Choosing Between Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift Surgery
Making decisions about your body can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to breast enhancement options like a breast lift or implants. Whether you’re looking to regain a youthful shape, restore volume lost after weight changes or pregnancy, or simply enhance your natural curves, becoming familiar with the differences between these procedures is important to finding the right fit for you.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna, can help you better understand these options to achieve the results you desire. With her personalised approach, Anca will assess your unique needs and discuss which procedure best suits your goals.
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Overview of Breast Lift and Implants
Breast enhancement procedures come in various forms, with breast lifts and implants being among the most popular choices. A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, focuses on raising and reshaping sagging breasts. It addresses issues like drooping or loss of firmness, primarily by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue.
On the other hand, breast implants involve inserting silicone or saline implants to increase breast size or restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy. Implants can also be used in combination with a breast lift to achieve both lift and enhanced volume.
Common Techniques Used in Breast Lifts
There are many different techniques used in breast lifts, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient:
- Anchor Lift: Involves an incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the breast crease. This method is suitable for significant sagging.
- Donut Lift: Uses a circular incision around the areola, ideal for minor sagging.
- Lollipop Lift: Combines a circular incision around the areola with a vertical incision, suitable for moderate sagging.
- Circumvertical Lift: Involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision, ideal for moderate sagging.
Each technique aims to reposition the nipple and tighten the breast tissue, resulting in lifted and more youthful breasts.
Types of Breast Implants
Breast implants are prosthetic devices used to enhance breast size or restore volume. They come in different types, each offering unique benefits:
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. They can be adjusted in size during surgery, allowing for a customised fit. Saline implants are known for their safety, as the body can naturally absorb saline in case of rupture. They offer a firmer feel compared to silicone implants.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, which feels more like natural breast tissue. They are available in various shapes and sizes, providing a more natural look and feel. Silicone implants are less likely to wrinkle and maintain their shape better than saline implants.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed either above the pectoral muscle (subglandular placement) or under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement). The placement depends on factors like your anatomy, desired outcome, and Anca’s recommendation. Submuscular placement often results in a more natural appearance and reduces the risk of implant visibility.
Download the Breast Augmentation Guide
The Breast Lift Procedure – What to Expect
The breast lift procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Anaesthesia: Administered to ensure comfort during surgery.
- Incisions: Made according to the chosen technique.
- Reshaping: Excess skin removed, and breast tissue lifted.
- Nipple Adjustment: Repositioned to a higher, more natural location.
- Closure: Incisions closed with sutures, and the breasts are supported with bandages or a surgical bra.
Anaesthesia and Surgical Techniques
Breast lift is usually performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you are asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. The specific surgical technique depends on the degree of sagging and desired outcome.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
After the surgery, you will need to rest and follow Anca’s aftercare instructions. This includes wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. Swelling and discomfort are common but can be managed with prescribed medications.
Breast Implants Procedure – What to Expect
The breast implant procedure generally involves the following steps:
- Anaesthesia: Administered to ensure comfort during surgery.
- Incisions: Made in inconspicuous areas such as under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit.
- Pocket Creation: Space created for the implant, either above or below the muscle.
- Implant Insertion: Placing the chosen implant type into the pocket.
- Closure: Incisions closed with sutures, and the breasts supported with bandages or a surgical bra.
Download the Breast Uplift Guide
Combining Breast Lift and Implants
Combining a breast lift with implants can address both sagging and volume loss simultaneously. This approach provides lifted, fuller breasts, offering a more comprehensive enhancement. It is ideal for you if you seek significant changes in both shape and size.
Considerations and Potential Risks
While combining procedures can offer enhanced results, it also involves longer surgery times and potentially more extensive recovery periods. Discuss the benefits and risks with your surgeon to ensure this combined approach aligns with your health and aesthetic goals.
Key Differences Between Breast Lift and Implants
Before deciding which path to take, it’s helpful to compare the main features of a breast lift and breast implants. The table below highlights the main differences between these two procedures, making it easier for you to determine which option best suits your needs and goals.
