Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction: Which Procedure is Right for You?
When considering breast surgery, it’s important to understand the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction, as each procedure addresses specific concerns. A breast lift (mastopexy) is designed to lift sagging breasts for a more youthful, elevated appearance. On the other hand, a breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) reduces the size of large, heavy breasts while also lifting and reshaping them.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at each procedure to help you determine which might best suit your cosmetic goals.
Breast Lift: Elevate and Rejuvenate Your Natural Shape
A breast lift is ideal for women who are satisfied with the size of their breasts but want to address sagging, asymmetry, or loss of volume. The procedure focuses on repositioning the breast tissue and nipple to a higher position for a perkier and more youthful contour. This can be especially beneficial after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss, which often leads to sagging or deflation in the upper pole—the upper portion or top half of the breast, above the nipple and areola—of the breast. Techniques such as the Pocket Lift, a procedure pioneered by Dr. Cassileth, provide a comprehensive lift with minimal scarring, improving the breast’s projection without altering its size.
For women desiring subtle volume enhancement, a Breast Lift with Fat Transfer can add natural fullness by using their own fat, eliminating the need for implants. If restoring lost volume is a primary concern, combining a Breast Lift with Implants may be the ideal solution, providing a fuller and more elevated appearance. In this case, Breast Lift with Implants combines the benefits of lifting the breast tissue while increasing the size or restoring lost volume. This dual approach is often ideal for women who have experienced a significant loss of volume after pregnancy or weight fluctuations and want to both reshape and enhance their breasts.
Additionally, some women may opt for less invasive options, such as a No-Scar or Circumareolar Lift, which focuses on improving the breast shape without extensive incisions. These techniques are best for patients with minimal sagging and good nipple positioning, as they offer a subtle lift with nearly invisible scarring.
Breast Reduction: Relieve Discomfort and Achieve Balance
A breast reduction is a better option for women who are struggling with the physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns of overly large breasts. Common issues include back, neck, or shoulder pain, difficulty exercising, and skin irritation under the breast folds. By removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the breasts, a reduction reduces the size of the breasts and lifts them for a more proportional, youthful shape.
Procedures such as Vertical Breast Reduction or a procedure called the Pocket Lift Breast Reduction created by Dr. Cassileth provide comprehensive solutions by removing excess tissue and elevating the breast position. These techniques also help retain natural upper pole fullness without breast implants, ensuring a more balanced and lifted profile. A reduction is ideal for women seeking relief from the strain of large breasts while achieving a more flattering and harmonious silhouette.
Which Procedure is Right for You?
The choice between a breast lift and a breast reduction depends on your individual goals and physical concerns. If you’re happy with your breast size but want to address sagging, a breast lift may be the better option. However, if you want to reduce breast size to alleviate discomfort while also lifting and reshaping the breasts, a breast reduction may be more appropriate. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Lisa Cassileth, who specializes in breast surgery, can help determine the best procedure for your needs and ensure the most natural and aesthetically pleasing results.
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Dr. Cassileth is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a focus on breast procedures. Known for her forward-thinking approach, she has developed several advanced techniques that deliver superior results compared to conventional methods. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Cassileth to receive personalized advice and answers to all your questions about breast lift and breast reduction surgery. Contact us today to begin your journey toward achieving your ideal breast shape and size.
1ASPS. Breast Lift. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-lift. Accessed September 10, 2024.
2ASPS. Breast Reduction. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/reconstructive-procedures/breast-reduction. Accessed September 10, 2024.
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