Two of the most common breast plastic surgery procedures are breast augmentation and breast lift surgery. They are both designed to improve the appearance of a woman’s breasts. However, the procedures are different in their approach and the intended results. Understanding the differences between these two procedures can help individuals choose the right procedure to meet their goals.
Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is a cosmetic procedure that uses implants to enhance the size, shape, and volume of the breast. The procedure is suitable for women who have small or asymmetrical breasts, have lost breast volume due to aging or pregnancy, or want to improve their breast shape.
There are two types of implants commonly used in breast augmentation surgery: silicone and saline implants. Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel that resembles natural breast tissue. On the other hand, saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater.
The breast augmentation surgery involves an incision being made under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. Ultimately, the placement depends on the implant type, size, and patient preference. The implant is inserted into a pocket created behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle. The incision is closed using sutures or surgical tape.
Breast Lift Surgery
Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and reshaping of the breast tissue to improve the shape, position, and firmness of the breasts. The procedure is suitable for women who have sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
The breast lift surgery involves an incision being made around the areola and extending down to the crease of the breast or along the natural breast fold. The excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to lift the breasts. In some cases, the nipple and areola may be repositioned to achieve a more natural appearance.
Differences Between Breast Plastic Surgery Procedures
Intended Results
The primary goal of breast augmentation surgery is to increase the size and volume of the breasts, while breast lift surgery aims to lift, firm, and reshape sagging breasts. While both procedures can enhance the appearance of the breasts, they have different goals and outcomes.
Implants
Breast augmentation surgery involves the use of implants to increase the size and volume of the breasts, while breast lift surgery does not involve the use of implants. Instead, breast lift surgery involves reshaping the existing breast tissue to achieve a more lifted and firm appearance.
Incision Placement
The incision placement for breast augmentation surgery is different from breast lift surgery. Breast augmentation surgery incisions can be made under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit, while breast lift surgery incisions are made around the areola and extend down to the crease of the breast or along the natural breast fold.
Recovery Time
The recovery time for breast augmentation surgery is generally shorter than breast lift surgery. Breast augmentation surgery patients can typically return to work within a week or two, while breast lift surgery patients may need several weeks to recover fully.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation surgery is generally less than breast lift surgery. Breast augmentation surgery typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000, while breast lift surgery costs between $4,000 and $8,000, depending on the extent of the procedure and the location of the surgery.
Breast augmentation surgery and breast lift surgery are two popular cosmetic procedures designed to enhance the appearance of a woman’s breasts. While both procedures can improve the appearance of the breasts, they have different goals, approaches, and outcomes. It is essential to understand the differences between these two procedures to choose the right one to meet your goals. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will also be helpful to determine which procedure is best suited for you. Ultimately, both procedures can produce excellent results and it’s important to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who can provide the desired outcome for your individual needs. If you are interested in breast plastic surgery, call Dr. Martin at Cincinnati Plastic Surgery today.