Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift: What's the Difference?

Filed in archive Breast Augmentation , Breast Lift , Procedures on April 14, 2010

Breast augmentation, also called mammaplasty, is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure for changing the size or appearance of the breast. It can be performed to restore density to the breast after pregnancy or weight loss or to achieve certain a physical aesthetic, to create greater symmetry and balance, or to reconstruct a breast after mastectomy or injury.

Often, women have breast augmentation to enlarge small breasts. Although breast augmentation changes the size of the breasts, it will not correct for sagging. Breast augmentation is an extremely personal choice, and ideal goal for appearance is highly subjective.

Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a plastic surgery procedure that raises and firms sagging breasts by removing extra skin and tightening the remaining skin it to improve the breast's shape and elevation. A breast lift can also reduce the stretched appearance of the areola, which can sometimes occur over time and with age.

Breast lift surgery does not, however, round out the upper part of the breast or change the overall size of the breast significantly.

Breast lift surgery can be done as a stand alone procedure, or can be performed at the time of other breast augmentation surgery.

In future posts I'll discuss the different approaches to breast augmentation and breast lift surgery as well as the various implant products available.

On a personal note, please remember that often times the grass can appear greener on the other side: We often want what we don't have...and then, when we finally get it, it's not what we expected. It can be tempting to get the double D implants when you've gone through life with only AA-sized breasts. Remember, ladies, that unless you're an exotic performer, going for the most extreme change can carry consequences to your self esteem, overall health, and to the perception other people have of you socially, professionally, and personally.

And, as with any surgery, it's best to do exhaustive research in order to make the most informed decision regarding these plastic surgery procedures.