Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lift (MASTOPEXY) Surgery?

Breast augmentation involves the insertion of implants to increase breast volume, while breast lifting focuses on reshaping and elevating sagging breasts. Understanding the nuances of these two procedures is critical for prospective patients, as each caters to different aesthetic goals and addresses unique concerns related to breast appearance.

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of breast augmentation and breast lifts, examining the procedures, candidacy criteria, recovery timelines, risks, scarring implications, and associated costs. By dissecting these aspects, individuals can make informed decisions aligned with their personal desires and aesthetic objectives.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also colloquially referred to as a “boob job,” is a type of cosmetic surgery that involves the placement of breast implants to increase the volume and enhance the shape of the breasts. This surgery primarily addresses concerns related to the size of the breasts rather than their position on the chest wall. Patients often seek this procedure to achieve a more proportionate figure or to restore breast volume lost after weight fluctuations including pregnancy.

 

Overview of the procedure

The breast augmentation procedure typically involves making an incision in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring. The commonest incision site is the lower breast fold (inframammary fold). Through this incision, the plastic surgeon places the breast implants either beneath the breast tissue or under the chest muscle, depending upon the type of implant, body type, and desired results. The choice of placement will influence the result. The entire process is typically performed under general anaesthesia.

Types of implants available

Breast implants come mainly in two forms: saline and silicone. Saline implants are silicone shells filled with sterile saltwater – these are rarely used by Australian Plastic Surgeons. On the other hand, Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel, which in the end provide a much better result compared to saline implants.

Implants have variations in shape, texture, and profile to suit different body types and aesthetic goals. The type of implant selected often depends on patient preference, body type, and the recommendations of the qualified surgeon performing the surgery.

Goals and expected results

The primary goal of breast augmentation is to enhance the size and contour of the breasts to create a more balanced figure appropriate for the individuals desired look. While breast augmentation provides a significant and noticeable enhancement in breast size, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand that it does not correct severely drooping breasts.

A breast lift may be necessary in conjunction with augmentation for those with significant breast ptosis (sagging) to achieve the desired result. Post-surgery, patients are typically advised to limit strenuous activities to allow the body time to heal and to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgical procedure. The recovery process spans four-six weeks, with patients returning to normal activity as advised by their plastic surgeon – typically no sooner than four weeks post-surgery.

Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lift

Breast Augmentation

A surgical procedure designed to increase or restore breast size using implants, or in some cases, fat transfer. During breast augmentation, implants are placed either beneath the breast tissue or the chest muscle, through incisions made within the lower breast fold. The type of implant and the site of incision are chosen based on the individual’s breast anatomy, body type, and desired increase in size.

Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, aims to raise and firm the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. This procedure is ideal for addressing breast ptosis (sagging) resulting from weight fluctuations, pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, and gravity. The incisions can vary from around the areola to more invasive anchor-shaped patterns, depending on the degree of lift required.

The expected results for each are outlined below:

Breast Augmentation:

• Increased breast volume
• Fuller breast appearance
• Enhanced breast symmetry
• Customisation through the type of implant and implant size

Breast Lift:

• Elevated nipple position
• Tightening a loose, or ptotic underboob.
• Overall elevation of the breast position on the chest
• Improved breast shape and contour
• Reduced loose skin and sagginess
• Retained breast size with a more lifted appearance

Both procedures may be combined for patients wishing to both lift and enhance the size of their breasts. Consultation with a qualified surgeon is vital to establish realistic expectations and determine the most appropriate surgical approach for each individual’s body type and aesthetic goals.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift, medically referred to as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure aimed at raising and reshaping sagging breasts. The primary objective of a breast lift is to address breast ptosis, which is the drooping or sagging of the breasts. This condition can occur due to various factors, including the natural aging process, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and gravitational forces. The procedure repositions the breast tissue, tightens the breast skin, and lifts the nipple and areola to a higher position. A breast lift does not typically increase the overall size of the breasts, but rather improves their shape and firmness, leading to an enhanced breast contour.

Techniques used in Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lifting can involve several surgical techniques, depending on the individual’s unique breast anatomy, the extent of breast ptosis, and the desired outcome. The techniques vary in the placement of incision sites, extent of tissue removal, and method of repositioning the nipple and areola.

