Two common cosmetic procedures that address breast-related concerns are breast reduction and breast lift. While both of these surgeries aim to alter the appearance the breasts, they differ in their primary goals and surgical techniques. Being aware of the nuances between breast reduction and breast lift is important for anyone considering these procedures. In this blog, Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Michael Kernohan will get into the definitions, common reasons, and key distinctions between these two popular plastic surgeries.
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a more proportionate and manageable breast size. This procedure is often sought by women who are experiencing physical discomfort or self-consciousness due to excessively large breasts.
One of the primary reasons you might consider breast reduction is to alleviate the physical strain that can come with carrying around large, heavy breasts. Many women report experiencing persistent back pain, neck pain, and shoulder discomfort as a result of the weight and positioning of their breasts. Breast reduction can significantly reduce this burden, leading to improved posture, increased mobility, and a reduction in related musculoskeletal issues.
Beyond the physical benefits, breast reduction can also have a profound impact on your body image. Overly large breasts can often lead to feelings of self-consciousness, difficulty finding well-fitting clothing, and unwanted attention. By addressing these concerns through breast reduction surgery, patients frequently report a more positive outlook on their overall appearance.
The surgical technique for breast reduction typically involves making carefully placed incisions to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. The nipple-areola complex is then repositioned to a higher placement on the newly contoured breast mound. In some cases, the areola may also be reduced in size to more appropriate proportions.
After the excess tissue has been removed, the remaining breast skin and tissue are tightened and shaped to create a more desired breast profile. The incisions are then closed with sutures, leaving scars that are strategically placed to be as discreet as possible, often along the natural creases and contours of the breast.
The recovery process for breast reduction surgery can vary, but you can generally expect to take 1-2 weeks off from work and normal activities. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common in the initial days following the procedure, but these symptoms typically subside within the first week or two. Most patients are able to resume light exercise and daily routines within 3-4 weeks, with the final results becoming fully evident over the course of several months to a year.
In contrast to breast reduction, a breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure focused on reshaping and repositioning the existing breast tissue rather than removing a significant amount of volume. This procedure is often sought by women who are experiencing sagging or drooping (medically known as ptosis) of the breasts due to factors such as ageing, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or genetic predisposition.
The primary goal of a breast lift is to restore an elevated shape by tightening and reshaping the breast tissue. This can be a particularly beneficial option fif you are satisfied with the overall size of your breasts but are concerned about the effects of gravity and time on their breast appearance.
During a breast lift procedure, excess skin is removed, and the remaining breast tissue is tightened and reshaped. The nipple-areola complex is also repositioned to a higher placement on the newly contoured breast mound. In some cases, the areola may be reduced in size to more appropriate proportions as well.
Unlike breast reduction, a breast lift does not typically result in a significant decrease in overall breast size. Instead, the procedure aims to modify the shape, lift, and projection of the breasts.
The recovery process for a breast lift is similar to that of breast reduction, with patients generally taking 1-2 weeks off from work and normal activities. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common in the initial days following the procedure, but these symptoms typically subside within the first week or two. Most patients are able to resume light exercise and daily routines within 3-4 weeks, with the final results becoming fully evident over the course of several months to a year.
It’s important to note that while a breast lift can address sagging and drooping, it does not necessarily resolve issues related to overly large, asymmetric or disproportionate breasts. In cases where both size reduction and reshaping are desired, a combination of breast reduction and breast lift techniques may be recommended by Dr Kernohan.
There are distinct differences between these two surgical procedures that are important to understand. These key differences are summarised in the table below:
| Characteristic | Breast Reduction | Breast Lift |
| Primary Objective | Decrease overall breast size and volume | Reshape and reposition existing breast tissue for a more lifted appearance |
| Surgical Technique | Removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin | Tightening and reshaping of existing breast tissue without significant volume reduction |
| Incision Patterns | Lollipop incision or Anchor / inverted-T shaped incisions for comprehensive reshaping | Lollipop or keyhole incision patterns for lifting and tightening |
| Recovery and Scarring | Slightly longer recovery period (1-2 weeks off work) and more extensive scarring | Slightly shorter recovery period (3-4 weeks to resume daily activities) and less extensive scarring |
The choice between breast reduction and breast lift varies from person to person. All breast reductions involve a breast lift and some breast lifts involve a small volume reduction. It will depend on the your specific concerns, goals, anatomy, and the recommendations of Dr Kernohan. In most cases, a combination of the two procedures may be the most appropriate approach.
When deciding between breast reduction and breast lift, there are several key factors to consider in order to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for your individual needs and goals. These factors include:
Breast Size and Shape
One of the primary considerations is the current size and shape of your breasts. If you have significantly large, heavy breasts that cause physical discomfort or unwanted attention, a breast reduction may be the more suitable option. This procedure can effectively reduce the overall volume and weight of the breasts, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Conversely, if your breasts are of moderate size but have begun to sag or lose their perky appearance due to factors like age, pregnancy, or significant weight loss, a breast lift may be the better choice. This procedure focuses on repositioning and reshaping the existing breast tissue without drastically altering the size.
Degree of Ptosis (Sagging)
The degree of breast ptosis, or sagging, is another important factor. Patients with significant breast ptosis and loss of volume may benefit more from a combined breast reduction and lift procedure, as this can address both the size and position of the breasts.
On the other hand, those with minimal to moderate breast sagging may achieve their desired results through a breast lift alone, without the need for volume reduction.
Lifestyle and Activity Level
Your lifestyle and activity level can also influence the choice between breast reduction and breast lift. If you lead an active lifestyle or participate in sports, the weight and bulk of overly large breasts may be a significant hindrance, making breast reduction the more practical option.
If you are primarily concerned with the appearance of your breasts and are not as affected by their size in your day-to-day activities, a breast lift may be the more suitable approach.
Age and Future Pregnancy Plans
Your age and future pregnancy plans can also play a role in the decision-making process. Younger patients who may desire future pregnancies may want to opt for a breast lift, as this procedure is generally less disruptive to the breast tissue and can accommodate future changes associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Older patients or those who do not plan to have children may be better suited for breast reduction, as this procedure provides more long-lasting results and is less likely to be impacted by the natural changes that occur with age and pregnancy.
Overall Health and Medical History
Finally, your overall health and medical history should be carefully considered. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or cardiovascular issues, may be better suited for a less invasive procedure like breast lift, as the recovery and risk profile may be more favourable.