both surgeries. However, if you choose to have breast augmentation surgery, then later on decide you would like to have a breast lift, there is no issue with doing so later on.
It will be extremely important to consider what your personal goals are, then to assess what makes the most sense in order to achieve those goals. It is highly recommended to discuss any questions you might have with a medical professional who can help you define your goals, and assess your needs to help you determine what will work best for you physically, emotionally, and financially. It is especially important to find a surgeon who will be there to support and guide you through this exciting life-changing process through every step of the way so that you can feel confident in your decision.
Would you like to receive more one-on-one guidance from a reputable surgeon with years of experience as a double-board certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon? Schedule a consultation today with Marc J. Elkowitz, M.D., to have your questions thoroughly answered.
