Nearly 20% of all cosmetic surgeries performed in the US focus on the breasts. While breast implants are the more popular procedure, breast lifts are gaining traction, which poses the question: when comparing a breast lift vs. breast implants, which is better for me?
Both procedures offer stunning results, but they each offer something slightly different. As a result of these slight differences, only one will be the best treatment option to reach a patient’s unique desires and goals. Here, Dr. Farber in Boca Raton, Florida discusses which procedure patients should consider depending on their goals. You can learn even more by scheduling a personalized consultation with Dr. Farber.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, medically referred to as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape the breasts. Over time, factors such as age, gravity, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations can cause the breasts to lose their firmness and sag. A breast lift helps combat these changes by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This procedure can also reposition or resize the areolas if necessary. With a breast lift, patients achieve a more youthful, uplifted breast contour.
What is a Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical operation that aims to increase the size, change the shape, or improve the fullness of the breasts.
Surgeons achieve this by inserting breast implants or, in some cases, through fat transfer. Breast augmentation is a good choice for those who desire larger breasts, want to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, or who want to achieve better breast symmetry. It’s important to note that while augmentation alters the size and fullness of the breasts, it doesn’t address significant sagging. Sagging is a concern better managed with a breast lift.
Who is a Candidate for a Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation?
If you’re in good health, relatively close to your ideal body weight, have realistic expectations for what each procedure can deliver, are committed to leading a healthy lifestyle to maintain results, and want to change or improve the appearance of your breasts, then you’re a good candidate for either a breast lift or breast augmentation.
Breast Augmentation vs. Breast Lift: How Do I Know Which Procedure I Need?
When deciding between a breast lift and breast augmentation, it ultimately comes down to your specific goals. If you’re primarily concerned about sagging or drooping breasts, a breast lift is your best option. However, if you’re more interested in increasing the size or fullness of your breasts, breast augmentation would likely be more suitable. It’s not uncommon for individuals to undergo both procedures to both enhance the size and lift the breasts.
Can Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation Procedures Be Combined?
Yes, combining a breast lift with breast augmentation is a common practice often referred to as augmentation-mastopexy.
This combined procedure allows for both the reshaping and repositioning of the breasts while simultaneously enhancing their size and fullness. Combining these procedures can be beneficial for individuals who have experienced sagging or loss of volume due to aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Needs
Choosing the right plastic surgeon for your needs is a critical step in your cosmetic surgery journey. It’s important to seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in the procedure you’re considering. Don’t hesitate to ask potential surgeons about their qualifications, experience, and the number of times they’ve performed the procedure.
Consider their communication style too – you want a surgeon who listens to your goals, answers your questions thoroughly, and makes you feel comfortable. Review before-and-after photos of previous patients to gauge their aesthetic style and surgical outcomes.
Furthermore, practical considerations, such as the location of the clinic, hospital affiliations, surgical fees, and whether your insurance covers the procedure, should also influence your decision. It’s always a good idea to consult with several surgeons before making your final choice. Remember, the goal is to choose a surgeon who aligns best with your needs, comfort, and desired aesthetic outcome.
Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation in Boca Raton, Florida
Deciding on breast surgery, whether it be a breast lift or breast augmentation, is an empowering decision that can improve one’s quality of life significantly. If you’d like to book a consultation or learn more about breast lifts and breast augmentations in Florida, contact Dr. Farber at (561) 503-2700 or fill out this online form to arrange your private consultation and start your journey towards looking and feeling your best.