Breast augmentation alone may improve mild sagging in some cases, but women with more significant breast ptosis typically need a breast lift to achieve elevated, natural-looking results. The best way to determine whether you need implants alone or a breast lift with augmentation is to consult with a plastic surgeon, but several factors can help guide your decision.
Breast Augmentation vs. Breast Lift
Breast augmentation increases the size of the breasts with implants. If your breasts are starting to sag, implants can make the condition worse because of their added weight. A breast lift reshapes breast tissue and removes excess skin, creating more support for implants if a patient wants to combine a lift with augmentation. Our surgeons use a technique called a short-scar breast lift with implants when appropriate.
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Do You Need Breast Augmentation or a Breast Lift?
Do you need a breast lift? Here are 3 things to consider:
Nipple Position
Stand bare-breasted in front of a mirror. Are your nipples pointed straight ahead or only slightly down? If so, you may not need a breast lift. If they’re pointed noticeably downward or are below the crease of the breasts, you are probably a good breast lift candidate. Your breasts may appear flat or elongated. This occurs with aging or after having children, as breasts lose volume and become heavier in the lower pole (lower portion of the breasts). A breast lift repositions the nipple and areola so they are in harmony with the elevated breast.
Breast Volume
How round or full your breasts appear is referred to as breast volume. Again, age and pregnancy can result in breasts losing volume and appearing deflated. Weight loss is another reason for lost breast volume. If the volume loss is not too pronounced and your breasts don’t sag, breast implants can improve the shape of your breasts. But if the volume loss is accompanied by sagging, you’ll need to combine implants with a lift.
Breast Symmetry
Many people undergo a breast lift procedure because their breasts are asymmetrical, or one breast sits lower than the other. A skilled plastic surgeon can reconstruct your breast tissue so that you leave your procedure with more even, shapely breasts.
Breast lift surgery performed by an experienced, talented plastic surgeon can create beautiful results that will last for years. If you’re looking for a breast lift specialist, request a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at The Wall Center by using the online form. You can also call our Shreveport, LA, practice at (318) 795-0801 to schedule an appointment.