Breast lifts and breast augmentations are two of the most popular cosmetic surgeries today. While these two procedures can be carried out separately, many patients decide to have them both done at once in order to enhance the final results. If you have recently begun exploring your options for improving the aesthetics of your breasts, then take a look at exactly what each of these procedures entail and when patients may want to consider combining them.
Breast Augmentations
A breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) utilizes breast implants to alter the size, shape, and balance of a patient’s breasts. There are a variety of instances in which a breast augmentation is a great option including a loss of volume after pregnancy or fluctuations in one’s weight. Patients with breasts that are two different sizes can also undergo this procedure in order to achieve a balanced look. Depending on the materials that are used, the FDA suggests that women have their breast implants checked with an MRI every 2 to 4 years.
Breast Lifts
Various factors throughout a woman’s life will result in changes to her breast’s position and shape. In order to alter these two things, many women opt for a breast lift (mastopexy). Unlike breast augmentation that uses implants to change the size and shape of breasts, a breast lift involves the manipulation of soft tissue to change their position and shape. Factors such as pregnancies, breastfeeding, and changes to one’s weight can all contribute to the loss of elasticity and firmness of the breasts. The results of a breast lift will be determined by the patient’s lifestyle, changes to their weight, and genetics.
The Benefits of Combining Breast Lifts and Breast Augmentations
The cosmetic needs of patients change on a case-by-case basis, and this means that there is no single type or style of cosmetic surgery that is right for everyone. Instead, patients should think about multiple surgeries carried out at once in order to achieve their ideal look. For women that would like a breast lift, a breast augmentation done at the same time may help to further improve the position of the breasts and make up for any tissue that is removed.
The Ideal Candidate
Patients that have realistic expectations for their cosmetic surgery are going to have the highest rate of satisfaction with the results. This is why all cosmetic surgeries begin with one or more consultations in order to get a good idea about exactly what the patient hopes to accomplish from the procedure. While these treatments are very effective in most cases, there are some issues that may need to be treated first. The ideal candidate must be physically healthy and have breasts that have fully developed. It is also important to remember that some women must have these two surgeries carried out separately depending on issues such as how much tissue must be removed.
If you’re interested in combining a breast lift and breast augmentation, Nuance Cosmetic Surgery can help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kenneth Sumida.