Considering cosmetic breast surgery is an exciting journey, but choosing between breast augmentation and breast lift can spark many questions. At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery in Coralville, IA, patients receive expert guidance to pick the procedure that best matches their body and personal goals, so each outcome is as unique as the individual.
Understanding the Core Goals
- Breast Augmentation: This surgery increases breast size and fullness using saline or silicone implants. It is the top choice for those who desire enhanced volume, improved symmetry, or a more balanced silhouette.
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts, a lift removes excess skin and tightens breast tissue for a perkier, more youthful contour. This option suits those seeking firmer breasts after aging, pregnancy, or weight changes, without increasing cup size.
Some patients opt for a combination of both procedures to achieve added volume and lifted shape in one surgery, especially after significant changes like pregnancy.
Ideal Candidates for Each Surgery
- Augmentation: Best suited for individuals with naturally small breasts, volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss, asymmetry, or who simply wish for a larger size. Good skin elasticity is important for optimal aesthetic results.
- Lift: Perfect for those with sagging, elongated breasts, stretched skin, or downward-pointing nipples. Lift restores breast position and firmness but does not significantly increase volume; those happy with their size but seeking a youthful look find this ideal.
- Combination: Candidates hoping to correct both sagging and size concerns often benefit from combining augmentation and lift.
The Procedure and Recovery Experience
- Breast Augmentation: Involves the placement of implants through small incisions (under the breast, armpit, or around the areola). Surgery takes about an hour, with swelling subsiding in 1–2 weeks and results visible in 4–6 months. Recovery includes avoiding strenuous activity for 6 weeks and wearing a support bra for comfort.
- Breast Lift: Involves removing excess skin and tightening tissue, sometimes repositioning the areola for symmetry. Results are usually visible immediately, with most swelling resolving in 2 weeks. A support bra is worn, and strenuous exercise is avoided for 6 weeks. Patients typically return to light activities within a week.
- Combined Procedures: May involve longer surgical time and slightly extended recovery than individual surgeries, but provide transformative results for patients seeking comprehensive changes.
Visualization with Crisalix 3D Imaging
Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery empowers patients to envision their potential results using Crisalix 3D Imaging, an innovative tool that simulates both breast lift and augmentation outcomes. By previewing options side-by-side, patients make informed decisions, feeling confident in their personalized surgical plan.
Explore the details and see 3D simulations:
Take the Next Step: Schedule a Consultation
Whatever your cosmetic goals, Dr. Kahlil Andrews and the Coralville team are here to offer compassionate advice, expert surgical care, and proven results. Schedule a personalized consultation to discuss breast augmentation, breast lift, or both, and discover just how beautiful your future can look with help from advanced Crisalix imaging.Contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery in Coralville, IA, today for your one-on-one consultation, where your confidence and satisfaction are the top priorities!
