Breast beautification procedures have been a part of cosmetic surgery for more than two hundred years. The first documented breast augmentation surgery was performed in 1895, transplanting tissue from the back to the breast to correct asymmetry.
Since then, tremendous strides have been made in both techniques and materials, giving patients many more options for achieving their ideal figure. I’d like to write today about the two main methods for enhancing a woman’s breasts and how a combination of these two techniques can yield truly gratifying results.
What is a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)?
Mastopexy is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape breasts that have lost their tone due to childbirth, weight loss, and simple ageing. Your surgeon removes excess skin, then repositions the skin and nipple to restore youthful contours, along with fullness and firmness.
A breast lift begins with an incision around the areola; a second incision is made from the bottom of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. Most surgeons call this incision and resulting scar a ‘lollipop’ scar.
The procedure can take anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours. You will be under general anaesthetic during this time.
It should be noted that a breast lift is not a permanent fix. Surgery is not magic, and no surgical procedure, cosmetic or otherwise, can defy the laws of gravity forever. How long the benefits of a lift last is highly individualised.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure in which implants are used to enlarge or reconstruct breasts. A silicone or polyurethane outer shell covers the implant, which may be filled with a saline (salt) solution or silicone gel.
You and your surgeon will select implant type and dimensions based on your desired increase in size, of course, but more importantly based on your natural breast proportions, anatomy, skin elasticity and body type. These factors will also guide your surgeon in the placement of incisions.
After the incision is completed, the implant is inserted into a pocket. Depending on your body, it will be inserted under the pectoral muscle or directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle.
Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime and may eventually need to be removed or replaced. “The risk of complications increases as the implant ages,” reports Australia’s Better Health Channel website. These possible complications include infection, rupture, and scarring.
Can I Have a Breast Lift and Implants Done at the Same Time?
Many patients who have surgery to alter the size of their breasts want a breast lift as well. A breast lift enhances newly enlarged or reduced breasts by presenting them as youthful, firm and shapely.
In my experience, patients who undergo a combined procedure are extremely satisfied with the results.
Would You Like to Know More?
If you have questions about breast implants, breast augmentation, or anything mentioned in this post, please call us at the Form and Face office on 1800 376 677 or send us an enquiry using the form below.