Breast Lift vs. Breast Implants: Which Procedure Is Right for You?
When considering breast enhancement, two of the most popular options available today are a breast lift and breast implants. While both can dramatically improve the appearance of your breasts, each targets specific concerns. How do you decide whether lifting, adding volume, or combining both treatments will give you the best results?
At Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center in Sandy Springs, our experts regularly guide women in Atlanta, Buckhead, and surrounding areas to the best procedure based on their individual goals. This detailed guide will help you clearly understand each procedure and decide confidently.
Understanding Breast Changes
The first step in choosing the right procedure is understanding why breast changes occur. Factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, gravity, and genetics can cause breasts to lose volume, shape, and elasticity over time. Recognizing exactly which changes you want to address can significantly clarify your decision.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift (mastopexy) focuses on reshaping and repositioning sagging breasts, restoring a youthful contour without significantly altering breast volume.
Breast Lift Treats:
- Sagging due to aging or pregnancy
- Nipples that point downward
- Excess skin and lost elasticity
- Breasts with sufficient volume that simply lack shape and firmness
How It Works:
Dr. Carmen Kavali or Dr. Teri Moak performs the breast lift by strategically placing incisions around the areola and possibly vertically down the breast to remove excess skin, reshape the underlying tissue, and reposition the nipple and areola. Implants are not required unless you desire additional fullness.
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants (augmentation) enhance breast size, volume, and shape but do not significantly correct sagging.
Breast Implants Treat:
- Small or underdeveloped breasts
- Volume loss after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight changes
- Desire for enhanced curves or cleavage
- Improved symmetry and proportions
Types of Breast Implants:
- Silicone: Natural-feeling implants preferred for their softness.
- Saline: Adjustable implants filled with sterile saltwater, offering customizable firmness and volume.
How It Works:
Your surgeon creates discreet incisions, usually hidden beneath the breast crease, through which the implants are placed. Implant placement options include above or below the chest muscle, tailored to your anatomy and desired outcome.
Breast Lift vs. Implants: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Breast Lift | Breast Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Restore shape and position | Add volume and enhance shape |
| Procedure | Surgical reshaping and lifting | Surgical placement of implants |
| Downtime | Approximately 1–2 weeks | Typically around 1 week |
| Scarring | Around nipple and vertical incision | Minimal incision hidden beneath breast |
| Volume Change | Minimal | Significant |
| Ideal Candidate | Sagging breasts with adequate volume | Small or volume-depleted breasts |
| Longevity | Long-lasting, varies with age | Durable, but implants may need revision |
Who Should Choose a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is ideal if:
- Your breasts have lost firmness and shape after childbirth or aging.
- You’re satisfied with your breast size but not their position or appearance.
- Your nipples point downward or fall below the breast crease.
- You seek a more youthful breast shape without added fullness.
Who Should Consider Breast Implants?
Breast implants are best if:
- Your main goal is increasing breast volume.
- Your breasts appear deflated or have reduced in size after pregnancy or weight loss.
- You have naturally small or uneven breasts.
- You desire a fuller and rounder look with enhanced cleavage.
Combining Procedures: Breast Lift with Implants
A popular choice among patients at Monarch Plastic Surgery is combining the two treatments into one procedure called an augmentation mastopexy. This comprehensive approach is perfect if you want to address both sagging and lack of volume simultaneously, delivering beautiful, lasting results with a single recovery period.
Common Questions Patients Ask
Will implants alone lift my breasts?
Breast implants add volume but provide only minimal lifting. Significant sagging typically requires a breast lift.
Does a breast lift reduce breast size?
Not significantly; it primarily reshapes and lifts existing tissue, but breasts might appear slightly smaller due to tightening.
Do implants last forever?
Most implants last 10–20 years or more, though revision may eventually be necessary.
What to Expect at Your Monarch Consultation
Your visit to Monarch Plastic Surgery in Sandy Springs includes:
- Comprehensive evaluation of breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and goals.
- Discussion of procedure details, implant types, and realistic outcomes.
- Detailed explanation of recovery, potential risks, and long-term expectations.
- Customized surgical planning tailored specifically to your desires and lifestyle.
Why Monarch Plastic Surgery?
Women throughout Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and Buckhead trust Monarch for:
- Board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in breast aesthetics.
- Expertise in advanced breast procedures with natural-looking outcomes.
- State-of-the-art surgical facilities prioritizing patient safety.
- Compassionate, personalized care from an all-female leadership team.
At Monarch Plastic Surgery, your satisfaction, safety, and confidence matter most.