What is the difference between a breast augmentation and a breast lift?

A breast augmentation is recommended for patients who desire an increase in breast cup size and fullness. This is achieved by placement of a breast implant. A breast lift (or mastopexy) is recommended for patients whose concern is breast sagging, and who do not want breast implants. The patient's stretched breast skin is removed, and the existing tissue is adjusted upward on the chest to a higher position. A breast lift does not substantially increase breast size. If a patient is concerned with both breast size and sagging, a combination of augmentation and mastopexy may be recommended.  more

A breast augmentation is a procedure that is recommended for patients who desire an increase in breast cup size and fullness. This is achieved by placement of a breast implant under the breast or pectoralis muscle. A breast lift or mastopexy is recommended for patients whose concern is sagging of the breast, and who do not want breast implants. The patient's stretched breast skin is removed, and the existing breast tissue is adjusted upward on the chest to a higher position which helps to improve fullness of the breast. A breast lift does not substantially increase breast size. If a patient is concerned about breast size and sagging, then a combination of breast augmentation and breast lift (mastopexy) may be recommended.  more

"This is a question that patients ask me all the time," says Houston Plastic Surgeon Dr. R. Lee Steely. According to Dr. Steely, breast augmentation increases only the volume of breasts. It will not move breasts closer together, lift droopy breasts or change the position of nipples. After augmentation, breasts are fuller and firmer with more projection. Alternatively, a breast lift raises the position of the nipple as well as the breast tissue. Excess skin is removed, or tightened and reshaped, giving the breast a higher, firmer, and perkier contour. So who is a good candidate for either? For breast augmentation, Dr. Steely notes, "Women with good skin elasticity, whose breasts do not sag, but who wish to have larger breasts will benefit the most from breast augmentation." "Breast implants can increase the volume, and improve the shape and firmness of breasts, as well as sharpening cleavage. However, sagging breasts will not be lifted and stretch marks will not be removed, but may be ...  more

In performing a breast lift, Dr. Steely aims for natural looking breasts that are as close to perfect proportional size and shape as possible, harmonizing with hips, shoulders, and waist for a totally satisfying look.  more