Breast Lift VS Breast Augmentation: Which is Right for Me?
Published on May 25, 2020 by Andrew Barnett
Breast Lift VS Breast Augmentation: Which is Right for Me?
It is not uncommon for women to be concerned about their breast size and shape– whether you’re looking to augment your breasts or reshape and reposition them, it’s important to understand which procedure is right for you. While the different breast enhancement procedures can be confusing, I’m here to help you make the correct decision. Two of the most common breast procedures I perform are breast lifts and breast augmentations, but which one will correctly address your specific needs?
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a procedure designed to add volume and change the shape of your breasts to one that better fits your goals and ideals. Breast Augmentation is ideal for women who want larger breasts rather than those who are satisfied with their breast size, and are interested in lifting, rather than enlarging. Breast augmentations are done with implants strategically placed either above or below the chest muscles. There are many different types of implants, so there are a lot of options to choose from. At times, women want more fullness on the upper portion of the breast while others are looking for a gentle slope to the upper portion of the breast. Implant profile – low, medium, or high – can alter the shape of your breast. Well placed implants can also give the illusion of a lift, positioning the implant in the right place relative to your natural breast and your chest wall. Keep in mind, the breast “mound”, following breast augmentation, is a combination of your natural breast tissue and the implant that is added in the augmentation procedure.
Sizing and Breast Implants
Many people describe the size they want through cup size, but I have found this to be a very inaccurate measurement— bra companies have not standardized these measurements and different sizes look different on different people. I make sure to discuss this with you very carefully to make sure we understand what is the best size for you. We will do sizing using different size bras and different size implant sizers. This way we can make sure that your results are what you want and that you’ll be happy with your augmentation for years to come.
Breast lift & Breast Augmentation Consultations Available
What Is A Breast Lift?
If you’re less concerned with changing your breast size and more concerned with reshaping or perking up your existing breasts, a breast lift may be the answer. Position and shape are just as important as size, and I consider this procedure to be just as crucial to have in my repertoire as augmentations. Breast lifts are ideal for addressing sagging breasts which are often the result of the following situations:
- Shrunken Breast Tissue After Breastfeeding or Menopause
- Weight Loss/Stretched Skin Envelope
- Asymmetry
- Low Nipple Position
Breast drooping, called ptosis, is common to experience as you age. Thankfully, I can generally reverse it and get you back to feeling confident in your body.
Shaping and Lifting
One advantage of a breast lift is that implants may not be required– by reshaping fatty tissue and reshaping the breast gland, you can achieve great results. I will also focus my attention on the skin, which acts as natural support. By lifting and reshaping your breast tissue beneath the skin, I can reposition the breast to where you want them to be. In many instances, the nipple can be repositioned higher on the breast for a “perkier” appearance.
Breast Lift and/or Breast Augmentation?
At first, It may be hard to decide which option is right for you. In fact, many women who feel they only need a breast lift undergo the combined procedure of breast augmentation and lift once they understand the benefits. If you’re unsure of what the best option is for you, our consultation will address all your questions and provide you with the information that will empower you to make the right decision. From your first screening to the end of recovery, our office is here to help.
“I lost about 20 pounds through exercise away went my natural 34B/C breasts, which I had always loved. They were the first to go when I began losing weight, and kept shrinking more and more. 🙁 I lost a bit of self-esteem despite the hard work I put in to shaping my body. I started to consider a breast augmentation procedure but hesitated to take the plunge (so to speak) because I had not found the right doctor. I had the opportunity to see and feel some of Dr. Barnett’s breast work in person before I decided to meet him for my pre-op consultation. I was so surprised by how natural a breast augmentation could look and feel, and my friends had great things to say about Dr. Barnett. It was a no-brainer, and I made my appointment with him!” *
Take the Next Step
Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 879-8735. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have!