Below are common techniques used in breast lift surgery:

1. Crescent Lift: Minor lifting using a crescent-shaped incision along the upper half of the areola. Overall, this is a very poor technique which provides negligible lift and typically distorts the areolar shape.

1. Peri-Areolar Lift, or “Donut” Lift: Involves a circular incision around the areola for mild lifting and areola resizing.

1. Vertical Lift, or “Lollipop” Lift: Includes an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast fold, suitable for moderate lifting.

1. Inverted T Lift, or “Anchor” Lift: Combines the incisions of the lollipop lift with an additional horizontal incision along the breast crease for significant reshaping. This is the commonest technique necessary to provide a quality effective lift.

The breast lift technique used is tailored to each patient, considering factors such as the degree of lifting needed, volume of breast tissue, and the amount of excess skin to be removed. It is essential for patients to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss the most appropriate technique to achieve their desired breast contour while minimising scarring and ensuring a quality outcome.

Key differences between Breast Augmentation and Breast lifts

Breast augmentation and breast lifts are commonly performed cosmetic surgeries with distinct objectives and outcomes. Breast augmentation, or bilateral augmentation mammoplasty, is a procedure that involves the placement of breast implants underneath the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase breast size. This option is popular among women who wish to enhance their breast volume, which may have been affected by weight loss, weight gain, or pregnancy. Types of implants – shape, style & size choices – allow customisation to fit the patient’s desired look and body type.

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing breast ptosis or sagging. This operation involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and raise the breasts, restoring a youthful contour. Weight fluctuations and ageing can contribute to loss of skin elasticity, leading to a need for a breast lift.

While both augmentation and lifts can improve breast aesthetics, the former places emphasis on breast fullness, whereas the latter addresses the position and shape. It’s not uncommon for patients to combine both procedures, known as augmentation-mastopexy, to attain increased volume and an uplifted breast position simultaneously.

Impact on breast volume and shape

Breast augmentation notably increases breast volume, providing a fuller breast shape and an increase in size. Implant size and the type of implant, as well as placement choices, directly impact the final breast volume and overall appearance post-surgery.

In contrast, a breast lift does not inherently change the size of the breasts. Instead, it corrects the shape and position. By tightening the breast skin and tissue, a lift provides a more elevated and firmer breast contour. The removal of excess skin can sometimes lead to a slight reduction in breast size, although this is generally not the primary intent of the surgery.

Scarring differences

One of the considerations in deciding between breast augmentation and breast lift is the difference in scarring resulting from each procedure. Breast implant surgery usually results in less noticeable scarring since the incision are typically discreet within the lower breast fold. These incision sites typically heal well, making the scars less conspicuous.

Conversely, breast lifts often involve more invasive procedures with incisions that will result in more extensive scarring. Depending on the extent of lifting required, incision patterns can be around the areola, down to the breast fold, and sometimes horizontally along the breast crease, as seen in the “Anchor” lift technique. Plastic surgeons endeavor to minimise visible scarring, but the extent of necessary incisions can vary based on the severity of the breast ptosis and the required reshaping to achieve optimal breast contour.

Patients should discuss the implications of scarring and recovery process with a qualified surgeon before undergoing any surgical procedure. Ultimately, the decision on which surgery to pursue should be based on a thorough understanding of the potential outcomes and the individual’s aesthetic goals, as well as a careful consideration of the trade-offs regarding invasiveness and risk of complications.

Candidacy criteria for Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a type of cosmetic surgery that will enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. While many individuals may desire the changes that breast augmentation can provide, it is important to understand that not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure. Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are typically individuals who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way their breasts look.

The following are generally accepted candidacy criteria for breast augmentation:

• Emotional maturity and realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
• Good physical health, without active infections or serious chronic diseases that might impact the surgery or recovery.
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit prior to the surgery and throughout the recovery process, as smoking can impair wound healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Stabilised breast size, meaning breasts have fully developed, which usually occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood.
• No current malignant or pre-malignant breast conditions or active conditions that could impair healing.

