When it comes to cosmetic breast procedures, some patients come into our state-of-the-art practice asking for one procedure, when the results they desire are actually made possible by an entirely different treatment. This happens most often for patients who are asking for breast augmentation but expect the results of a breast lift, and vice versa.
In order to clear up some of the confusion regarding these related but different procedures, our plastic surgeon often explains the following to patients regarding cosmetic breast enhancement:
Breast Augmentations
An augmentation mammoplasty, also known as breast augmentation or breast enlargement, most commonly utilizes an implant to increase cup size. Breast implants are shells filled with saline solution or a silicone gel of varying firmness. The final volume, shape, and texture of the implant is determined by patient preference, guidance from our doctor, and helps to inform placement of implants during the procedure. For example, a smooth, teardrop-shaped, saline implant will have a much different appearance and feeling for a patient than a textured, round, form-stable silicone implant would. Pre-filled implants, like silicon must be inserted as-is, while saline implants can be filled after placement for a smaller incision. There is also natural breast augmentation, which is a process that uses your body’s own fat cells in place of an implant.
The different choices of implant allow for customized final results in patients hoping to achieve a fuller figure; however, breast implants will not alter the appearance of drooping breasts as the result of sagging skin.
Breast Lift
A mastopexy, or breast lift, is a procedure that raises and firms breasts by re-positing skin. Breast lifts reverse sagging tissue that not only occurs with age, but from pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss. Breast lifts will not help increase the size of the breasts themselves, so it’s important to consider where your main aesthetic concerns lie—whether that’s the position of breasts, lost volume, or a combination of both, as is commonly the case with weight loss and pregnancy/breastfeeding. Patients who are noticing drooping skin as a result of the natural aging process may benefit from a lift alone.
Learn More about Cosmetic Breast Surgery
Dr. Joe provides both breast augmentations and breast lifts. Not only can these be procedures provided independently, but Dr. Joe has the experience necessary to perform both procedures in combination to help his patients achieve their desired appearance. Call us today to find out how our cosmetic surgeon can best help you.