Are your breasts smaller than you’d like? Do they hang a little lower than they used to?
Life happens, and your body will change. Luckily, there are ways to reverse (some) of those changes to restore your self-confidence and body image. If you’re considering breast enhancement, it’s important to understand the differences between the two most popular procedures: breast lift vs. implant.
In this blog, we will explore what each procedure entails, who would be the best candidate for each, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Let’s get into it.
Breast Lift vs. Implant
Breast Lift
As we age, our breasts may lose volume and begin to droop due to factors such as aging, gravity, pregnancy, or weight loss. A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape the volume of your breasts, without increasing cup size.
When it comes to a breast lift vs. implant, the results are very different. A breast lift procedure aims to restore a more youthful appearance by repositioning the breasts and removing excess skin, whereas an augmentation with implants aims to increase volume of the breast.
Who is a good candidate for a breast lift?
A breast lift is suitable for women who experience sagging or drooping breasts, which may be caused by factors such as breastfeeding, age, or weight loss. If you are looking to improve the position and shape of your breasts without necessarily increasing their size, a breast lift may be the right choice for you.
The Procedure: Assessing Goals and Incision Types
Before undergoing a breast lift, a professional plastic surgeon will assess your goals, breast size, amount of breast tissue, and skin laxity to determine the best treatment plan for you. There are three common incision types to consider at Plastic Surgical Associates: periareolar, inverted-T, and lollipop.
- Periareolar Incision: This incision is made around the areola and is suitable for mild breast sagging.
- Inverted-T Incision: Also known as the full anchor incision, this technique involves three incisions – around the areola, vertically from the areola to the breast crease, and along the fold of the breast. It is used for moderate to severe sagging.
- Lollipop Incision: Similar to the inverted-T incision, the lollipop technique involves two incisions, creating a shape similar to a lollipop. This is utilized for moderate breast sagging.
Recovery and Results:
Following a breast lift, full recovery may take several weeks. However, most individuals can return to work and regular activities within a week or two after the procedure. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and achieve the desired results of a more youthful breast contour.
Check out our full gallery of breast lift before and after images.
Breast Augmentation with Implants
When it comes to a breast lift vs. implant, the biggest difference is in the result. While breast lifts can help shape and perk your natural breasts, breast augmentation is a procedure to increase the size and fullness of the breasts by adding implants. It is an excellent option for women with small breasts who desire a more balanced figure or are unsatisfied with their breast size.
Who is a good candidate for breast implants?
If you have small breasts and wish to enhance their size and shape, breast augmentation with implants may be the right choice. It can help you achieve the fuller, more proportionate breasts you desire, boosting your self-confidence and overall body image.
The Procedure: Assessing Goals and Implant Options
Similar to a breast lift, a professional plastic surgeon will assess your goals, breast size, amount of breast tissue, and skin laxity to determine the most suitable approach for you. There are three common incision types for breast augmentation: inframammary (under the fold of the breast), trans-axillary (in the armpit), and periareolar (around the nipple).
When it comes to implant options, you will have the choice between silicone and saline implants. The decision will depend on factors such as your breast tissue and personal preference. Your surgeon will guide you in selecting the most appropriate type for your desired outcome – take a closer look at our breast augmentation gallery here.
Recovery and Results:
Recovery after breast augmentation is similar to that of a breast lift. Full recovery may take several weeks, but most individuals can resume work and regular activities within one to two weeks. Following the recovery period, you will enjoy the fuller and more balanced breasts you desired, enhancing your overall appearance and self-esteem.
Breast Lift vs. Implant: Which Is Right for You?
Whether you are seeking to restore the shape and position of your breasts with a breast lift or add volume and fullness with breast implants, it’s essential to consult with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable procedure for you: breast lift vs. implant.
At Plastic Surgical Associates, you have a third option to consider: Perkylift. Instead of cutting out skin, this scar-less procedure shrinks the soft tissue and overlying skin using microneedling, while still lifting the breasts Because this method is capable of shrinking the skin 33%, it’s best for mild to moderate cases, as seen in our PerkyLift gallery.
Consider scheduling a breast augmentation in Fort Collins to discuss your goals and explore your options further. Remember, the decision to enhance your breasts is personal, and prioritizing your self-confidence and well-being is key.
