Breast augmentation and breast lifts are two of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, and they are often combined for optimal results. While breast implants enhance volume and shape, a breast lift (mastopexy) addresses sagging, providing a more youthful contour. The combination of these procedures can give patients both the fullness they desire and a perkier, lifted breast profile.
Breast implants with a lift, also known as augmentation-mastopexy, is a procedure that simultaneously enhances the size and shape of the breasts while lifting them to a higher, more youthful position. This dual approach is ideal for women who want to correct sagging while also adding volume.
This combination surgery is ideal for women who:
Restores Youthful Contours: The lift portion of the surgery corrects sagging, restoring a youthful silhouette. When combined with implants, it can provide a more dramatic improvement than either procedure alone.
Single Recovery Period: By combining the two procedures, patients undergo one surgery and one recovery period, minimizing downtime compared to having each procedure separately.
The breast augmentation with a lift procedure generally involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety.
Incisions: The surgeon makes incisions to perform the lift and place the implants. The type of incision depends on the degree of sagging and the desired result. The most common types of incisions are:
Lift and Reshaping: The surgeon removes excess skin, reshapes the breast tissue, and repositions the nipples to create a more lifted, youthful look.
Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and the breasts are wrapped in dressings and a surgical bra to support healing.
Immediate Post-Op: Patients typically experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Recovery Timeline: Most patients can return to light activities within a week and resume regular activities, including exercise, after 4-6 weeks.
Long-Term Care: It’s important to avoid strenuous activities or lifting for at least six weeks. You’ll also need to wear a support bra to help the healing process and maintain your new breast shape.
Expected Results
Combining breast implants with a lift delivers immediate results in both breast size and position. After the initial swelling subsides, the full effect of the surgery will be visible. Patients can enjoy:
1. What’s the difference between a breast lift and implants?
A breast lift corrects sagging and reshapes the breast, while implants add volume and enhance the size. When combined, these procedures offer both size enhancement and a lifted appearance.
2. Will a breast lift with implants leave scars?
Yes, as with all surgeries, there will be scarring. However, the surgeon will make incisions in areas that are typically hidden or fade with time. Following your surgeon’s post-op care instructions can help minimize scarring.
3. How do I know if I need a lift in addition to implants?
If you have sagging breasts (ptosis), simply adding implants may not achieve your desired results. A consultation with your surgeon will help determine whether a lift is necessary to address sagging and give you the look you want.
4. Can I choose the size of my implants?
Yes, during your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your goals and help you select the appropriate implant size to match your body proportions and aesthetic preferences.
5. How long will the results last?
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and the natural aging process will continue. However, the results of the procedure can last for many years. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help prolong the longevity of your results.
6. How painful is the recovery process?
While some discomfort is expected, it is typically manageable with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report that the discomfort lessens significantly after the first few days.
7. When can I expect to see the final results?
While the initial results will be visible immediately after surgery, swelling and healing will continue for several weeks. Final results can typically be seen within 3-6 months.
Conclusion
Breast implants with a lift offer an ideal solution for women looking to enhance their breast size while correcting sagging for a youthful, perkier look. By combining the two procedures, patients can achieve fuller, more proportionate breasts and enjoy the benefits of a single recovery period. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon is key to achieving the best results tailored to your specific goals and anatomy.
