When one hears the words breast surgery, they automatically think about augmentation, which involves the addition of implants to enlarge and enhance the breasts. However, this umbrella term refers to the four major procedures available—augmentation, lift, reduction, and reconstruction—each with its own purpose and candidacy requirements. When determining which breast surgery is the right fit for your frame, it’s important to understand the differences between the procedures before you consult with your surgeon.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation remains one of the five most-performed cosmetic procedures in the nation, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Between 2019 and 2020, more than 480,000 augmentations were completed. This surgery is so popular because it completely enhances one’s breast shape, size, and appearance using breast implants or fat transfer.
The ideal candidates for this typically aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding, nor looking to do so in the near future. Breasts should be fully developed, meaning patients are older than 25.
If you feel your breasts are too small or are concerned about how they’ve changed with age, pregnancy, or weight loss, breast augmentation may be the answer. It can also help those who feel their breasts are asymmetrical, have an elongated shape, or the upper part appears empty.
If interested in a breast augmentation, a surgeon will discuss shape, composition, surface, and profile during an initial consultation. This meeting will help determine the best fit for your frame, ensuring you maintain a natural appearance, while gaining the breasts of your dreams.
Breast Lift
Most confuse augmentations and lifts, assuming the two words mean the same. However, a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, simply raises your breast without adding an implant. This removes excess skin and tightens surrounding tissue to contour your breast shape.
It’s the perfect surgery for your frame if you worry about sagging or volume loss. Candidates also experience elongated or pendulous breasts with nipples or areolas pointing downward. For instance, if your nipples fall below the breast crease when you’re not wearing a bra, a breast lift can provide the necessary boost into an attractive position. This is also great for those with one breast lower than the other.
To lift and enlarge breasts, a breast lift and augmentation can be combined, creating an overall youthful and perky appearance. A board certified surgeon will help you determine whether you need a lift or a combination of the two.
Breast Reduction
If you’re suffering from one or more of the six most common health issues caused by large breasts—including neck, shoulder and back pain, shoulder grooves, rashes, numbness, inability to exercise, and headaches—it may be time to visit a plastic surgeon about a breast reduction.
Candidates often feel limited by their overly large breasts—both physically and emotionally. In addition to pain and discomforts, women with excess breast tissue can become self-conscious and suffer from self-image issues. They’re ready to reduce all of these symptoms, and the size of their breasts.
The surgery removes excess tissue and skin to form a smaller breast proportionate with the rest of the body and is often covered by insurance.To determine if you’re a candidate for a breast reduction, schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is performed for patients who have undergone a mastectomy. This surgery can completely restore your breasts to nearly normal shape and significantly improve your body image. Candidates typically have a positive outlook on the surgery and realistic goals for their new breasts. They’ve proven to cope well with their diagnosis and treatment, as well.
Because this is a highly personalized procedure, anyone interested in breast reconstruction should speak to a board certified plastic surgeon to walk through the procedure, explain how to achieve your goals, and provide support throughout the process.
Long Island-based plastic surgeon Anthony Buglino can help you determine which breast surgery is right for your frame and needs. As an osteopathic physician, Dr. Buglino believes in every patient’s overall health, meaning he will provide you with the necessary support and advice throughout your breast surgery journey.
Schedule a free consultation today!
