Whether the breasts appear asymmetrical, empty, have dropped or sagged, it’s not uncommon for women to want to correct these issues, to restore their confidence in and feel better in themselves. Dependent on the desired effect, a breast augmentation or lift is usually required, but how do you tell which one is right for you? In this post, we look at the difference between the two, helping you to decide.
The Key Difference Between A Breast Augmentation And A Breast Lift
Whereas breast augmentation focuses on the size and shape of the breasts, it won’t correct sagging or drooping breasts, which a breast uplift can.
What Is A Breast Augmentation?
A breast augmentation is where implants are used to enlarge or reshape the breasts. Implants come in two basic shapes: round, which is made of cohesive silicone gel and results in more natural feeling breasts, and tear drop implants, made of solid cohesive silicone gel and provides a more natural shape. The implants will either be placed in front of the pectoral muscles (‘over the muscle’) or underneath them (‘under the muscle’).
If you opt for a breast augmentation, your surgeon will help you choose the appropriate shape and placement based on your anatomy, skin elasticity, body type and preferred size. These factors will determine incision location too: Inframammary (under the breast fold), Periareolar (around the nipple) and Axillary (in the armpit). For more information, please read our detailed brochure.
What Is My Suitability For A Breast Augmentation?
Breast implants are appropriate when:
- Your breasts are fully developed, yet appear asymmetrical, or small.
- The upper part of your breasts seem empty, or have lost volume and shape due to pregnancy, weight loss or ageing.
- There is mild drooping.
- You would like larger breasts.
What Are The Benefits Of A Breast Augmentation?
- Your breasts will appear larger, fuller, better shaped and be in proportion to your body.
- The procedure can restore symmetry so that they are both the same shape and size.
- Clothes and bras will fit better.
- It can help with sagging and drooping breasts.
- Any scarring, bruises and wounds tend to be well-hidden, with healing improving the appearance of them.
What Is A Breast Lift?
A breast lift is used to raise and re-shape the breasts, as well reposition the nipples and areola complex. It involves excising excess skin, remodelling breast issue for a more appealing shape, heightening the nipples and reshaping the areola complex if required. This tightens, firms and contours the breasts.
What Is My Suitability For A Breast Lift?
- Breast drooping or sagging is more severe, perhaps due to the effects of gravity, age, weight loss, and after-effects of pregnancy.
- Your nipples are located at the bottom of the breasts and point downwards.
- The areolas are too big and you want to reduce them.
What Are The Benefits Of A Breast Lift?
- Your breasts will appear perkier, firmer and youthful.
- Scarring is generally well-hidden beneath the breasts, with only slight scarring visible atop the breasts.
It should be noted that a breast lift does not increase breast size. For a fuller chest, a breast augmentation is required, and can be used in conjunction with a breast lift for a complete overhaul.
Are you considering a breast lift or augmentation? Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your options or book a consultation for your procedure.
