When it comes to deciding between a breast reduction and lift, we first need to understand that each procedure is designed to achieve different results. Since a breast reduction actually includes a lift, the decision really comes down to whether you would like to undergo a breast lift alone, or both a reduction and lift.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that can help you decide whether a breast lift or a breast reduction better suits your needs. This information will provide you with a better understanding of what each procedure can achieve, prior to your consultation with Dr Andrew Broadhurst. During your consultation, you can then discuss your surgery goals and whether a single or combined procedure may be most suitable.
What is the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction?
While both procedures aim to address breast shape and excess tissue, a breast lift focuses on the position of the breasts, while a breast reduction focuses on the size.
A breast lift, or mastopexy surgery, lifts the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. It is commonly chosen by women who experience ptosis (skin laxity on the breasts) due to natural factors, such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or the normal ageing process.
On the other hand, a breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. A breast reduction can sometimes be medically necessary to address significantly large breasts (macromastia) that can cause physical discomfort, such as neck, back or shoulder pain, mobility issues or skin irritation. When the size of the breasts are reduced, a breast lift will also be necessary, during the same procedure. Therefore, a breast reduction will also involve lifting the breasts, as well as removing excess tissue.
Is a breast lift suitable for me?
You may choose a breast lift procedure if you are generally satisfied with the size of your breasts but want to address skin laxity, the position of your breasts, asymmetry or the position of the nipples and areolae.
The more specific details that can help you and Dr Broadhurst decide if you are suitable for a breast lift can include the degree of your skin laxity, the amount of excess skin and how far the nipples and areolae have moved from their original position.
You’ll also need to undergo a thorough screening process, which involves discussing health, lifestyle, and other individual factors that must always be considered before proceeding with any surgery.
Is breast reduction a suitable procedure for me?
If your breasts are disproportionately large in relation to your body frame and causing physical discomfort, a breast reduction may be more appropriate. Since a breast reduction involves removing excess tissue, a breast lift will also be part of the procedure, removing excess skin and lifting the breasts.
Chronic pain (particularly in the back, shoulders or neck), discomfort, or limitations in physical activity due to the weight and size of your breasts can warrant the medical need for the procedure. However, some women simply choose to undergo the procedure for other personal reasons that are purely aesthetic.
Just as with a breast lift alone, a thorough consultation process will always be necessary before deciding to go through with the procedure.
What makes a suitable candidate for breast surgery?
For any cosmetic breast surgery, candidates should be in good general health, not currently pregnant or breastfeeding, and non-smokers (or willing to quit smoking about two weeks before surgery). For a breast lift or reduction, patients should be within a healthy weight range, as significant weight changes after surgery may alter the results.
Since there are limitations as to what can realistically be achieved with any cosmetic surgery, suitable candidates should have realistic expectations. Making sure that your expectations align with what the surgery can achieve is another important step in ensuring that a patient is suitable.
A suitable candidate for a breast procedure should be able to complete their recovery period. Recovery from both a breast reduction and lift will require taking some time off work, caring for incision sites, and wearing a compression bra to support healing.
You’ll be able to discuss all aspects of what makes a candidate suitable for your specific breast procedure during your consultation. Following some preparation instructions may also support your suitability for the procedure, but this will depend on your individual case.
Book your consultation for a breast reduction or lift with Dr Broadhurst in Brisbane
If you want advice as to whether a breast reduction or a breast lift is the right choice for you, we recommend booking a consultation with Dr Broadhurst in Brisbane.
Together, you can discuss your goals, expectations, and individual needs. Dr Broadhurst can assess factors such as your breast size, shape, skin elasticity, and nipple position to determine the most suitable approach for your procedure.
Contact our team to schedule your consultation!
