Breast Augmentation Vs. Breast Lift? Your Top Questions Answered

What are the differences between breast augmentation and a breast lift? If you're not sure which procedure is the right choice, take a look at the top breast augmentation procedure versus lift questions answered.

Which Procedure Is More Popular?

Do women prefer augmentation or lifts? According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons 2018 National Plastic Surgery Statistics data, augmentation is the top cosmetic procedure performed in the United States. Out of the 1.8 million procedures in 2018, more than 313,700 were augmentation surgeries.

What Is an Augmentation Procedure?

Like the name implies, augmentation procedures enlarge (or augment) your breasts. The surgeon will place an implant into each breast, increasing the size and changing the shape/overall look. The specific type of procedure the surgeon uses depends on several factors, such as the doctor's personal preference and your physical or medical needs.

The most common augmentation procedures include inframammary (where the incision is made under the fold of your breast), periareolar (where the incision is made around you nipple), and trans-axillary (where the incision is made in the axillary or armpit area).

What Is a Breast Lift?

While a lift won't add size to your breasts, it can change their appearance. Age, child bearing, and weight gain and loss can cause natural breasts to droop or fall flat. If you've lost breast volume or you aren't happy with the shape or height of your breasts, a lift a procedure to seriously consider. But if you want larger breasts, a lift won't augment the tissue or increase the overall size.

Can You Choose Both Procedures?

Simply stated—yes. Some women want larger, fuller, and higher breasts with added volume or a perkier appearance.  Augmentation won't correct droop and a lift procedure won't enlarge the area. This means one type of surgery alone won't full change the look and shape of your breasts (if you want to correct droop and enlarge the cup size).

Some women choose both procedures to change both types of issues at the same time. This double option adds the desired fullness and repositions dropping or sagging breasts. The result is a completely new, rejuvenated look.

While you can select one procedure at a time, it is possible for the surgeon to complete both at the same time. This option decreases the number of surgeries you have and decreases the risks associated with multiple surgeries. If you're not sure which option is right for your needs, discuss the pros and cons of a dual procedure with your doctor early on in the decision-making process.


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