Breast Augmentation, Breast Augmentation with Lift, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction – What’s The Difference?

There are several surgical options available for enhancing or reshaping the breasts. Still, it can get confusing knowing which procedure to choose with so many different terms like breast augmentation, breast augmentation with lift, breast lift, and breast reduction. Despite sounding similar, all of these procedures serve unique purposes and tackle different concerns. By understanding the differences between each procedure, we can help you determine which option is right for you. Whether you're looking to enhance, lift, reshape, or reduce the appearance of your chest, we're here to give you a quick guide to help break down what each of these breast surgery options entails.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular procedures in the world of cosmetic enhancements for the improvement of the appearance of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. Many women opt for this surgery to increase their breast volume, restore fullness lost due to weight fluctuations or pregnancy, or create better symmetry between the breasts. This highly customizable procedure allows patients to choose from different implant types, sizes, and placements to achieve their desired results.

The surgery itself typically takes one to two hours under general anesthesia. Recovery time varies per patient, but most people are able to return to light activity within a few days and resume a normal routine within a few weeks. Swelling and tenderness are common initially but gradually subside. Long-term results can last for many years, with future implant replacements most likely needed.

What is Breast Augmentation with Lift?

Unlike breast augmentation by itself, pairing the procedure with a lift is perfect for those who want to increase the volume of their breasts and address sagging caused by lost elasticity due to aging, weight loss, pregnancy, or other factors. This procedure combines enhancing the size of the breasts with implants or fat transfer while simultaneously lifting and reshaping them for a more youthful, perky appearance.

During surgery, excess skin is removed, the breast tissue is repositioned, and implants are placed (or fat cells are reinjected if you get a fat transfer) to achieve the desired fullness. The size and placement of the incisions vary depending on how dramatic of a lift you go for. They can range from small incisions around the areola or armpits to more extensive techniques for greater sagging, which is typically a longer incision across the underside of the breast. Recovery is similar to breast augmentation alone, but there may be additional swelling or tightness due to the lift.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift (mastopexy) is performed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts without adding volume. It's an excellent choice for women who are satisfied with their natural breast size but want a younger, tighter look - like a facelift for your chest! Sagging skin is removed, and the surrounding tissue is tightened before the areolas and nipples are repositioned to create a perkier appearance.

Like breast augmentation with lift, the type of incision used depends on the degree of sagging. Skilled surgeons will do their best to strategically place the incisions to follow the natural lines of your body and make them less noticeable, though there are tons of treatments that can help to lessen the appearance of scarring if that is a concern. The results provide a lifted, more youthful breast shape that can last for many years with proper care and a stable weight.

What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is a bit different from the other procedures we've mentioned. Instead of adding volume or lifting the chest, this surgery is recommended for women who experience discomfort or pain due to excessive volume. Many women seek breast reductions to alleviate chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. It also helps to improve posture and enhance women's ability to participate in physical activities.

Like the previously mentioned procedures, breast reduction surgeries begin with incisions being made to remove excess tissue and reshape the breasts. Excess skin, fat, and tissue are removed from the breasts to create a more proportional size. Sometimes, the areola and nipple are also repositioned to match the new breast shape. Most patients find relief from physical strain and improved confidence to be well worth the few weeks of downtime, and the results can last up to a decade.