When it comes to changing the appearance of breasts, women have a lot of surgical options. There are surgeries to make breasts bigger; there are surgeries to make breasts smaller; there are surgeries to lift breasts, and there are surgeries to change your breast’s nipples.
Today, we are focusing on two of the most popular breast surgeries: a breast lift and a breast reduction. Although they both work to change the shape of the breast by removing excess skin and tissue, they are distinct procedures.
If you aren’t sure which one is right for you, read on. We will cover the differences between a breast lift and a breast reduction so that you can make an informed decision.
Breast Lift
This type of surgery is formally called a mastopexy. It changes the appearance of your breasts not by lifting your actual breast tissue but rather by reconstructing the tissues that surround your breast tissue.
The surgeon achieves this by removing excess skin and tightening both the tissue and the skin surrounding the breast area. This causes the breasts to have a lifted appearance.
You may find that after undergoing a breast lift, your cup size may go up. This is not because your breasts are actually bigger, but rather because they are firmer and, thus, look fuller. Going up a cup size will provide you with a more comfortable fit.
However, it is important to note that the purpose of a breast lift is not to increase the size of the breasts but to improve their shape via lifting.
Breast Reduction
The formal name for this surgery is reduction mammaplasty. Its purpose is to reduce both the size and the weight of breasts.
How is it done?
The surgeon removes excess fat, skin, and tissue to help the breasts become smaller. Sometimes the surgeon may even opt to use liposuction (in the case of natural breasts) to get rid of the excess tissue.
Following this surgery, patients can expect to enjoy smaller breasts that are also lighter. A bonus is firmer breasts that don’t sag, thanks to the removal of excess fat.
Many women opt for this surgery not just to change the appearance of their breasts but also to alleviate the pain they may be suffering due to carrying the weight of big breasts around. Women with large breasts often deal with neck pain as well as shoulder and back issues. Over time, they can get increasingly severe to the point where it is better to undergo a reduction surgery than continue to endure the pain.
Which surgery is right for me?
If you are looking to alleviate pain due to large breasts . . .
Then a breast reduction is right for you. This surgery will help alleviate the discomfort you feel as a result of large breasts and will improve the appearance of your breasts as well. You will notice the difference immediately after surgery and enjoy the perks of smaller breasts.
If you are looking to change the shape of your breasts . . .
Then a breast lift is right for you. Aging, genetics, breastfeeding, and hormones can wreak havoc on your breasts and their appearance. If you are bothered by how your breasts look – that they sag or are misshapen – then a breast lift is what the doctor ordered. Immediately after surgery, you will find that your breasts are more lifted and firm.
The surgeon you choose to do your procedure will make the ultimate decision of what surgery is best for achieving your wants. They will know what is best for you, your body, and your desired results.
Is there a difference in downtime?
Both breast reduction and breast lift are outpatient procedures, and they both require approximately the same recovery time. You can expect to be down for anywhere between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on how your body handles a surgery such as this.
Is there a price difference?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a breast reduction is $7,800. That same study also showed that the average cost of a breast lift is $6,816.
As you can see, a breast reduction costs a bit more, likely because more work is involved in ridding excess tissue, fat, and skin and reshaping the breasts, whereas with a breast lift, you are focusing primarily on reshaping the breasts. There may be minimal tissue removal involved, but the lift is primarily for reshaping the contours.
Note that neither of the above prices includes anesthesia, operating room costs, and other expenses related to the surgeries.
Additionally, please note that prices may vary depending on the location of your surgery and the surgeon’s experience level.
Now that you’ve learned the differences between a breast lift and a breast reduction, you can make the choice of which one best suits your needs. Always rely on a trusted, experienced surgeon to help you finalize this decision.
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