Of every available plastic surgery, breast operations are the most popular procedure in the U.S. Women who want to lift, enlarge or simply refine their breasts may be wondering: Do I need a breast lift, a breast augmentation or both?
The answer to this question depends on your unique body goals, your age and your weight history. Below is a series of questions that can help determine if a breast augmentation, a breast lift, or a combination of procedures is the best choice for you.
Do you Want Bigger Breasts? Go for Implants
If the answer to this question is yes, than you will most certainly need breast implants. The only way to increase breast volume is through the addition of an implant, either silicone or saline. With the implant type, implant size and implant placement, you will be able to customize the look and feel of your breast enhancement.
Additional customization options that come along with getting a breast augmentation include breast fullness and shape. Patients can choose whether they want their newly enhanced breasts to be prominent and round, or have a more natural teardrop shape. Breast implants also have a pretty long shelf-life, with the average set of implants lasting ten years and many lasting even longer.
Are your Breasts Sagging? Go for a Lift
If the problem you want to correct is sagging breasts, then you will want to seek out a breast lift. Breast drooping is especially evident as women age, fluctuate in weight or bear children. Over time, the breast skin stretches resulting in low-hanging breasts. A breast lift can reposition the breasts and nipple areas for a higher, more youthful appearance.
Are Breasts Sagging and in Need of Additional Volume? Go for Both
While very little tissue (mostly skin) is removed during breast lift surgery, the dramatic changes in contour can make the breasts appear smaller. If you are concerned about losing volume, then you may want to consider combining breast lift surgery with breast augmentation. Having a breast augmentation with a lift will give you some upper breast fullness along with repositioning sagging breasts up higher. The result is a young, shapely and symmetrical bosom, causing many women to opt for both procedures.
While there are benefits to doing both procedures together, the decision ultimately lies with you. Breast surgery is very personal, and the decision between getting an augmentation, a lift, or both should be researched and thought through to get you as close as possible to your dream results.