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Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation: How to Tell Which One Is Needed

Mature woman wearing a bra and looking away from the cameraAs a result of pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or the natural process of aging, breasts can show signs of volume loss. This can ultimately lead to a sagging effect. If you are experiencing this concern and are considering a cosmetic procedure to help restore your breasts to a more youthful volume and shape, there are two options from which to choose: breast lift surgery and breast augmentation. At the Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, plastic surgeons Brian Braithwaite, MD, FACS and Lorri Cobbins, MD, FACS perform both techniques, and they can determine which one can give you the results you desire during your initial consultation. Additionally, there are a few ways of determining in advance which method may offer you the best possible outcome.

Breast augmentation is designed to increase the size, improve the shape, and enhance the symmetry of breasts. If your breasts have minimal to moderate ptosis (sagginess), and you desire a larger bust, breast augmentation alone may help you achieve this goal. However, if you are experiencing more significant sagging but are happy with the general size of your breasts, breast lift surgery may be a better option for you.

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is designed to reduce excess skin and tighten the remaining tissue to create firmer, more youthful-looking breasts. This procedure can also reduce the size of areolas that have become enlarged over time. Breast lift surgery typically won’t change the size of the breasts, though in some cases the bust may be a little bit smaller than prior to the operation. If you determine a breast lift can give you the best outcome but you still desire a larger size, breast implants can be added to the operation for more comprehensive benefits.

Both cosmetic procedures can offer excellent results when performed by experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins. If you would like more information about breast lift surgery, breast augmentation, or any other breast surgery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our providers, please contact us today.