A common questions we get is should I get my breast lifted and augmented at the same time? And the answer really comes down to the degree of ptosis, or sagginess, of the breast. Sometimes, one surgery is beneficial for giving your breasts renewed lift and fullness. If you have mildly droopy or deflated-looking breasts, a combined breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation (implants) can give your breasts a more youthful position and attractively increase their volume. Determining if you are a candidate for a single-staged augmentation-mastopexy should be determined by your board-certified plastic surgeon. Keep reading to explore the benefits of combining both of these plastic surgery procedures and to understand the advantages of each.
What is a Breast Augmentation?
During a breast augmentation, silicone or saline implants are placed under the skin within the breast tissue to increase the shape, projection, and volume of the breasts, specifically volume of the upper pole. Women who opt for this type of surgery are typically looking to address:
• Asymmetrical breasts.
• Breasts that have lost their shape due to pregnancy, weight loss, aging, hormonal changes, or nursing.
• Breasts that have been affected by surgery.
• Breasts that are too small.
What is a Breast Lift?
During a breast lift, excess fat, skin, and tissue are removed in order to firm and raise saggy breasts. A breast lift does not increase the size of the breasts or significantly increases the volume of the upper pole, but brings the breast tissue and nipple back into its youthful anatomical position. Women who choose a breast lift are looking to address:
• Breasts that have been stretched due to weight loss, aging, gravity or pregnancy.
• Asymmetrical breasts.
• Breasts whose breast tissue, or nipples are below the fold of their breast or point downward.
While each procedure proves beneficial on its own, there are many benefits to combining breast augmentation and a breast lift. Here’s why this procedure may be right for you.
Benefits of one surgery versus two
There are candidates for single-staged augmentation-lift and candidates for a two-staged augmentation-lift. Mild sagginess of the breast are the ideal candidate for a single-staged procedure whereas if you have really saggy breast or need a reduction with your lift, you may be best served getting a breast lift first, and the augmentation 6 months later.
One Surgery, One Recovery
By combining the procedures, you’ll only have one period of downtime. This means you only have to take time off from work, exercise, and daily activities once.
Saves Money
Your surgery will be less expensive, since you’ll only be paying for one surgery instead of two separate ones. Costs including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesiologist’s fee, facility fees, medication, medical tests and surgical bra will only be one-time expenses.
Long-Lasting Results
A breast lift with implants can often last a lifetime. Keep in mind, as you age, your breast will continue to age with you, but should have much more staying power than prior to your surgery. However, if you’re planning to have children, you should be aware that a breast lift with implants may not be one-and-done. Pregnancy may affect your breasts’ size and shape, requiring breast modification surgery in the future.
Schedule a Consultation
Combining breast implants with a breast lift is a great procedure for improving breast volume and shape, as well as restoring your confidence. Dr. Rhett Willis, of Charlottesville Plastic Surgery, is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who combines cutting-edge techniques with compassion to give your breasts a look you’ll love. Complete this handy online form and schedule your consultation today!
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