Table of Contents
There are many reasons women may choose to undergo a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or a Breast Augmentation. Some women may feel that their breasts are too small and they would like to increase their cup size. Others may feel that their breasts have lost volume and shape after having children and would like them to look fuller and more youthful.
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure to increase the size of the breasts. The procedure typically uses implants. The implants can be placed either behind or in front of the muscle. The choice depends on many factors including patient preference and skin quality.
There are several different types of breast implants that patients may choose from. These include saline, silicone gel, and form stable implants. Each has pros and cons and should be chosen carefully based on the results a patient desires. Incision options include periareolar (around the areola), inframammary (in the fold under the breast) or transaxillary (in the armpit). These options vary in terms of visible scarring and depend on a patient’s unique body.
Breast Lift
A Breast Lift (Mastopexy) is a surgical procedure to lift and reshape breasts that have lost their shape and volume due to pregnancy, nursing, or weight loss. A Breast Lift can be performed with or without implants depending on the volume that is desired.
Breast Lift incisions may vary in length depending on the amount of drooping and tissue laxity. In most cases, there will be an anchor-shaped incision around the areola and then down to the breast fold.
There may also be an extension of this incision horizontally across the breast. This incision pattern allows the surgeon to remove excess skin, reshape the breast tissue and reattach the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast. In some cases, this incision may be just around the areola and not down to the fold if there is minimal skin excess.
Who is the best candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation is a good option for patients who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts. These patients may feel that their breasts are too small, droopy, or uneven. Patients who are looking for a more youthful shape and size may also be good candidates.
Who is the best candidate for a Breast Lift?
A Breast Lift is a good option for patients who want to lift and reshape their breasts to be fuller and more youthful. This procedure is frequently performed on patients who have had children or experienced significant weight loss due to its ability to restore volume and firmness to the breasts. In addition, Breast Lift surgery can also correct nipples that are pointing downwards or are located too low on the breast.
Combining a Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift
There are many different ways that a surgeon can combine a Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation. In some cases, patients may choose to have an augmentation with implants to add volume and increase the size of their breasts. In other cases, patients may choose to have a lift with fat injection to restore firmness and shape. Some patients may choose to have breast implants inserted with a Breast Lift to remove excess skin.
Final Thoughts
Both Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift are surgical procedures that you should discuss with your plastic surgeon. During your consultation, Dr. Castrellón will go through your medical history and current lifestyle to determine surgical candidacy. You will also discuss options like implant size, implant type, incision type, and much more to determine the right surgical plan for your unique needs.
If you seeking plastic surgery in the Miami area and would like to book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Castrellón, get in touch today!
Frequently Ask Questions
In general, as a breast lift involves only removal of skin and a breast augmentation usually involves some work on the pectoral muscle, I think breast augmentations are more uncomfortable and take patients slightly longer to recover from.
When will breast lift incisions be fully healed? Your breast lift incisions should begin to close and heal within the first 1 – 2 weeks after surgery, during which time it is important to keep the area clean and not submerge the incisions.
At a month most patients can resume most exercise except heavy lifting. At six weeks, patients are generally completely healed and can resume all exercises. After breast augmentation, especially with implants under the muscle, I recommend patients try to avoid strenuous chest exercise such as push ups.
Essentially, you’ll need to sleep in an elevated position after breast augmentation surgery for at least one to two months (around six weeks for the majority of patients). The reason is that this position helps to reduce swelling, largely by taking the pressure off the incision areas and the implants themselves.
5 Tips to Speed Your Recovery after Breast Augmentation
- Avoid underwire bras for at least six weeks after surgery.
- Keep your head (and breasts) above water.
- Avoid drinking and smoking as you recover.
- Sleep on your back.
- Avoid strenuous upper body exercises and heavy lifting.
