Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lift: What’s the Difference?

Are you feeling self-conscious about common issues like sagging breasts or a flat chest? Deciding on the right cosmetic surgery can be tricky. A breast augmentation adds more volume to the area using implants, while a breast lift reshapes existing tissue for a perkier appearance. For those dealing with both issues, a combined procedure can address volume and position at the same time. 

 Understanding your main concern is the first step toward figuring out which procedure is right for you. At Plastic Surgery Institute of Dayton, Inc. in Centerville, OH, we help patients determine the ideal path forward for their goals. Call today to learn about our breast augmentation and lift. 

What changes after pregnancy and aging 

Pregnancy and aging are two of the most common reasons women seek breast augmentation and breast lift procedures. During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause the breasts to swell and become heavier. After childbirth and breastfeeding, this volume is often lost, leading to a deflated or sagging appearance. Similarly, the aging process causes skin to lose elasticity and breast tissue to droop, which can result in a less youthful contour. The good news is that our team can recommend a custom procedure to restore a youthful and proportionate breast shape. 

When breast augmentation is the answer 

Breast implant surgery is the right choice when the primary concern is breast size or volume rather than position. Good candidates typically include:  

• Women with a flat chest: Those who have always wanted more volume or who have lost significant fullness are among the strongest candidates for augmentation. 
• Women with good skin elasticity: If the breasts sit at a natural position on the chest wall and the nipples point forward rather than downward, implants alone can deliver the result most patients are looking for. 
• Women happy with their breast position: If shape and position are not a concern, adding volume through breast implant surgery is a straightforward solution that does not require the additional lift. 

When a breast lift makes more sense 

A breast lift is the right choice when sagging is the primary concern rather than size. If the nipples sit at or below the crease beneath the breast, if the breasts appear deflated or elongated, or if the skin has lost firmness and elasticity, this cosmetic surgery repositions the tissue and tightens the surrounding skin to restore a more youthful contour. A breast lift does not add volume, so patients who are happy with their size but want improved shape and position are the ideal candidates. 

Choosing a combination cosmetic surgery 

A breast augmentation and lift is typically recommended when sagging breasts have also lost significant volume. Combining both in a single surgery means one recovery period and a result that addresses shape, position, and size at the same time. During a consultation at our Centerville, OH practice, our team evaluates each patient's anatomy and goals to determine whether a combined approach is the appropriate path forward. 

Discuss your ideal breast procedure today 

If you have concerns about breast implant surgery, sagging breasts, or whether breast augmentation and lift is the right solution for your flat chest, our team at Plastic Surgery Institute of Dayton, Inc. is here to help. Serving patients in Centerville, OH, our practice is committed to helping every patient feel confident and comfortable in their results. Call today to schedule your consultation.