Ideal candidates

Individuals who are considered ideal candidates for breast augmentation typically share the following attributes:

• Dissatisfaction with their breasts due to size, volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss, or asymmetry.
• Want to restore or increase breast volume and shape due to aging, weight fluctuations, or childbirth and breastfeeding.
• Have a positive outlook and realistic expectations of the postoperative outcomes.
• Committed to following pre-surgical and post-surgical instructions provided by their plastic surgeons.

Factors influencing the decision

Multiple factors can significantly influence the decision to undergo breast augmentation, including:

• Personal self-esteem and body image: a healthy psychological position is necessary.
• Medical considerations: Past medical history and the likelihood of potential risks or complications.
• Lifestyle implications: How the recovery period might affect personal and professional commitments.
• Financial responsibility: A full understanding of the financial cost, as breast augmentation is not covered by insurance.

Consultation considerations

During a consultation for breast augmentation, careful discussion between patients and qualified surgeon is essential. Important considerations include:

• A full medical history review and physical examination to assess breast health, including breast tissue and skin quality.
• An honest discussion about the individual’s expectations, desired implant size, type of implant, and any concerns they may have.
• Potential risks, complications, and the details of the breast augmentation procedure, including incision sites and placement of the implants.
• The recovery process, including any limitations on normal activity post-surgery and steps to take to ensure optimal healing.
• Visual aids or simulations may help in understanding potential outcomes of different breast implant sizes and shapes, relative to body type.

By providing a full scope of the above-mentioned points during consultation, an informed decision can be made, and suitable candidates can proceed with confidence into their breast enhancement surgery.

Candidacy criteria for Breast Lifts

Individuals considering a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, must understand the candidacy criteria to determine if this procedure is suitable for them. Ideal candidates for breast lifts generally exhibit one or more of the following characteristics:

• Experiencing breast ptosis (sagging) due to aging, weight fluctuations, or breastfeeding.
• Having excess skin or loose skin around the breasts that contribute to a droopy appearance.
• Nipples that point downward or sit below the breast fold due to the loss of breast tissue volume or elasticity.

• Asymmetrical breasts where one may hang lower than the other.
• Generally healthy with no medical conditions that impair healing or increase surgical risk.
• Non-smokers, as smoking can hinder the recovery process.
• Maintaining a stable weight, as significant weight gain or weight loss after the procedure can affect the surgical outcome.
• Have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery.

• Are prepared to accept the additional scarring and potential complications associated with breast lift surgery.

Potential candidates should consult with a plastic surgeon to evaluate their specific condition and discuss the potential benefits and risks of breast lift surgery. It is crucial to consider all factors, including one’s body type, breast contour, and personal goals, when deliberating about this invasive cosmetic surgery.

Recovery timelines: Breast Augmentation Vs Breast Lift

Both breast augmentation and breast lifts are invasive surgical procedures that require significant recovery time for the patient to heal properly and see the full results. However, the recovery timelines for these procedures can vary based on the extent of surgery, the patient’s body type, and the individual’s healing process.

Typical recovery process for Breast Augmentation

The typical recovery process for breast augmentation involves several stages. Initially, after the surgery – which involves placing breast implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle – patients can expect to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain medication is prescribed to manage any post-operative pain.

The initial recovery period after breast implant surgery usually spans the first 48-72 hours, where patients are advised to rest and avoid any strenuous activity. After this, most can return to work and engage in light activities after a week, provided their job is not physically demanding. The swelling should start to subside within a few weeks, and as it does, the shape of the new breasts will become more apparent.

It is crucial to follow the plastic surgeon’s aftercare instructions diligently to ensure proper healing. The complete healing process can take several months, and the final results may only be noticeable after this period when the implants have settled into their permanent position – approximately six months post-op.

Typical recovery process for Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery, which involves the removal of excess skin and tightening of the remaining breast skin to lift and reshape the breast, has a recovery timeline that closely mirrors that of breast augmentation but can vary due to the nature of the incision sites and the surgical changes made to the breast tissue and contour.

Even though breast lift surgery is more complex and involves more scars than a breast augmentation, most patients typically experience less pain and discomfort with a breast lift.

