When it comes to enhancing your breasts, there are two main options to consider: breast lift and breast augmentation. While both procedures can help improve the appearance of your bustline, they serve different purposes and produce different results. Understanding the differences between these procedures can help you determine which one is right for you.
We offer breast lift and augmentation procedures at SpaMedica, Toronto’s leading cosmetic surgery clinic. Our team of experienced plastic surgeons can help you achieve your desired results while ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the entire process. But before you decide, let’s closely examine these two procedures.
When to Choose a Breast Lift?
A breast lift procedure, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that aims to raise and reshape sagging breasts. This is often due to aging, pregnancy, or fluctuations in weight. Other factors, such as genetics and breastfeeding, can also contribute to breast sagging.
Excess skin is removed during the procedure, and the remaining tissue is lifted to create a more youthful and perky appearance. The nipple and areola may also be repositioned to a higher, more natural position.
Types of Breast Lifts
There are four types of breast lift procedures, depending on the extent of sagging and the desired results:
- Circumareolar Lift: Also known as a “donut lift,” this procedure involves removing excess skin only around the areola. It is suitable for mild cases of breast sagging.
- Vertical Lift: Sometimes known as a lollipop lift, this technique involves making an incision around the areola and down to the breast crease in a lollipop shape. It suits moderate sagging with less scarring than a wise pattern lift.
- Wise Pattern Lift: Also known as an “anchor lift,” this procedure involves removing excess skin both around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the inframammary fold. This technique is suitable for severe cases of sagging.
- A Crescent Lift: This is a minor variation of the lollipop lift. It involves making an incision on top of the upper half of the areola and removing a crescent-shaped piece of tissue to create a more subtle lift.
Procedure and Recovery
A breast lift procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 2-4 hours to complete. After the procedure, you will need to wear a supportive bra for several weeks to help with healing and maintain your new breast shape.
Most patients can return to work within a week, but avoiding strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks is recommended. Swelling and bruising are common after a breast lift surgery, but they should subside within a few weeks.
Breast Lift Benefits and Risks
A breast lift surgery can improve your breasts’ shape, size, and position. It can also help boost self-confidence and self-image. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved, such as scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. Discussing these risks with your plastic surgeon before undergoing the procedure is essential.
When to Choose Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation, also known as Breast Implant Surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the size and fullness of your breasts. This is done by placing implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles.
Types of Breast Implants
At SpaMedica, we offer two types of breast implants:
- Saline: These implants are filled with sterile salt water and provide a uniform shape, firmness, and feel.
- Silicone: These implants are filled with silicone gel, providing a more natural look and feel than saline implants.
- Gummy bear: These implants are filled with a highly cohesive silicone gel, giving them a firmer and more natural shape.
Procedure and Recovery
Breast augmentation procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. After the procedure, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days. Most patients can return to work within a week, but avoiding strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks is recommended.
Breast Augmentation Benefits and Risks
Breast augmentation can help increase your breast size, improve symmetry, and boost self-confidence. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved, such as infection, implant rupture, and changes in nipple sensation. Discussing these risks with your plastic surgeon beforehand is crucial.
Breast Lift vs Breast Implants
Deciding on breast lift vs augmentation can be overwhelming, but understanding your goals and expectations can help you make the right choice. Some of the factors to consider include:
| Breast Lift | Breast Implants | |
| When to Consider | Sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations; Nipples that point downward or sit below the breast crease; Loss of fullness in the upper part of your breasts | Desire for larger and fuller breasts; Asymmetrical breasts; Flat or small chest size |
| Main Result | Raises and reshapes sagging breasts | Increases breast size and fullness |
| How It’s Performed | A breast lift surgery involves removing excess skin and reshaping breast tissue | Augmentation involves placing implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles |
| Recovery Time | A breast lift may require more time to heal due to the incisions and removal of excess skin. | Breast augmentation typically has a shorter recovery time than breast lift. |
| Benefits | More youthful and perky breasts, improved shape and symmetry, minimal scarring | Increased breast size, improved fullness and projection, improved self-confidence. |
| Risks | Scarring, changes in nipple sensation or breast asymmetry. | Infection, implant rupture or leakage, changes in nipple sensation. |
| Cost in Canada | Starts at $11,999 | Starts at $11,999 |
Ultimately, the best procedure for you will depend on your goals and expectations. Discussing these with a qualified plastic surgeon can help you make an informed decision that is right for you.
So, make sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon at SpaMedica before deciding on a breast lift or augmentation. They can help you understand each procedure’s risks, benefits, and expected outcomes and guide you toward the best option for your unique needs.
Can You Get A Breast Lift With A Breast Augmentation?
Yes, it is possible to combine a breast lift with a breast augmentation. This combination procedure is known as an augmentation mastopexy and can provide more significant improvements in both volume and shape.
During this procedure, your plastic surgeon will first lift the breast, removing excess skin and reshaping the breasts. Then, they will place implants to add volume and fullness to the breasts. This combined approach can help achieve a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing breast appearance.
However, it is essential to note that combining these procedures also increases the risks involved. Discussing all potential risks with your plastic surgeon before undergoing this combination procedure is crucial.
Choosing The Right Procedure For You
When considering a breast lift or augmentation, it is essential to remember that every person’s body and goals are unique. Discussing your options with a qualified plastic surgeon can help you understand the risks and benefits of each procedure and make an informed decision that aligns with your desires.
At SpaMedica, our team of experienced plastic surgeons can assess your needs and recommend the best action to achieve your desired results. So, whether you are looking to enhance breast size, correct asymmetry, or improve sagging, we can help guide you toward the correct procedure for you.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards feeling confident and comfortable in your skin.
