Breast Augmentation or Lift or Both: Which is Right for You?

Many women are unsatisfied with the appearance, shape, or lift of their breasts. As we age, the tissue loses elasticity and the breasts droop downwards. Or in many other cases, larger breasts or genetics can cause premature sagging in younger women. Weight loss, gain, pregnancy, and breast feeding can all also dramatically affect the appearance of the breasts. A breast lift is one procedure that can help improve the elevation and overall appearance of the chest. However, breast augmentation, or a combination including a lift are also commonly recommended procedures that can help reverse sagging. So which of these surgeries is right for you? 

Augmentation Only

For women with mild sagging, also sometimes referred to by medical professionals as ptosis, and smaller breasts wishing to enlarge their bust, a breast augmentation only is often preferable to a breast lift, especially in younger patients. There are more options for incision placement, such as through the underarms or even navel, to further minimize visible scarring. The implants provide a small form of breast lift that will last for many years and appears quite natural. Nipple placement may be necessary if sagging is more severe. Different types of implants and sizes can greatly change results, so review your options carefully. 

Breast Lift Only

A breast lift procedure is ideal for women with larger breasts who wish for no increase in size and are experiencing a significant amount of sagging. The procedure helps raise the breasts to a higher, more pleasing position while removing excess skin. Many times the nipple will be repositioned and the areola might be reduced to increase the perky appearance. There are different incision methods depending on the amount of lift desired and the individual anatomy. The scarring may be quite noticeable while other methods may produce incision marks that are much easier to camouflage but with less dramatic results. The results of a breast lift can last for many years, but the skin is still susceptible to normal aging. With time, the breasts will gradually sag again. This procedure is suitable for women with fuller sized breasts. 

Combination 

A combination of breast augmentation procedures is often the best choice for women with significant sagging due to age or genetics. They often have fairly full breast tissue at the top or have experienced a decrease in breast size following pregnancy or breast feeding. Weight loss and the subsequent effect on the breasts is another popular reason to undergo a combo procedure. Smaller implants may be used if only a mild size increase is desired. The benefits of undergoing two procedures at once is recommended, as this entails fewer risks and shorter recovery time in comparison to choosing to undergo the procedures separately. 

Which procedure is right for you will largely depend on your individual goals and body type. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to learn more about your options and which pathway might be the best for your situation. There are many different methods and techniques that are currently being used, so begin your research early.