 Activity restrictions and care

Post-surgical care and adherence to activity restrictions are critical to ensuring a safe and successful recovery from both breast augmentation and breast lifts. After either procedure, patients are generally advised to avoid:

• Heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for four to six weeks.

• Any activity that can raise blood pressure or heart rate in the early post-operative period.

• Sleeping on their stomach, which could put undue pressure on the breasts.

• Submerging in bathtubs, swimming pools, or hot tubs until fully healed.

Patients must also be diligent in caring for their incision sites to minimise the risk of infection, keep up with scheduled follow-up appointments with their plastic surgeon, and report any signs of complications such as excessive swelling, redness, or unusual discharge immediately.

It is important to note that each individual’s recovery will differ, and detailed, personalised instructions should be provided by the surgeon based on the patient’s unique situation. Taking sufficient time to rest, combined with proper care and adherence to the surgeon’s guidelines, contributes to ensuring an optimal recovery from either breast augmentation or breast lifts.

Risks and complications

Both breast augmentation and breast lift surgeries, as with any invasive surgery, do carry risks and potential complications. These may include, but are not limited to, infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, scarring, and difficulties with breast-feeding. Additionally, there could be an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

Complications specific to the type of procedure can also occur, such as implant-related issues for breast augmentation and concerns with the shape and position of the breast following a breast lift.

Patients should discuss their individual risk profile with their plastic surgeon to fully understand the potential complications and how these risks apply to their specific case.

Common risks associated with Breast Augmentation

Risks associated with this procedure can be related to the implant itself such as rupture, capsular contracture (where scar tissue forms around the implant), or implant displacement. Other risks include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and dissatisfaction with the implant size or aesthetic outcome.

There is also the rare risk associated with some type of implants called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

It is important for patients to understand these risks and the long-term commitment to breast monitoring when considering breast augmentation.

Common risks associated with Breast Lifts

Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, addresses issues of breast ptosis (sagging) by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. Potential complications include poor wound healing, skin or tissue necrosis, asymmetry, loss of nipple or breast sensation, and scarring.

It is pertinent to note that the quality of the outcome can be influenced by future life events like weight fluctuations or pregnancy, which may affect the longevity of the results.

Detailed list of potential complications associated with both Breast Implant and Breast Lift surgery can be found at the following:

www.drdonaplasticsurgery.com.au/breasts/breast-implants/#potential-complications

www.drdonaplasticsurgery.com.au/breasts/breast-lift/#complications

Comparing long-term outcomes

As a rule, the final surgical results are achieved by approximately the six-month mark. In other words, the results have settled, and the shape and form are now complete as far as the surgery is concerned.

However, no surgery stops the passage of time and the ageing process. Your body, and therefore your breasts will continue to change and age as dictated by numerous factors such as lifestyle, weight changes, pregnancy and genetics.

Therefore, with or without implants, your breasts will continue to change and age at a rate dictated by numerous factors.

In addition to this, breast implants, while intended to be long-lasting, may require replacement or revision surgery after a number of years due to issues such as rupture or capsular contracture. Furthermore, your aesthetic ideals may change over time, and you may at a later stage in life wish to have smaller breasts.

In contrast, the results of a breast lift will also change with the body’s natural ageing process, a process which will be influenced by factors like weight gain, weight loss, and pregnancy, which can affect the breast contour and skin elasticity. While breast lift patient do not have any implant issues to consider, the potential need for revision surgery to maintain the desired effect should be considered.

Patients must have realistic expectations and understand that neither procedure halts the natural aging process or prevents changes to the breast contour that may result from life events or weight fluctuations. The best approach is a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon, who can help guide each individual toward the procedure that best aligns with their aesthetic goals and lifestyle.

Scarring and aesthetic considerations

When choosing between breast augmentation and breast lift procedures, patients must consider the potential for scarring alongside the aesthetic enhancements they seek. Scars are an inevitable outcome of surgery, as incisions are necessary to either insert implants or remove excess skin. Surgeons strategically place incision sites to minimise visible scars, and the appearance of scars will vary based on individual healing characteristics, the extent of the surgical procedures, and the techniques employed by the plastic surgeon.

