When you’re considering breast surgery it’s likely you’ll come across terms you’re not familiar with. Here at Manchester Plastic Surgery, we like to speak your language so that you understand everything to do with your treatment. So if you’re confused between breast mastopexy and breast augmentation, don’t worry, it’s a common problem.
In a nutshell, if you want a breast uplift you need to consider having a breast mastopexy but if you want larger breasts, you’ll need to consider breast augmentation. Of course, if you want larger, uplifted breasts you’ll need to consider having both treatments (which can be carried out at the same time).
What is breast mastopexy?
Mastopexy is a good treatment for solving the problem of breasts which are the size you want, but not the shape. Usually, our mastopexy patients have breasts which have lost their volume, often due to pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss, causing them to feel self-conscious, particularly when not wearing a bra.
The treatment takes between two and four hours and involves making an anchor-shaped incision following the natural contour of the breast, or an incision around the nipple, extending to the groove beneath the breast. Excess skin is then removed; the nipples and areola are moved to a higher position before the skin above and beneath is stitched giving an uplifted shape to the breast. If you have small breasts and minimal sagging it may be possible to get good results with less extensive surgery.
It's worth knowing that if you have large breasts then mastopexy will be effective but the results may not be as long-lasting.
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation refers to the use of implants to enlarge the breasts, usually by one or two cup sizes. Commonly known as a ‘boob job’ this treatment is a great way to achieve a natural-looking, feminine contour.
The surgery takes one to two hours to complete and involves having implants inserted via incisions in the creases where the breasts meet the chest. One of the most common questions is ‘what happens to the nipple?’ and in most instances, the answer is ‘usually nothing.’ For most women, it’s possible to get great results without having to move the nipple. You will be left with permanent scars though it’s usually possible to hide these with underwear, and they will fade with time.
Combining mastopexy with augmentation
Lots of women choose to combine a mastopexy treatment with breast augmentation. The best way to find out if it’s necessary to have both treatments to get the results you’d like is to attend an initial consultation with a member of our team. Your surgeon will seek to understand your idea of a good result and this shared vision will enable them to advise you on the best approach to get the results you have in mind.
If both treatments are advised then it may be wise to consider having them simultaneously so that you get the results you love and don’t have to undergo additional treatments/recovery periods.
Are there any risks?
There are risks with all types of surgery so it’s important you’re armed with the information you need to decide if surgery is the right option for you. Of course, complications are rare but they do happen. You can rest assured that our team will keep a close eye on you in the days and weeks after surgery to ensure your recovery progresses well.
One thing to consider is timing. If you’re planning to become pregnant or to lose a significant amount of weight then it may be advisable to wait as these events can cause your breasts to change shape. It’s a good idea to let your body settle into its new shape and then begin your surgery journey; that way you can achieve the look you’ve always longed for knowing that it’s here to stay for a very long time!
Take your first steps
Find out more about our mastopexy and breast augmentation treatments by booking an initial consultation.
