Many of my breast augmentation patients in the Downers Grove and Naperville, IL, area have concerns about the size and position of their breasts. Over time, even the perkiest breasts can succumb to gravity’s forces. In addition to the natural aging process, a saggy appearance can be accelerated by events like pregnancy and weight loss.
Fortunately, performing breast augmentation in concert with breast lift is a relatively common approach and can address 2 of the most common breast-related concerns at the same time. But how can you be sure that this approach is the correct one for you?
An “augmentation mastopexy” might be right for you if:
- You’re over 40. Skin loses elasticity and resilience with age, and the breasts are no exception—they can be affected just as much as the face or other areas of the body. While the addition of breast implants can improve volume and temporarily make the skin look tighter, it can actually exacerbate sagging if not accompanied by a surgical lift. While the aging process is different for everyone, 40 is a good benchmark.
- You’ve been pregnant. Pregnancy begins to change the breasts very early on, beginning with tenderness and swelling and progressing to engorgement with milk as the pregnancy progresses. Once you’ve completed breastfeeding your child, your breasts stop producing milk and gradually return to their original size. This significant change in volume can leave loose skin behind, along with sagging and stretch marks.
- You’ve lost weight. Because breasts are made mostly from fat, they’re often affected by significant weight loss. This can lead to a “deflated” appearance that can’t be remedied by implants alone.
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This approach might be wrong for you if:
- Your sagging is minimal. There are degrees of sagging, and breast lift is usually only indicated when the nipple extends lower than the breast crease. If your sagging is only mild, a breast lift may not be necessary. It’s important not to over-treat for a mild condition.
- Your skin is in good condition. If your breasts are small but you’re not bothered by excess skin or skin that’s lost elasticity, breast augmentation on its own is likely a good option. After your surgery, your body will naturally “make room” for your implants. If your skin is in good condition prior to surgery, breast augmentation is not likely to cause excess sagging.
- You’re happy with the position of your breasts. Perhaps the most obvious indicator for your need for breast lift surgery is your personal satisfaction with your breasts. If you’re happy with their placement and don’t feel an urgent need to lift them, then there’s probably no reason to undergo the surgery. You know your body best.
Combining breast lift with breast augmentation is a relatively common technique, but it does come with some caveats. Recuperation after a combined breast augmentation and lift is usually a bit more involved than that of a standard breast augmentation because the muscles are affected during surgery. This adds a bit of time to the healing process—typically only a day or so.
The factors I outlined in this blog post are meant to be guideposts, not medical advice. The most certain way to determine your eligibility for breast augmentation and lift is through an in-person consultation. During this appointment, I perform a thorough assessment of your breasts and discuss your desired outcome and long-term goals. Once I understand you as an individual, we can work together to create a surgical plan that helps you achieve your goals.
I invite you to begin today. If you’re ready to discuss breast augmentation (with or without a lift), please contact my office to arrange your first visit. I look forward to getting to know you!
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