| Aspect | Breast Lift (Mastopexy) | Breast Implants (Augmentation) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Raises and reshapes sagging breasts | Increases breast size and restores lost volume |
| Procedure Focus | Removes excess skin and tightens surrounding tissue | Inserts silicone or saline implants to add volume |
| Ideal Candidates | Women with sagging breasts due to ageing, pregnancy, or weight loss | Women looking to enhance breast size or restore volume after weight loss or pregnancy |
| Techniques Used |
|
|
| Incision Locations | Around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the breast crease | Under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit |
| Recovery Time | Typically 4-6 weeks for initial healing | Typically 4-6 weeks for initial healing |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Duration of Results | Long-lasting, but may be affected by significant weight changes or ageing | Implants may need to be replaced every 10-15 years |
| Risks and Complications |
|
|
| Cost | Generally ranges from £3,000 to £6,000 depending on the complexity | Generally ranges from £4,000 to £8,000 depending on implant type and size |
| Impact on Breastfeeding | May affect breastfeeding capabilities | May affect breastfeeding capabilities depending on placement |
| Scarring | More extensive scarring due to skin removal and tissue tightening | Less scarring, typically hidden in less visible areas |
| Customisation | Focuses on lifting and reshaping without significantly changing size | Allows for significant customisation in size and shape through implant choice |
| Combination Possibility | Can be combined with implants for enhanced lift and volume | Can be combined with a lift to both increase size and improve shape |
| Maintenance | Minimal maintenance after healing | May require future surgeries for implant replacement or adjustment |
| Suitability | Best for those primarily concerned with breast sagging | Best for those primarily looking to increase breast size |
Do You Need a Lift, Implants, or Both?
Assessing the degree of breast sagging and volume loss is essential in determining the appropriate procedure. If your breasts are noticeably sagging with a loss of firmness, a breast lift may be necessary. If you desire increased breast size or restoration of lost volume, implants might be the right choice. In some cases, combining both procedures can address both sagging and volume loss effectively.
Understanding your aesthetic goals is important. Consider whether you want to enhance the shape, size, or position of your breasts. Your goals will guide the decision between a lift, implants, or a combination of both. Consulting with Anca can help clarify your objectives and determine the best approach.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding
Consider these factors to help you choose the right procedure:
Age and Skin Elasticity
Your age and skin elasticity play significant roles in determining the best procedure. Younger patients with good skin elasticity may achieve excellent results with a breast lift alone. Older patients or those with decreased skin elasticity might benefit more from a combination of a lift and implants to achieve desired results.
Weight Fluctuations and Pregnancy History
Significant weight fluctuations and pregnancy can affect breast shape and volume. If you have experienced weight loss or multiple pregnancies, you may have sagging breasts or a loss of volume. Understanding your weight history and pregnancy experience can help in choosing the right procedure.
Lifestyle and Activity Level
Your lifestyle and activity level should also be considered. Active individuals may prefer submuscular implant placement to minimise interference with physical activities. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can influence the longevity of the results from either procedure.
FAQs about Breast Lift and Implants
How long does the surgery take?
- The duration of breast lift or implant surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure. Typically, a breast lift alone takes about 2 to 3 hours. If you’re also getting implants, the surgery might extend to 3 to 4 hours. Factors like the surgeon’s technique and your specific needs can influence the time. During your consultation, Anca will provide a more accurate estimate based on your individual case.
What types of scars can I expect?
- Both breast lift and implant procedures involve incisions that will result in scars. The location and size depend on the surgical technique used. Common incision types include around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and along the crease itself. While scars are permanent, they typically fade over time and become less noticeable. Anca will aim to place them in discreet areas to minimise their visibility.
Will my breasts feel different after surgery?
- After a breast lift or implants, it’s normal to experience some changes in sensation. You might feel increased sensitivity or numbness around the nipple and areola initially. These sensations usually improve over a few weeks to months as nerves heal. The overall feel of your breasts may also change slightly depending on the type of implants used. Discuss any concerns with your surgeon to understand what to expect.
Are there any long-term risks?
- Like any surgery, breast lift and implant surgery come with potential long-term risks. These can include implant rupture, capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant), and changes in breast shape over time. A breast lift may require future procedures if significant weight changes or ageing affect your breasts. Regular check-ups with your surgeon can help monitor your results and address any issues promptly.
How should I prepare for surgery?
- Preparing for a breast lift or implant surgery involves several steps. You should arrange for someone to accompany you on the day of the procedure and help you at home during the initial recovery. Avoid smoking and certain medications that can affect healing, as advised by your surgeon. Follow all pre-surgery instructions, such as fasting if required. Wearing comfortable, loose clothing on the day can also make the process smoother.
Further Reading about Breast Augmentation with Anca Breahna
- Read more about: Breast Augmentation Trends: What’s Popular in 2024?
- Read more about: How to Get a Natural Looking Breast Augmentation Using Smaller Implants
- Read more about: Recovery Timeline after Breast Augmentation
- Red more about: When Can I Exercise after Breast Augmentation Surgery?
- Read more about: Preparing for Breast Augmentation: A Checklist
Medical References for Breast Enlargement
- Breast Augmentation– American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Breast Augmentation– Mayo Clinic
- Breast Implants– Web MD
- How Long Is the Recovery for A Breast Augmentation?– American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Breast Enlargement (implants)– NHS
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Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of 
