Breast augmentation and breast lift surgery are two breast procedures performed in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. While they can both change the appearance of the breasts, they serve different purposes. Read on for an overview of what each procedure involves, who it may be suitable for, and why some individuals choose to undergo both at the same time.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and alter the shape of the breasts. This is generally achieved through the insertion of implants placed behind the breast tissue or chest muscle.
What is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
A surgical breast lift, or mastopexy, shapes and elevates breasts that have become stretched or lost support by removing excess skin, repositioning the nipple-areola complex, and reshaping the underlying tissue.
Key Differences: Augmentation vs. Lift
Addressing Volume vs. Excess Breast Skin
Breast augmentation is intended for individuals who wish to increase their breast size. A breast lift, on the other hand, is often chosen by those with stretched skin, downward-pointing nipples, or a flattened breast shape.
Incision and Scarring Considerations
Incisions for breast augmentation are usually smaller and placed discreetly, such as under the breast fold or around the areola. For breast lifts, more extensive incisions are often required to remove skin and elevate the breasts. These may include peri-areolar (around the areola), vertical (down to the breast crease), or inverted-T patterns.
Expected Outcomes and Limitations
Breast augmentation surgery generally increases breast volume, particularly in the upper part of the breast. Whereas a breast lift improves breast position and shape, but does not enlarge the breasts. Understanding what each procedure can and cannot achieve is a key part of the decision-making process.
Combining Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift Surgery
For some patients, combining both procedures may be suitable to increase breast volume while also addressing loose skin or lower breast position.
Who is a Candidate for Each Procedure?
Those considering breast augmentation typically wish to increase their breast size or address volume loss. Candidates for a breast lift are often focused on changes in breast position or skin laxity. In some cases, a combination of both procedures may be appropriate. A consultation with a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable option based on breast anatomy, skin characteristics, and individual preferences.
The Consultation Process with Gold Coast Plastic Surgery
During a consultation at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, patients meet with Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Mark Doyle (FRACS (Plas), for a comprehensive assessment. Dr Doyle has over 30 years’ experience and takes a personalised approach, discussing each patient’s surgery goals, anatomy, and the most appropriate surgical options.
Recovery and Aftercare Considerations
Recovery from breast augmentation and lift surgeries varies by individual and procedure complexity. Both involve downtime, swelling, discomfort, and activity restrictions. Patients typically wear a supportive bra and follow wound care guidelines, with full recovery taking several weeks to months.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast surgery carries certain risks. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in nipple or breast sensation, asymmetry, or complications related to implants. All risks are discussed thoroughly during consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about whether a breast lift, breast augmentation, or combined procedure is right for you, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr Doyle at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
