Breast augmentation and breast lift surgery are some of the most popular cosmetic enhancement procedures in the nation, and that popularity has been reflected here at Central Ohio Plastic Surgery for many years. In fact, aesthetic breast surgery is an area of special focus for our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Jason B. Lichten. If you are considering cosmetic changes to the appearance of your breasts, it is important to understand the differences between breast augmentation and breast lift surgery since these procedures are designed to address distinct concerns and accomplish their own unique set of goals. 

Here is a quick overview of breast augmentation and breast lift surgery, along with links to more detailed pages on each procedure:  

Breast Augmentation

A breast augmentation is designed to enhance the size, volume, and shape of the breasts. Breast augmentation can be helpful for restoring fullness to breasts that have lost volume after pregnancy or nursing, or for personal fulfillment if one simply wishes to have a larger breast size. For this type of breast enhancement, silicone breast implants (FDA-approved for ages 22 and older) or saline breast implants (FDA-approved for ages 18 and older) will be placed behind the muscle or breast tissue. Dr. Lichten customizes breast augmentation procedures based on each patient’s specific needs and goals, with meticulous attention toward producing the best possible aesthetic balance with overall body proportions and results that look both beautiful and natural.  

Breast Lift 

Breast lift surgery, medically referred to as “mastopexy,” is a procedure designed to address breast ptosis (a sagging or drooping appearance). Breast ptosis is very common among women and can be caused by fluctuations in weight over time, pregnancy and breastfeeding, genetics, and the natural aging process. A breast lift can improve the appearance of sagging breasts by elevating them to a more youthful and “perky” position. This procedure removes excess skin and tissue, tightens the remaining skin, and raises the breasts to a higher position on the chest wall. The nipples and areolas can also be repositioned as necessary for the best aesthetic result. While breast lift surgery can give the breasts a firmer feel and more vibrant look, it cannot enhance the size of the breasts. Generally, ideal candidates for this procedure are satisfied with their current breast volume and size but want to improve the look of breasts that hang low and may even be causing discomfort. 

It is quite common for women to have cosmetic goals that include both the desire to attain a larger breast size as well as a “perkier” breast appearance when signs of ptosis are apparent. To accomplish this, a breast augmentation and breast lift can be combined as a breast lift with implants (augmentation-mastopexy) to simultaneously address both concerns. Depending on individual needs and goals, a breast lift with implants may also be included as part of a mommy makeover for a comprehensive aesthetic rejuvenation.

To help decide the most suitable approach for your individual breast concerns, an initial consultation with Dr. Lichten can determine which procedure or combination of procedures may be best to achieve your unique goals for breast enhancement.

For more information about our cosmetic breast procedures, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lichten, please contact us today.