Breast augmentation is a popular procedure to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. But sometimes, a breast lift may also be necessary to achieve the desired result. In this blog post, we’ll explore when it’s necessary to have a breast lift in addition to your breast implants, and how this combination can give you the best possible results. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthias Solomon provides breast lift and breast augmentation to patients in Dallas, Frisco, Sherman, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Understanding Breast Implants and Breast Lifts
Breast implants and breast lifts are two different procedures that aim to improve the appearance of breasts. Breast implants involve inserting silicone or saline-filled implants to increase breast size and improve symmetry, while a breast lift involves removing excess skin and tightening breast tissue to raise the position of the breasts.
Breast implants can be placed above or below the muscle, depending on the desired results. In contrast, breast lifts involve the removal of excess skin and tissue to reshape the breasts. Women with sagging or drooping breasts may opt for a breast lift to restore a more youthful appearance.
Both procedures can be performed separately or together to achieve optimal results. In some cases, a breast lift may be recommended in addition to breast implants to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing outcome.
It’s important to understand that breast implants do not address sagging or drooping breasts. Therefore, a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome. On the other hand, if you are happy with the position of your breasts, breast implants alone may suffice.
Ultimately, the decision to have breast implants with or without a breast lift should be made with the guidance of a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your unique needs and desired outcome. They will consider your breast size, shape, symmetry, nipple position, and skin elasticity when making recommendations for your breast surgery.
Factors That Determine Whether a Breast Lift is Necessary
While breast implants can provide significant enhancement to breast shape and size, they may not address certain issues that a breast lift can correct. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether a breast lift is necessary in addition to breast implants.
One major factor is the degree of breast sagging or drooping. Breast implants can add volume to the breast, but they do not necessarily address breast ptosis or sagging. If the nipples are positioned below the breast crease, a breast lift may be needed to reposition them higher on the breast mound.
Another factor to consider is the elasticity of the skin. If the skin has lost its elasticity due to factors such as aging or weight loss, breast implants alone may not provide the desired outcome. In this case, a breast lift can help tighten and reshape the breast tissue, providing a more youthful appearance.
Additionally, the size and shape of the implants chosen can affect the need for a breast lift. If larger implants are selected, they may add weight and cause additional sagging, necessitating a breast lift. Likewise, if the chosen implants do not match the shape of the natural breast, a lift may be necessary to achieve a more balanced appearance.
It’s important to note that not all patients will require a breast lift in addition to breast implants. Each patient is unique, and the need for a breast lift will depend on individual factors. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help assess each patient’s specific situation and determine the best course of action for optimal results.
Indications That You Need a Breast Lift with Breast Implants
While some women can achieve their desired breast size and shape with breast implants alone, others may require a breast lift to achieve optimal results. Here are some indications that you may need a breast lift in addition to your breast implants:
- Sagging breasts: If your breasts have sagged due to age, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, you may need a breast lift to correct the sagging. Breast implants alone may add volume, but they won’t lift sagging breasts.
- Nipple position: If your nipples are pointing downwards or below the breast crease, a breast lift may be necessary to reposition them higher on the breast mound. Breast implants alone won’t address the nipple position.
- Excess skin: If you have excess skin on your breasts, a breast lift may be needed to remove the excess skin and tighten the remaining skin. This will prevent your breasts from looking deflated and stretched after breast augmentation.
- Breast asymmetry: If you have asymmetrical breasts, a breast lift can help to create more symmetrical and balanced breasts. Breast implants alone may exacerbate the asymmetry.
It’s important to note that every woman’s breast anatomy and cosmetic goals are unique, so what works for one woman may not work for another. Only a board-certified plastic surgeon can evaluate your breasts and recommend the best course of action for your specific needs.
Alternatives to Breast Lifts for Optimal Results with Breast Implants
While breast lifts can help provide better results in certain cases, they may not be necessary for everyone seeking breast augmentation. Some alternatives to breast lifts that may provide optimal results with breast implants include:
- High-profile implants: High-profile implants have a narrow base and a larger projection, creating a lifted and fuller appearance. They can provide a more youthful and perkier look without the need for a breast lift.
- Fat transfer: A fat transfer involves using liposuction to remove excess fat from one area of the body and injecting it into the breasts to add volume and lift. This procedure can help improve the appearance of sagging breasts without the need for a breast lift.
- Combined augmentation and lift: In some cases, a combination of breast augmentation and lift can be performed at the same time. This approach can help achieve both increased volume and lift to the breasts.
It’s important to note that while these alternatives may provide optimal results for some patients, they may not be suitable for everyone. It’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best option for your unique needs and goals.
Consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to Determine the Best Option for You
At the end of the day, the best way to determine whether or not you need a breast lift with your breast implants is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They will be able to evaluate your breasts and discuss your desired results with you to come up with the best possible plan for your unique situation.
During your consultation, the plastic surgeon will be able to assess the current state of your breasts, including skin elasticity, nipple position, and overall breast shape. They will also take into account your personal goals and preferences for your breast augmentation.
If it is determined that a breast lift is necessary to achieve your desired results, the surgeon will discuss the procedure in detail with you, including any risks and potential complications.
However, if a breast lift is not necessary, the surgeon may recommend alternatives such as a different type or size of implant, or a different surgical approach altogether.
It’s important to remember that breast augmentation is a highly personalized procedure, and the best option for one person may not be the best option for another. By working closely with a qualified plastic surgeon, you can ensure that you receive the optimal treatment for your unique body type and aesthetic goals.
Schedule a Consultation with Frisco, Texas Plastic Surgeon Dr. Solomon
For more information on Plastic Surgery and Non-Surgical Medical Spa Procedures and Treatments in Frisco, Texas, please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Matthias Solomon by clicking here or calling 214-983-0213.
Serving patients in Frisco, Dallas, McKinney, Plano, Sherman, Highland park, University Park, Preston Hollow, Prosper, Allen, Southlake, Denton, Irving, Flower mound, Little Elm, Fort Worth, Texas and surrounding areas.
