As women age, it is not uncommon for the shape of their breasts to change, especially if they experience major life events such as pregnancy or loss.
Breasts may appear asymmetrical, empty, dropped, or sagged, which can greatly impact a woman’s confidence. More and more women are choosing to undergo cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of their breasts, with breast uplifts and augmentations quickly growing in popularity.
As women age, it is not uncommon for the shape of their breasts to change, especially if they experience major life events such as pregnancy or loss.
Breasts may appear asymmetrical, empty, dropped, or sagged, which can greatly impact a woman’s confidence. More and more women are choosing to undergo cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of their breasts, with breast uplifts and augmentations quickly growing in popularity.
What is Breast Augmentation?
A breast augmentation, also known as a breast enlargement, is a popular surgical procedure for women unhappy with their breast size or shape. Either silicone or saline implants are inserted to give the breast a better shape or to improve the size.
People undergo breast augmentations for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes, and the implants are placed in the pocket behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle, depending on the preference of the patient and their anatomy.
What is a Breast Uplift?
Whereas a breast augmentation changes the breast size, a breast uplift (also known as a boob lift) raises and reshapes the breasts, removing excess skin and lifting the breast tissues to a higher position. Breast uplifts are intended to make the breasts appear more youthful and firm, improving the natural droop that comes with age.
Another big part of the procedure is correcting the nipple and areola, which makes them more aligned with the new breast shape and positioning.
The Key Differences Between Breast Uplift and Augmentation
Now that you know the main purpose behind both procedures, it’s important to understand the difference between breast augmentation and uplift surgery. Some of the differences include:
Addressing Different Concerns
One significant difference between breast uplifts and augmentations is the concerns that the procedures address. Breast uplifts, also known as mastopexy, are designed to address concerns about the positioning and shape of the breast, focusing on removing excess skin and tightening the underlying breast tissue.
Breast augmentations are instead designed to increase the size and fullness of the breasts, usually focusing on achieving a larger breast shape. However, there can be reconstructive and aesthetic reasons for undergoing the procedure.
Result Comparisons
A breast uplift mainly addresses sagging and tightens the breasts without much change in size, while breast augmentation aims to enhance volume, typically with implants.
A boob lift provides a firmer, more uplifted look with an immediate lift of the breast tissue, whereas augmentation results in larger breasts, with the final shape developing as swelling decreases over a few weeks. The breast lift results are often more noticeable in terms of positioning and firmness.
Recovery Timeline
With both procedures, you can expect at least 2 weeks of initial recovery, which means that you should take at least 2 weeks off work before returning to light activities. You should expect a full recovery from both procedures within 6-8 weeks, but swelling and discomfort can persist for a few months.
Like any procedure, the recovery time for each procedure depends on how you aid the recovery or how your body naturally responds to healing. Wearing a surgical support bra is often recommended during the recovery period to help maintain the new breast shape and position.
Combined Breast Uplift and Augmentation
A lot of people find it difficult to choose between breast augmentation and breast uplift, and many decide to undergo a combined procedure. If you are torn between breast uplift and enlargement, you’ll be happy to know that it is possible to have a combined procedure.
If you have lost volume in your breasts and experienced significant sagging, having a combination procedure can help you achieve the results that you’re looking for. When breasts sag, especially after weight loss and pregnancy, they often lose a lot of volume, which is where implants can make up for the lack of breast tissue, creating a fuller projection.
Choosing the Right Procedure For You
It can be challenging to understand which procedure is the right choice for you, but ultimately, making that decision comes down to the current condition of your breasts and your desired outcome. If your breasts are not as full as you’d like, a breast augmentation can make a substantial difference and provide you with the desired results.
However, if you are not happy with the elasticity of the skin around your breasts and you have experienced substantial sagging that affects your confidence, a breast uplift might be better suited for your needs.
As previously mentioned, if you are experiencing all of the above, a combination procedure is likely the best option.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation and Breast Uplift
Though considered safe procedures, with any procedure, there are associated risks that you should be aware of before making a decision. These include:
Bleeding
Also known as a hematoma, there is the risk that blood may collect in the breast tissue or around an implant after these procedures. While hematomas are minor for the most part, if they are more severe, drainage of the blood may be required.
If you suspect a hematoma after your procedure, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Signs that you may be experiencing a hematoma include swelling, bruising, pain, or a firm and spongy breast, so be sure to look out for any symptoms.
Infection
The risk of infection for both breast augmentation and uplift surgery is really low, but it can be serious if it occurs. Some common signs of infection include swelling, redness, tenderness and wound discharge, so if you notice any of those symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
Anaesthesia Risks
Risks related to anaesthesia following a breast augmentation or uplift include allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, extended drowsiness, and, less commonly, cardiovascular or respiratory problems.
The likelihood of complications increases if you are obese, a smoker, have high blood pressure, or have other health issues. It is crucial to inform your surgeon about your complete medical history and medications to minimise these risks. There’s also a small risk of deep vein thrombosis, which your surgeon will discuss with you during consultation.
Scarring
Unfortunately, scarring is an inevitable result of breast augmentation and uplift procedures. However, the extent of scars varies based on the individual, the surgical method, and the extent of the surgery.
Do your due diligence, carry out the right post-operative care, and follow your surgeon’s instructions to reduce the appearance of your scars.
Reclaim Your Confidence With New Birkdale
Through this guide, we hope to have provided you with more information about breast augmentation and uplift. At New Birkdale Clinic, we are proud to have a staff of talented and experienced surgeons who have the expertise to help with your surgical needs. Get in touch today to find out how our surgeons can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate for these procedures?
You may be a good candidate if you are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and are unhappy with the shape, position, or size of your breasts. A consultation with a surgeon will determine the best option for your goals, whether a breast uplift, augmentation, or a combination of both.
Can I combine a breast uplift with augmentation?
Yes. Many patients combine the two procedures to restore fullness while also correcting sagging. Your surgeon will advise if this combined uplift surgery is right for you.
What type of implants are available for augmentation?
We offer silicone and saline implants, available in different shapes and sizes. Your choice will depend on your desired look, body type, and surgeon’s recommendation.
How long does surgery take?
A breast uplift or augmentation usually takes 1–3 hours, depending on the complexity and whether both procedures are done together.
What is recovery like?
Most patients can return to light activities within 2 weeks, but full recovery and return to exercise usually take 6-8 weeks. You may experience swelling, bruising, and tightness during the healing process. Wearing a surgical support bra is often recommended to aid in recovery and maintain results.
Will I have visible scars?
Both procedures involve incisions, so some scarring is expected. However, surgeons usually place incisions in discreet locations, and scars fade significantly over time. The extent of scarring may differ between a boob lift and breast augmentation.
