Breast Reduction vs. Breast Lift: Which One Is Right for Me?
Genetics, hormonal changes, child-bearing, and time can all have an impact on the shape and fullness of your breasts. If you are unhappy with sagging breasts, a breast lift can do a lot for your confidence. If you notice that large breasts are putting pressure on your shoulders and back, you may prefer to undergo a breast reduction.
But before you make a decision, let’s take an in-depth look at what each one includes and what the difference is between the two.
What’s the Difference Between a Breast Lift and a Breast Reduction?
While the primary difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction has to do with the amount of tissue vs. the amount of skin removed, they have other differences as well.
Breast Lift
When you undergo a breast lift or mastopexy, your surgeon will remove excess skin and reshape the tissue, firming the tissue as your breasts are lifted. Because your breasts may have grown larger than they were before, you may find that you are a different cup size. However, after the procedure, your breasts will be firmer and higher.
Breast Reduction
Those who struggle with back and neck pain may find they are good candidates for breast reduction or reduction mammaplasty. Your surgeon will remove fatty tissue and glandular tissue. When the tissue is reduced, your surgeon will then remove the skin to reshape and lift your breasts.
Choosing the Best Procedure
It’s critical that you schedule a consultation so you can have an open and honest discussion about your current concerns and any pain that you may be suffering. Then, you’re surgeon can help you decide whether a breast lift or a breast reduction is the right choice for you.
If you’re unhappy with your breasts because you think they’re too small, a breast lift may not address the fundamental issue and a breast augmentation may need to be added to the surgery as well.
Breast Reduction Considerations
If the size of your breasts makes exercise difficult or if you have back and neck pain associated with the size and weight of your breasts, a breast reduction may be the best choice for you.
While these procedures are generally done on an outpatient basis, you will want to make sure that you are fully set up for aftercare. Have a friend or family member drive you to and from the procedure and make sure you are set up with everything you need at home.
Breast Lift Considerations
If your current breast size is to your satisfaction but you’re unhappy with loose skin and sagging breasts, you could be an excellent candidate for a successful breast lift.
This procedure can also be done on an outpatient basis, but you will need to be able to go home, rest and heal with a low level of activity following your procedure. Your new shape will be worth the effort!
Schedule A Consultation
Plastic Surgery Associates can help you make the best choice for your body and the goals you’re looking for.
Whether you seek a slimmer, firmer shape or need to reduce the pressure on your spine, a consultation with our team can help you understand the next step for your needs.
To schedule a consultation today, call our Grand Rapids office at 616-451-4500 or use our online scheduling form.
