There seems to be much confusion about Breast Lift (Mastopexy) vs. Augmentation (Breast Enhancement). These are two very different procedures.
The mastopexy seeks to change the contour while the augmentation increase the volume of the breast. For women whose breasts have sagged due to age, pregnancy, weight loss, or for whatever reason, the the nipple is at a level beneath where the breast attaches to the chest wall. In the “normal breast’ the position of the nipple – that is where the breast joins the chest wall or inframammary fold (IMF) is at the level or slightly above the IMF . Grade I ptosis is defined by the fact that the nipple is below the IMF while in Grade 3 the nipple is pointing vertically downward.
A less severe case of breast ptosis (droop) or pseudoptosis is where there is loss of superior fullness in an otherwise well proportioned breast. Breast Augmentation will increase the volume of the breast and minimally change the degree of ptosis (position of the nipple in relation to the IMF.
If we think about this intellectually, the lower limit of a breast implant has to be the IMF, otherwise the breast will be in an inappropriate location – on the lower chest – and not a very pleasing contour or thought.
Most women who have small breasts with either normal or Grade I and sometimes Grade 2 can simply undergo a breast augmentation. Women who are happy with the size of their breasts, but unhappy about the contour of their breasts and position of their nipples can undergo a mastopexy. Women who are unhappy with the contour as well as the volume of their breasts can undergo combined breast augmentation and mastopexy procedures.
The mastopexy procedure seeks to elevate the position of the nipple in relationship to the IMF, while the augmentation procedure seeks to increase the volume of the breast.
In some instances of Grade 1 and Grade 2 ptosis, a duel-plane breast augmentation can be performed, while in most cases of Grade C ptosis, a separate mastopexy procedure will be necessary to restore a natural contour.
During your consultation your surgeon will advise you of the best and least invasive procedure to restore a youthful look to your breasts as well as discuss alternative treatments. More information on breast augmentation can be viewed on our website at: www.thepatientsadvantage.com.
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