Women today have many options when it comes to breast enhancement. Two of the most consistently popular procedures in America are breast lifts and breast augmentation. As a plastic surgeon in the Fort Worth area, I talk with many patients who are unsure which option is best for them. While both treatments improve the appearance of the breasts, they each solve different issues.
A private surgery consultation is the best way to determine which option is best for you. But if you’re just beginning your research in the world of plastic surgery, here are the basics behind each procedure.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is right for you if your main goal is to add feminine volume. The procedure works by placing breast implants either behind your chest muscle or directly under the breast tissue, increasing the overall size of the breasts. Breast implants come in many shapes, materials, and textures, allowing you to customize the surgery to your liking. Some patients choose this procedure to correct a “deflated” look after pregnancy, while others select it to even out asymmetrical breasts.
It is important to remember, however, that breast augmentation does not address sagging or stretched out breast skin. Breast augmentation isn’t recommended for those who want to “fill up” drooping breasts because the extra volume of the breast implant will just make a droopy breast even saggier.
What Is a Breast Lift?
Breast lift surgery is a straightforward procedure that corrects sagging breasts. It tightens breast tissue by removing loose skin and placing the breast higher along the chest wall.
Many issues can cause breasts to sag, such as pregnancy, weight loss, or simple aging. A breast lift addresses these problems by minimizing signs of aging and restoring a more youthful appearance.
Because no implants are involved in a breast lift, the procedure doesn’t add volume or increase size. In fact, many women report their breasts looking slightly smaller after surgery due to the removal of unwanted skin and tissue.
Combining Procedures
Major body changes rarely affect the breasts in only one way. Most women experience both sagging and loss of volume together—which can be a hard blow to personal image and self-esteem. In these situations, a breast augmentation and a breast lift can be combined together to restore perkiness while adding youthful volume.
This approach produces more transformative, noticeable results while only requiring a single surgery date and recovery period. Browse our before-and-after gallery to see examples of real patient results.
By knowing more about your breast enhancement options, you can choose the perfect procedure for your goals. If you’re interested in a breast lift or breast augmentation in the Fort Worth area, request a consultation online or call (817) 442-1236.