Many women seek to enhance their breasts, whether they want to achieve a more feminine and curvaceous silhouette or want to correct sagging breasts or loss of volume. Since there are different breast procedures to choose from, it might be overwhelming to decide which breast surgery is right for you: a breast lift or a breast augmentation?
This blog will discuss what each breast procedure can provide and who is an ideal candidate, so patients can make a well-informed decision for their cosmetic goals and needs.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, also called a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that restores sagging breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or aging. Women who have downward-facing nipples, asymmetrical breasts, or stretched areolas may benefit from a breast lift. The goal is to have the breasts sit higher on the chest for a more rounded, youthful appearance. This is done by removing excess skin, reshaping the natural breast tissue, then adjusting the nipple to a higher, forward-facing position.
Breast lift incisions are created for the procedure and differ from those used for breast augmentation. They are based on the patient’s breast size and shape, the amount of tissue and skin that needs to be removed, and skin elasticity. The type of breast lift incision technique includes:
- Periareolar incision: Also known as the donut incision, Dr. Gonzalez makes an incision around the areola to correct mild sagging, leaving little scarring.
- Lollipop lift: Also called the keyhole incision, this approach creates an incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease. This is recommended for moderate sagging and leaves mild scarring.
- Anchor incision: This is a common technique when significant sagging is present. Similar to the lollipop lift, an anchor incision creates a circle around the areola, then a horizontal line across the breast crease. Scarring is most prominent with an anchor incision.
A breast lift is a highly effective procedure, and each incision technique has its own benefit. Patients can expect their final result to be a perkier bust size. A breast lift restores breast shape and raises the breasts. Patients should not expect an increase in volume or larger breasts.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammaplasty, focuses on increasing breast size with breast implants. This is a very popular procedure that many women undergo to achieve a bustier figure and visible cleavage. A breast augmentation is also highly customizable, with many options to choose from. Patients will discuss with their surgeon which type of breast implant, incision technique, and shape are best for their cosmetic goals and anatomy.
Dr. Gonzalez offers the following types of breast implants:
- Silicone implants: These are filled with silicone gel and enclosed in a silicone shell. This implant has a smooth texture and imitates the feel of natural breast tissue.
- Saline implants: Filled with sterile saltwater and enclosed in a silicone shell, this type of implant is a common option, but is more susceptible to rippling.
- Gummy bear implants: These implants are made of cohesive silicone gel and are durable. This type of breast implant also provides a natural look and feel.
The type of breast implant incision is tied to the type of implant you choose. Your options include:
- Inframammary incision: This incision is placed underneath the breast, across the breast fold, and is recommended for large implants.
- Periareolar incision: This incision is placed around the areola and is most suitable for smaller implants.
- Transaxillary incision: This incision is placed within the armpit and leaves no visible scarring on the breasts.
Patients can also choose between a round or a teardrop-shaped breast implant. Not only do breast augmentation options vary, but so do their benefits. Patients can expect long-lasting results, increased volume, improved body proportions, and a boost in confidence.
Can I Combine a Breast Lift With Breast Augmentation?
If you are torn between a breast lift and a breast augmentation, Dr. Gonzalez can help you understand which procedure will meet your cosmetic goals and concerns. If your breasts sag, but you are happy with their shape and size, a breast lift alone will most likely achieve the necessary corrections. However, if you are unsatisfied with your breast size and shape, and sagging isn’t a concern, breast augmentation may be ideal.
Additionally, combining a breast lift with breast augmentation is a viable option at Le Contour Aesthetic Surgery if you have concerns with sagging and loss of volume. This allows patients to further optimize their results, all while undergoing a single procedure. Your breasts will be rejuvenated, fuller, perkier, and more balanced. Combining procedures also allows patients to complete a single recovery period, which can save surgical time and potential facility fees.
Have More Questions About Breast Surgeries in Orlando, FL?
Dr. Jorge Gonzalez is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience and a strong educational background. He delivers beautiful, long-lasting results by utilizing advanced techniques and modern technology, all while providing attentive care to his patients.
To schedule a consultation for a breast lift or breast augmentation in Orlando, FL, call (407) 447-1628 or fill out our online contact form today.
