Breast Lift Vs. Breast Reduction – What’s the Difference?

Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, MI – When people think of breast surgeries, breast augmentation is typically the first procedure that comes to mind. And for good reason. Breast enhancement happens to be one of the most popular plastic surgeries the world over. Other breast surgeries may not get as much press, yet more women are opting for them than ever before. Breast lifts and breast reductions are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s important to learn the difference between the two before going under the knife.

Why Breast Surgery?

Many women see breasts as symbols of femininity. Furthermore, the size, shape and general appearance of her breasts can affect a woman’s self-esteem either positively or negatively. Many women choose breast surgery – either a breast lift or breast reduction – because age has taken its toll, or following childbirth. Some women seek out breast surgery during or after menopause and following significant weight loss.

Michigan plastic surgeon, Dr. M. Azhar Ali, regularly performs breast surgeries at Amae Plastic Surgery Center in Bloomfield Hills, a subsection of Detroit. According to Dr. Ali, breast lifts and breast reductions are both gaining in popularity, but the final decision of which surgery to choose should only come after a consultation and careful examination.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is recommended when a woman’s breast has lost its youthful shape and appearance due to age, childbirth or other factors. During the procedure, excess and loose skin are removed, and the nipple is repositioned to a higher level. For breasts that also lack volume, breast implants may be added. The after-effects include youthful and self-supporting breasts that help a woman’s confidence surge.

Following surgery, the woman will be required to wear a support bra around the clock for around two to four weeks. The bra helps to support the breasts while they heal. Activities should be limited so that the woman doesn’t overexert herself for at least four weeks, but she should be able to return to work after a week or so.

What is a Breast Reduction?

A woman’s breasts can swell during pregnancy or after weight gain, and some women have overly large breasts that are passed down through their family histories.

A breast reduction is recommended when the breasts have become so large that the woman experiences back, neck or shoulder pain. Oversized breasts can also make it uncomfortable to wear bras and, in some cases, exercise becomes next to impossible.

During the procedure, and in most cases, a three-part incision is made around the areola. This is also known as the “anchor” technique. Since the anchor technique can tend to produce a vertical scar around the nipple and down the fold of the breast, another procedure known as the “lollypop” method may be used. The lollypop eliminates the horizontal scar but is not always called for. The type of procedure performed is chosen by the plastic surgeon only after careful examination.

Dr. Ali notes that, “Depending on the size and shape of the breast, I will perform the type of surgery that produces the best outcome for the patient’s well-being and self-esteem.”
Following a breast lift, the patient should refrain from engaging in strenuous activity for at least six weeks. A support bra will also be used for a breast reduction, and normal activity should resume after a few weeks.

Other Breast Surgery Differences

A breast lift can cost as much as $5,000, and a breast reduction can run between $6,500 and $7,500. Both procedures offer about the same amount of downtime, and both can considerably enhance a woman’s self-esteem. One glaring difference between the two procedures is insurance. While a breast lift is rarely covered by insurance, breast reductions are often included. That’s because a breast reduction can alleviate pain and increase the woman’s quality of life.

Both a breast lift and breast reduction can also be part of a mommy makeover procedure, which is intended to give women a new lease on life following childbirth.

For more information regarding the breast lift or breast reduction procedure, call or visit Amae Plastic Surgery Center and schedule a consultation with Detroit’s own Dr. Ali.

About Us: Dr. M. Azhar Ali performs breast lifts, reductions, augmentations and other plastic surgical procedures at Amae Plastic Surgery Center in Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Ali was recently named Top Doc by Hour-Detroit magazine and enjoys a 99% patient approval rating, making him one of the top plastic surgeons in the country.

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