There is a wide range of breast surgery procedures designed to alter the size, shape, or position of the breasts. Here is an introduction to these procedures where we explain each of them, including their key differences.
Augmentation
- Objective: Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation is a surgical procedure done to increase the size and enhance the shape of the breasts.
- Procedure: The surgery involves inserting breast implants (typically silicone or saline) beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle to achieve the desired size and shape.
- Candidates: Women seeking to enhance breast size, restore breast volume lost due to pregnancy or weight loss, or improve breast symmetry.
- Results: Results are immediate, providing a fuller and more shapely appearance.
Implant Removal
- Objective: Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure to remove previously placed breast implants.
- Procedure: It may involve removing the implant alone or it can be combined with other procedures such as a breast lift or replacing implants.
- Candidates: Women who no longer wish to have breast implants, whether due to complications, dissatisfaction, or changes in preferences. Also, those who need to replace their current implants due to complications, etc.
- Results: The outcome depends on whether the implants are simply removed or replaced, or if other procedures are performed simultaneously.
Implant Revision
- Objective: Breast implant revision is a surgical procedure to address complications or to make changes to existing breast implants.
- Procedure: Examples include replacing old implants with new ones, adjusting implant size or position, or correcting issues like capsular contracture or implant rupture.
- Candidates: Women with complications from previous breast augmentation or those who want to make changes to their existing implants.
- Results: The outcome varies based on the specific revision needs but aims to improve the appearance and comfort of the breasts.
Lift
- Objective: Also called a Mastopexy, a breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts.
- Procedure: It involves removing excess skin, repositioning the nipple-areola complex, and reshaping breast tissue to achieve a more youthful and elevated breast contour.
- Candidates: Women with sagging breasts often due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss.
- Results: The procedure creates a more lifted and firmer appearance of the breasts.
Reduction
- Objective: Also called reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size and weight of large, heavy breasts.
- Procedure: Excess breast tissue and skin are removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped to achieve a smaller and more proportionate breast size.
- Candidates: Women with overly large breasts that cause physical discomfort, pain, or psychological distress.
- Results: The procedure results in smaller, lighter breasts with improved shape and reduced physical strain.
Reconstruction
- Objective: Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure or series of procedures aimed at rebuilding the breast(s) after a mastectomy (removal of breast tissue) or breast-conserving surgery (such as a lumpectomy).
- Procedure: Breast reconstruction can be achieved through various techniques, including implants (similar to breast augmentation), autologous tissue transfer (using the patient’s own tissue, like the TRAM flap or DIEP flap), or a combination of both.
- Candidates: Women who have undergone mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer treatment or those with congenital breast abnormalities seeking breast restoration.
- Results: The goal of breast reconstruction is to recreate a breast mound that is as symmetrical as possible with the remaining breast (if applicable) and to restore a natural-looking breast shape and size. This procedure aims to improve the psychological and emotional well-being of breast cancer survivors or individuals with congenital breast issues.
Key Differences In a Nutshell
- Breast augmentation and implant revision involve adding or modifying breast implants.
- Breast implant removal is focused on removing implants.
- Breast lifts address sagging without changing size.
- Breast reduction reduces breast size and alleviates physical discomfort.
- Breast reconstruction’s goal is to restore and create a symmetrical, natural-looking breast.
Each procedure serves different purposes, and the choice depends on a person’s goals, body type, and specific concerns. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the most appropriate option for an individual’s needs and desired outcomes. Contact Coal Creek Plastic Surgery’s caring, supportive staff to determine your breast procedure goals and options.
Click here for more from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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