Let’s Get This Off Our Chest: Breaking Down Breast Lift vs Breast Augmentation

There are a number of reasons why women might be unhappy with the appearance of their breasts. For some women, the underlying issue is size. They simply wish their breasts could be larger and fill out their cup better. For other women, the issue has more to do with shape. Perhaps their breasts have grown a bit saggy, or the nipple hangs too low. Of course, for some women, it is a combination of these factors that make them long for breast enhancement.

Depending on your aesthetic goals and expectations, you may be a good candidate for a breast lift, breast augmentation, or even a combination of the two. A good starting point is to learn more about breast lift vs breast augmentation, including what each procedure does to enhance your curves.

What is a Breast Lift?

Before deciding between a breast lift versus implants, be sure you know the kinds of issues each procedure can address.

The breast lift is primarily designed to improve the shape or firmness of your breasts. Many women find that their breasts begin to “droop” or to sag over time, whether due to lost volume or lost skin elasticity. This process can be expedited by pregnancy and breastfeeding, by significant weight loss, or simply by getting older.

During a breast lift, your surgeon will not necessarily add any volume but will reshape your breast tissue, pulling it tight and providing you with perkier-looking breasts. Additionally, a breast lift procedure may be used to address problems such as a drooping or misaligned nipple. A breast lift can even be used to correct issues such as areola enlargement.

So, while a breast lift will not technically make your breasts larger, it will make them appear more youthful and shapelier.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is primarily concerned with adding volume. This is the procedure to choose if you simply want larger breasts, wish to achieve a particular cup size, or want to fill out your bikini top a bit better.

There are a number of options for breast augmentation, the most common of which is breast implants. Saline and silicone implants can provide additional volume, replicating the feel of human skin and tissue.

Combining Both Procedures

Of course, many patients decide not to choose between a breast augmentation vs lift, instead have both operations done at the same time. By combining procedures, you can add volume to your breasts while also ensuring the nipple and areola are correctly positioned, and that the breasts look firm and perky overall.

Combining the two procedures not only helps you achieve your aesthetic goals but also brings some practical benefits. When you have the two procedures done at the same time, your surgeon can minimize the number of incisions required. Combining procedures also means you only need one round of anesthesia. You only have to go through one recovery. And you only have to arrange for help around the house (including assistance looking after your children) once.

Additional Options for Breast Enhancement

It may also be worth noting that for some women the issue isn’t that their breasts are too small, but rather that their breasts are too large. If that’s your concern, you may be a good candidate for a breast reduction procedure, which can help you go down a cup size or two. We often recommend breast reduction for women who deal with chronic neck and back pain, or for women who have a difficult time finding clothing that fits them properly.

Keep in mind that breast reduction can also be paired with a breast lift, helping you achieve exactly the cosmetic results you’re looking for.

Breast Lift vs Breast Augmentation: How to Decide?

How should you choose which kind of breast procedure is right for you?

The question largely boils down to your reasons for being unhappy with your breasts. Remember that a breast lift will alter the position of your breasts but will not add to your bust size. By contrast, breast augmentation will increase your breast volume, but it will not correct drooping breasts. So, the procedure you choose should be informed first and foremost by the issues you’re hoping to fix.

If you are unsure about which procedure to choose, you may be a good candidate to have a combined procedure. By having a breast lift and breast augmentation done at the same time, you can achieve greater upper breast fullness, reposition sagging breasts, and improve the appearance of your nipples and areolas.

Scheduling a Consultation

No matter where you are in your decision-making process, one smart way to move forward is by scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

There are a couple of reasons why consultation is important. For one, it provides your surgeon with a chance to review your medical history and verify that you are qualified for a safe, successful procedure. Keep in mind that breast surgeries are widely accessible to most women who want them, but it’s still wise to ensure you are not at high risk for surgical complications.

Additionally, a consultation gives you a chance to share your personal needs and goals, and to collaborate with your surgeon to develop the right treatment plan. For augmentations, your surgeon can even use imaging equipment to help you “try on” different breasts, allowing you to feel fully confident about the procedure(s) you choose.

Get More Information from Charlotte Plastic Surgery

Ready to learn more about getting a breast lift vs augmentation? The Charlotte Plastic Surgery team has decades of experience helping women achieve their aesthetic goals. Our surgeons are happy to answer your questions or to help you determine the treatment plan that’s right for you.

To schedule a consultation with us, contact Charlotte Plastic Surgery today.