Breast Lift vs Breast Implants – What’s the Difference?
Breast augmentations and breast lifts are some of the most common cosmetic surgeries, but the two are not the same. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between a breast lift and breast implants, as well as how to decide which is best for you.
Breast Lift Options
A breast lift is designed to correct drooping or sagging of the breasts. This is common in older women whose skin is no longer as tight as it used to be. You may also experience breast sagging after significant weight loss or after giving birth. The breast lift procedure cuts away excess skin and tightens the skin that remains, restoring perkiness and fullness.
Your doctor will start with a small incision following the line of your nipple. Depending on the amount of sagging you wish to correct, you may also need a vertical incision from the nipple to the crease under your breast. In the most extreme cases, an incision along the crease is also required.
In most cases, scarring is minimal, and you’ll be able to cover up the scars under your bra or clothing. If your surgery required vertical or crease incisions, you’ll have a bit more scarring, but that can be a small price to pay for such a boost to your self-esteem.
Breast Implant Surgery
Breast implants, or breast augmentations, involve inserting fluid-filled spheres into your breasts to increase their size. Depending on your needs and preferences, these spheres can be filled with a saline solution, which is the more affordable option, or with silicone, creating a more natural look and feel.
Typically, your surgeon will make an incision around your nipple to insert the silicone sphere, although incisions under the armpit are also common. After inserting the silicone sphere, your doctor will fill it to the appropriate size, then seal the incisions.
For most women, the scarring left after the fact is minimal and can be hidden under your bra. For armpit incisions, you may notice a bit more scarring, and this is slightly more difficult to hide, particularly if you have a penchant for wearing tank tops.
How to Decide Which Procedure Is Right for You
The right procedure for you depends on how much you wish to modify your breasts. If you simply want to restore them to their former glory, a breast lift will likely be all that you need. If, on the other hand, you wish to increase the size of your breasts, you’ll need implants. A breast lift alone cannot change the size of your breasts, only tighten the skin to make them appear fuller. In some cases, women choose to have both a lift and implants, so that the breasts are larger and perkier.
Top Breast Plastic Surgeon in Houston TX
For all your plastic surgery needs in Houston and Conroe, Texas call (713)667-4600 today and schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael J. Streitmann.