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Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation: How to Tell Which Is Needed

Breast augmentation and breast lift are two procedures that can dramatically improve the appearance of your breasts — but in different ways. Determining the procedure that is best for you can be difficult without the help of a surgeon. The best way to choose the right breast procedure for you is to meet with a board certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Eric Pugash. In the meantime, here is some information from Vancouver plastic surgeon Dr. Pugash that may help you as you investigate your options.

Understanding Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation increases the size of small breasts through the placement of saline or silicone gel implants. It may be right for you if you answer “yes” to any of the following questions:

  • Do you want bigger or fuller breasts?
  • Are your breasts significantly smaller after pregnancy and nursing?
  • Is one breast noticeably larger than the other?

Although breast augmentation is performed almost exclusively to increase the size of the breasts placing breast implants can, in some cases, correct sagging. However, this is only the case if the sagging is mild and the nipples remain near the center of the breasts.

Understanding Breast Lift

Breast lift does not noticeably change the size of the breasts — but it does reposition sagging breasts higher on the chest wall for a perkier and more youthful look. Breast lift may be right for you if you answer “yes” to any of the following questions:

  • Do your breasts sag downward on your chest wall?
  • Do your nipples hang below the crease of your breast (where your breast meets your torso)?
  • Do your nipples point downward?

Breast lift removes excess skin and repositions the breast tissue higher on the chest. The nipples are raised and, if necessary, enlarged areolas are reduced.  It is important to understand that, while breast lift raises the nipples, it does not increase the fullness of the upper breast. For this reason Dr. Pugash usually places an implant when he carries out a breast lift.

Combining the Procedures

Breast augmentation and breast lift can be performed individually, or they may be combined. A combined breast augmentation-breast lift resolves breast sagging while increasing the size and fullness of the breasts simultaneously. If you want fuller and perkier breasts, this is likely the best solution for you.

To speak with a board certified plastic surgeon about your unique breast surgery needs, please contact Dr. Pugash by calling (604) 522-5199 or sending him an email.