Combining Breast Augmentation and Lift

Often, women know they are unhappy with the appearance of their breasts, and think augmentation may be the only solution. Although adding volume can definitely make an impact in cup size, a breast lift may be required to really get that youthful look back.

There are several factors which can affect breast size and placement over time:

• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Hormonal changes
• Breast problems, such as infection or mastectomy
• Age and gravity

By combining a breast lift with breast augmentation, San Diego women can have a younger, sexier appearance than through either procedure by itself.

WHAT TO EXPECT

There are a few different techniques I can use to accomplish this which vary from patient to patient, depending on how much correction is needed. Typically during a combined breast lift/augmentation procedure, an incision will be made following the darker pigmentation of the areola, and then extended down to the natural breast crease. Implants will be placed, and the breast will be lifted and shaped into a younger, fuller silhouette. Scarring is minimal in most cases, although different techniques will affect the size and shape of the incisions. 

In the end, by combining both procedures, the result will be fuller, higher breasts with a more youthful placement and larger volume.

The 5 Steps of Breast Augmentation Surgery

Choosing any cosmetic surgery procedure can be a major life changing decision. Breast augmentation in particular can dramatically change a woman’s self image, which is why education about the procedure is so important beforehand. In my experience, many women want to know exactly what will happen the day of their breast augmentation in San Diego. Here are the basic steps that occur during surgery.

STEP 1: MARKING
Aside from the consultation, one of the most important parts of the breast augmentation procedure is the marking. While the patient sits up straight, the doctor will take careful measurements and make markings on each breast. These markings will determine the symmetry and shape of the breasts after surgery, and must be done with the utmost precision.

STEP 2: CREATING THE POCKET
After the patient is sedated, an incision is made on the breast, typically in the breast fold or around the areola. Through this incision, the surgeon creates a space, known as a pocket, where the breast implant will reside. The pocket is formed either below or above the pectoralis muscle, depending on the patient’s preferred placement location.

STEP 3: PLACING THE IMPLANT
Once the pocket is formed, the selected silicone gel or saline implant is placed in the pocket. Doctors may sit the patient up to make sure both breasts are symmetrical, and typically will make minor adjustments to the fit of the implant as needed.

STEP 4: RESHAPING THE BREASTS
As part of most breast enlargement procedures, underlying breast tissue is reshaped slightly to enhance breast contour and firmness. For a more youthful appearance, the nipple and areola may be repositioned.

STEP 5: CLOSING THE INCISIONS
After the breast implants are in place, incisions are sewn shut and bandaged. The patient is then moved to a recovery area to recover from the procedure and the effects of anesthesia.