The Difference Between Breast Augmentation and a Breast Lift

Breast surgery is one of the most requested procedures among women in the United States. Whether you’re looking to enhance volume or correct sagging, understanding your options is key. Two of the most requested solutions are breast augmentation and breast lift surgery, and knowing how they differ can help clarify which is right for you.

At Little Rock Plastic Surgery, Dr. Michael Spann offers a comprehensive range of breast procedures, with an emphasis on safety, expertise, and natural-looking results. Board-certified in both General Surgery and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Spann has undergone extensive training, including five years of general surgery followed by two years of focused training exclusively in plastic surgery. 

Breast Augmentation Adds Volume and Shape

Breast augmentation uses implants to enhance the size and shape of your breasts. It is a great choice if your main concern is fullness or symmetry rather than sagging. During this procedure, Dr. Spann places either saline or silicone implants to achieve your desired size and contour. Many women choose breast implants to restore volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss.

Top reasons women choose breast augmentation include:

• Naturally small breasts: Ideal for patients who want more fullness or better proportions.
• Post-pregnancy volume loss: Implants help restore shape after breastfeeding.
• Breast asymmetry: Enhances symmetry by matching size and contour.
• Confidence boost: Clothes often fit better, and body image may improve.

Choosing the right size and implant type is a key part of your consultation with Dr. Spann. He uses a natural approach, often placing implants under the muscle for a subtle contour.

Breast Lift Corrects Sagging and Reshapes the Breast

Also called mastopexy, a breast lift raises sagging breasts by trimming excess skin and reshaping tissue. This procedure improves the position and firmness of the breasts but does not add volume. If you’re happy with your breast size but want a perkier appearance, a breast lift may be the right choice.

A breast lift is often ideal for women with:

• Sagging or drooping breasts: Often caused by aging or pregnancy.
• Nipples that point downward: Repositioning gives a more youthful look.
• Elongated or flattened shape: Reshaping creates a better contour.
• Uneven breast position: The lift can improve symmetry.

Depending on your needs, Dr. Spann may also resize the areolas for better proportion. He tailors the incision method to match your anatomy and goals.

Can You Combine a Breast Augmentation and a Breast Lift?

Yes, combining these procedures is very common, especially for women who want both a fuller and lifted look. Pregnancy, aging, and weight changes can lead to volume loss and sagging simultaneously. When these concerns occur together, Dr. Spann often recommends combining a breast lift with implants to address both at once.

Explore Breast Surgery with Confidence

Interested in learning whether you need a breast augmentation, a breast lift, or both? Call 501.219.8000 to discuss your goals for breast surgery and start feeling more confident in your body.