If you have recently decided that you would like to surgically enhance the appearance of your breasts, then you are probably wondering if a breast lift or a breast augmentation procedure is right for you. These two operations are incredibly popular, and they can help you address a wide array of cosmetic issues that you might be struggling with. Here is a quick glimpse at some of the key benefits of these procedures and a few steps that you can take to streamline your recovery. 

The Ideal Candidate

These two operations are exceptionally effective, but you will need to consider a few different variables before you have any type of cosmetic surgery carried out. In most cases, the patient needs to be relatively healthy and not suffering from any major medical complications. You must also be ready to make healthy lifestyle choices if you want to enjoy the results for many years to come. Weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and unhealthy lifestyle habits could lead to unwanted post-op complications. Finally, the patient should have realistic expectations regarding what can be accomplished with these operations. 

Choosing the Right Procedure

A breast augmentation procedure is going to be an excellent option for any woman who wants to have fuller and more symmetrical breasts. During that operation, a surgeon will place silicone or saline implants in small cavities inside the breast tissue. The type of material that used depends on a few different factors, and that includes the patient’s preferred cup size, where the shells are going to be placed, and the placement of the incisions. 

Breast lift surgery is another common cosmetic procedure that is carried out hundreds of thousands of times every year. A lift might slightly alter the size of the breasts, but the primary goal of this operation is to improve their placement. The surgeon will be able to remove unwanted tissue and pull the breasts higher on the chest to make them appear perkier. Another major benefit of this operation is the ability to alter the size and placement of the areolas. A lift could be an ideal option if you are unhappy with your breasts because of drooping, asymmetrical, or oversized areolas or nipples.

Prepping for Your Operation

After you and your surgeon have decided which operation is right for you, you are going to be given extensive pre-op instructions. In most cases, the patient will be asked to avoid alcohol, tobacco products, and over-the-counter painkillers in the weeks leading up to an operation. Patients should also make an effort to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and follow a clean diet. Staying healthy is going to speed up your recovery and greatly reduce your risk of post-op complications. Your surgeon might also go over any medications that you are currently taking to see if any temporary adjustments need to be made. 

Maintaining the Results

These cosmetic procedures are highly effective, and you might be able to enjoy the results for a decade or longer if you carefully follow all of the surgeon’s aftercare instructions. With a breast augmentation procedure, most patients are going to have the implants adjusted or replaced every 10 to 15 years to maintain the results. As for breast lift surgery, the best thing that a patient can do is stay at a stable weight in the years following the operation. It is also important for patients to wear well-fitting bras that fully support the tissue.