Breast Reduction and Breast Lift: The Difference
What Is Breast Reduction?
Reduction mammoplasty, or breast reduction surgery, is a cosmetic surgery that involves the removal of excess skin, fat, and breast tissue to decrease the overall size of your breasts. Your plastic surgeon may opt to remove excess fat through liposuction (solely or in combination with surgical breast reduction) for optimal results. Breast reduction surgery may also include reshaping or refining the areola and repositioning the nipples to a more natural position.
Who Might Consider Breast Reduction Surgery?
Women might consider breast reduction surgery when:
- Large breast size causes discomfort such as neck, back, and shoulder pain or skin irritations
- Breasts appear disproportionate to body size
- Breast size impairs movement or the ability to enjoy an active lifestyle
What Is A Breast Lift?
Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, aims to improve the shape and position of your breasts without impacting the size of your breasts. This is achieved by removing excess skin tissue, but leaving the breast tissue intact. Nipples and areola are often refined during breast lift surgery.
Who Might Consider Breast Lift Surgery?
Women might consider breast lift surgery when:
- The breasts sit lower than desired
- The breasts appear deflated due to loss of skin tissue elasticity
- The areolas appear stretched out or misshapen
- There is no desire to increase or decrease breast size
Optimal Results With Combined Breast Reduction And Lift
It is not unusual for women with large breasts to experience some of the same concerns as women who are considering a breast lift. The excess weight of large breasts can cause sagging, stretched skin, and loss of volume. Quite often, your plastic surgeon will recommend a breast lift in combination with a breast reduction for optimal results. This allows the surgeon to lift the breast tissue that is remaining after a breast reduction to create a higher profile and more appealing silhouette.
Expert Breast Reduction And Breast Lift Surgery At Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton
Breast reduction and breast lift surgeries can improve the shape, position, and appearance of your breasts. Breast reduction is for women who experience pain and discomfort, or emotional dissatisfaction due to the size of their breasts. Breast lifts are for women who are generally satisfied with their breast size, but desire a higher, fuller, shapelier breast profile. If you are considering breast reduction mammoplasty, breast lift, or any other breast surgery, book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Adil Ladak to learn more.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in cosmetic plastic surgery and other non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQ
Q: Is breast reduction safe?
A: Yes. Breast reduction is generally safe. But with any surgery, you run a small risk of infection. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to recover from your procedure and avoid complications.
Q: Does breast reduction affect breastfeeding?
A: The ability to breastfeed after a reduction is dependent on several factors including the type of surgery chosen, the condition of nerves, ducts, and blood supply post-surgery, and the level of refinement done to the nipple. Many women are able to breastfeed after a breast reduction, but if you plan to breastfeed in the future, let your surgeon know. A full understanding of the risks and benefits will help you make the best decision for yourself.
Q: How long is breast reduction surgery?
A: Breast reduction surgery typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the patient’s breast size and the desired outcomes for surgery. Book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ladak to discuss your goals and he will be able to give you a more concise estimate for your surgery.
