When it comes to enhancing the appearance of your breasts, two of the most popular surgical options are a breast lift and breast augmentation. While these procedures are often mentioned together, they serve very different purposes. At Pittman Plastic Surgery in Athens, GA, our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Ed Pittman and Dr. Matthew Baker, help patients determine which procedure—or combination of both—is best suited to their unique goals.
Understanding the difference between a breast lift and breast augmentation is key to making an informed decision about your body and your confidence.
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Over time, factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, and gravity can cause the breasts to lose their youthful shape and firmness. A breast lift corrects this by:
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Removing excess skin
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Tightening surrounding tissue
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Repositioning the nipple and areola to a more youthful height
The goal of a breast lift is not to increase breast size, but rather to restore a perkier, more lifted appearance. Patients often choose a breast lift when they are happy with their breast size but unhappy with the sagging or drooping that has occurred.
Ideal Candidates for a Breast Lift
You may be a good candidate for a breast lift if you:
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Have sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss
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Notice nipples that point downward or sit below the breast crease
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Are satisfied with your breast size but want a firmer, lifted appearance
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Are in good overall health and maintain a stable weight
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that uses implants to increase breast size, improve symmetry, and enhance overall shape. At Pittman Plastic Surgery, our surgeons use advanced techniques and high-quality implants to provide natural-looking results tailored to each patient’s body and goals.
Breast augmentation is ideal for patients who:
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Want larger or fuller breasts
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Desire improved balance or proportion
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Have naturally small breasts and want to enhance their size
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Seek to restore lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
Implant Options
At Pittman Plastic Surgery, patients can choose from a variety of breast implant options, including:
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Saline or Silicone Implants: Each with unique benefits in feel and look
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Round or Teardrop-Shaped Implants: Depending on whether the goal is upper fullness or a natural slope
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Different Profiles and Sizes: Customized to match the patient’s frame and aesthetic goals
Key Differences Between a Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation
Although both procedures focus on improving the appearance of the breasts, their goals and outcomes are different:
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Volume vs. Position:
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Breast augmentation increases size and fullness.
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A breast lift repositions and reshapes without necessarily changing size.
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Ideal Concerns Addressed:
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Breast augmentation is for patients seeking more volume.
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A breast lift is for those who are concerned with sagging and drooping.
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Scarring and Incisions:
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Both procedures involve incisions, but the pattern depends on the type of lift or implant placement.
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Our surgeons prioritize discreet incision placement to minimize visible scarring.
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Longevity of Results:
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Breast augmentation results are long-lasting but may require future implant replacement.
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Breast lift results are also long-lasting, though natural aging and gravity continue to affect the breasts over time.
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Can a Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation Be Combined?
Yes. In fact, many patients at Pittman Plastic Surgery benefit from a combination procedure that both lifts and enlarges the breasts. This is particularly common for women who have experienced changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding, where both volume loss and sagging occur.
By combining breast augmentation with a breast lift, patients achieve:
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Fuller, more youthful-looking breasts
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Improved symmetry and proportion
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A balanced, natural shape tailored to their body
This combination is often included as part of a Mommy Makeover, which may also feature body contouring procedures such as liposuction or a tummy tuck.
The Consultation Process at Pittman Plastic Surgery
Choosing between a breast lift, breast augmentation, or both is a highly personal decision. At Pittman Plastic Surgery, your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation. Dr. Pittman, who has been in practice since 1993, or Dr. Baker will take the time to understand your goals, review your medical history, and perform a thorough examination.
Using Vectra 3D Imaging, our surgeons can even provide a preview of how your results may look, helping you feel confident in your choice.
Recovery and What to Expect
Because every patient’s body and surgical plan is unique, recovery timelines vary. However, there are some general guidelines:
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Breast Lift Recovery: Most patients return to normal routines within 1–2 weeks, though strenuous activities should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
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Breast Augmentation Recovery: Patients usually return to work within a week, with complete healing over several weeks.
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Combination Procedures: Recovery may be slightly longer when both procedures are performed together.
Our outpatient surgery center in Athens, GA is AAAHC-accredited, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care. Patients return home the same day, and our team provides thorough aftercare instructions and resources, including referrals to professional nursing support if needed.
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
The decision between a breast lift and breast augmentation ultimately depends on your goals:
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If you want larger, fuller breasts → breast augmentation may be right for you.
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If you want to correct sagging and improve breast position → a breast lift is often the best choice.
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If you want both fullness and lift → a combination procedure offers the most comprehensive results.
At Pittman Plastic Surgery, our surgeons are dedicated to creating natural, balanced results that reflect each patient’s personal vision of beauty.
Why Choose Pittman Plastic Surgery?
For over three decades, Pittman Plastic Surgery has been a trusted name in Athens, GA for breast and body procedures. Dr. Ed Pittman and Dr. Matthew Baker are board-certified plastic surgeons who combine surgical expertise with personalized care. From consultation through recovery, patients can expect a professional, compassionate experience in a safe and welcoming environment.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between a breast lift and breast augmentation can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. By partnering with an experienced, board-certified surgeon, you’ll gain clarity on which option best aligns with your body and your goals.
If you’re considering a breast lift, breast augmentation, or a combination of both, schedule a consultation with Pittman Plastic Surgery in Athens, GA. Together, we’ll design a plan that helps you achieve natural-looking, confidence-boosting results.
