What Is the Difference Between Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift?
Many women choose breast enhancement cosmetic surgery to improve the appearance of their bust line. Two often confused plastic surgery procedures are commonly used to enhance the breast area, although the surgical techniques employed and results achieved are quite different. Women considering breast enhancement cosmetic surgery should discuss their appearance goals with a board certified plastic surgeon to ensure that the plastic surgery procedure selected will meet their goals.
Breast augmentation enlarges the breast to give it more fullness, volume and projection. A more voluptuous feminine breast can be created through breast implant surgery. Basically, breast augmentation involves the surgical implantation of a liquid filled sack. Different types of implants are available, including both sterile saline-filled implants and silicone gel-filled implants. While both are safe and effective, many women feel that silicone gel implants provide a more natural-feeling breast. Implants are frequently used to increase the size of the breast, but implants will also give smaller breasts a more rounded, fuller, more feminine appearance.
Breast lift is commonly used to reposition the placement of the breast to counter the sagging, stretching and loss of skin elasticity associated with aging, pregnancy and breast-feeding. In breast lift cosmetic surgery, excess skin is removed from the breast and the nipple and areola are lifted to a higher, more youthful position. Several incisions following the natural curve of the breast are typically made to remove excess skin, reposition and reshape the breast. Breast implants are often used in conjunction with a breast lift to improve the shape of the newly repositioned breasts.
A frank talk with your board-certified Cleveland plastic surgeon will help you determine whether breast augmentation or breast lift cosmetic surgery or a combination of the two is right for you.