Understanding the implications of scarring is essential in setting realistic expectations and achieving satisfaction with the end result of the surgery. Both procedures, when performed by skilled plastic surgeons, aim to ensure that scarring is discreet and can be concealed under clothing or swimwear. It is crucial to acknowledge that some level of scarring is permanent, but their prominence typically diminishes over time.

Scarring from Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation involves incisions which are generally made in inconspicuous areas to minimise visible scarring. Common incision sites include:

• Inframammary: Within the lower breast fold, which remains hidden beneath the breast contour – the method used by the vast majority of plastic surgeons – the best and safest option.

• Periareolar: Around the areola, which aids in camouflaging the scar along the natural color transition of the breast skin.

• Transaxillary: In the armpit, where the scar is not on the breast itself – the least used approach with greater potential complication rate.

The size and visibility of scars resulting from breast augmentation largely depend on the type of implant, implant size, and the individual’s healing process. Scar maturity, wherein scars flatten and lighten, can take up to 1-2 years.

Scarring from Breast Lifts

Breast lift surgery, designed to correct breast ptosis, typically requires more extensive incisions than breast augmentation, which may lead to more noticeable scarring. Standard incision patterns include:

• Periareolar: Encircling the areola for mild ptosis.

• Lollipop: Circling the areola and descending to the breast fold.

• Anchor: Extending from the lollipop incision horizontally along the breast fold.

These incision patterns facilitate the removal of loose skin and allow for the reshaping of breast tissue for an uplifted appearance. The resulting scars from a breast lift are permanent but will improve in texture and colour over time.

Techniques to minimise scarring

Patients and surgeons can take several measures to minimise the appearance of scars following breast surgeries, which include:

• Selecting a highly skilled plastic surgeon with proficiency in the latest surgical techniques.

• Following a healthy lifestyle pre- and post-surgery to promote better healing (e.g., not smoking, maintaining a stable weight, etc.).

• Avoiding sun exposure to incision sites during the recovery process.

• Adhering to surgeon recommendations for wound care and recovery timelines.

In addition to these measures, patients should maintain open lines of communication with their plastic surgeons to address any concerns or questions about the healing and scarring process. With the right care and attention, scars from breast augmentation and breast lifts can become relatively inconspicuous.

Costs: Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lifts

The cost of cosmetic surgery can vary widely depending on the surgical procedures chosen and an array of other factors. Generally, the costs will be directly related to the anticipated time to perform the surgery and the complexity. As a rule, breast lift surgery will take two-three times longer that a routine breast augmentation and is vastly more complex. As such, the fees for a breast lift will be greater than that of a breast augmentation.

Breakdown of expenses for each procedure

When considering the breakdown of expenses for each procedure, several components contribute to the overall cost. These may include:

Breast Augmentation cost:

• Surgeon’s fees: This makes up a significant portion of the cost and varies depending on the plastic surgeon’s expertise and geographic location – time-based costing.

• Type of implant: different implant brands and styles will be priced differently.

• Operating room fees: These may vary depending on the facility – time-based costing.

• Anesthesia fees: Anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and the cost can depend on the type of anesthesia administered and the duration of the procedure – time-based costing.

• Post-surgical garments: Special bras or compression garments may be needed during the recovery process.

• Follow-up appointments: Necessary for proper recovery monitoring.

Breast Lift costs – a far more complex procedure:

• Surgeon’s fees: As with augmentation, this cost varies by surgeon and location – time-based costing.

• Operating room fees: Costs for the facility used for the procedure – time-based costing.

• Anesthesia fees: As with augmentation, these fees are influenced by anesthesia type and the duration of the surgery – time-based costing.

• Post-surgical garments: Supportive garments are typically needed for recovery.

• Follow-up appointments: Essential for tracking the progress of healing and addressing any concerns.

It’s important to note that insurance companies usually do not cover the costs of breast augmentation as they are considered elective cosmetic procedures. However, in some cases a breast lift might have some costs covered by health insurance.

Keep in mind that choosing a qualified surgeon is crucial, even if that may mean higher costs, as expertise and experience often translate into better outcomes and lower risks of complications. When budgeting for either procedure, patients should consider all the listed factors to understand the full financial scope. Consultation with a plastic surgeon can provide more personalised and detailed cost breakdowns for individuals.