Breast enhancement has long been the most popular plastic surgery procedure, but there are several surgical options available depending on what you would like to achieve. Two of the most popular procedures are breast augmentation (enlargement) and breast lift (repositioning and reshaping). Each procedure offers its own set of advantages, so it’s important to understand the difference between the two.
If you want larger breasts, then augmentation is the procedure for you. There are several decisions to be made regarding incision location, implant placement above or below the muscle, and implant to be used. Currently, silicone implants have a variety of different shapes – although all are round, some have significantly more projection for the narrower breast and some are wider to fill up a more generous breast. There are also several consistencies of gel available to reach your individual goals. Your plastic surgeon can help walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of each. It will also be important to discuss what size and shape you are hoping to achieve, what activities you enjoy and what your job requirements are to help make the best selection for your breast enhancement. Experienced surgeons look at all factors while guiding you along this journey to ensure you are pleased with the final result.
A breast lift can help correct drooping caused by age, weight, loss of breast volume, and changes following child bearing. There are several different techniques for breast lifts to reposition the breast and give it a better shape. Sometimes the loss of tissue is so great additional volume may be required. This would combine the augmentation with the lift. How much you need of one or the other depends on the amount of breast volume, skin, and the degree of droop you have. A larger implant used for the augmentation may require less of a lift. A smaller implant used may require more of a lift to center the nipple on the front of the breast mound.
Breast augmentations and lifts each have their unique advantages and disadvantages. However, a patient with a modest amount of droop may be able to be corrected with just an implant placed into the pocket. There are special techniques that allow for more fill of the lower portion of the breast. to improve areas where you may have less tissue naturally.
When it comes to your appearance, you want to make sure you are in the very best hands. Dr. Jeffrey Poulter is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and proven skill in the full range of cosmetic procedures. With his 30+ years of experience, he can provide solutions that will help keep you looking and feeling your best.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Poulter today or call our office at (309) 663-1222 or Toll Free at (888) 841-4108 and get on the road to looking and feeling your best.