If you’re considering a boob job, you may be wondering whether to go for breast augmentation or a breast uplift. While these procedures are often combined, it’s important to understand the goals and differences of each surgery type.
Our guide is here to walk you through the differences between a breast lift and breast augmentation surgery so that you can choose the procedure that’s best for you.
If you have any questions, you are welcome to reach out to the Adam Critchley team at our clinic in Newcastle for more information and to book an initial consultation.
What is a breast lift?
A breast lift (also known as breast uplift surgery or mastopexy) is a procedure designed to raise the position of the breasts. It doesn’t add volume through implants, but can help create a shapely and pert silhouette.
Over time, breasts naturally become lower, especially if you have experienced weight changes or breastfed your children. During a breast uplift, your surgeon will remove any excess skin to lift and reshape your breasts. They will also reposition your nipples.
A boob lift could be a good option for you if you:
- Feel that your breasts are sagging
- Want to remove loose skin and create a more youthful look
- Want to raise downward-pointing nipples
- Want to create a more symmetrical look
- Are not worried about increasing your breast size
Find out more about getting a breast lift in Newcastle and explore our guide to breast uplift surgery for a more detailed look at what the procedure entails.
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation is your classic “boob job”. It’s also known as breast enlargement, and typically involves creating an incision and inserting silicone (or sometimes saline) implants within the breast to create a fuller bust.
People seek breast augmentation surgery for a whole host of reasons. If any of the following points resonate with you, you may find that breast enlargement is a suitable option:
- You’d like to increase your breast cup size
- You have breast asymmetry and would like to increase the size of your smaller breast to even out your bust
- You feel your breasts are not in proportion with the rest of your body
- You feel your breasts lack fullness after losing weight or being pregnant
- You want to improve the overall tone of your breasts
Interested in breast augmentation in Newcastle? Get in touch with us to book your initial breast surgery consultation with breast consultant Adam Critchley.
We’ve also put a boob job fact vs fiction guide together to debunk common misconceptions about breast augmentation.
What are the differences in recovery times and aftercare?
The time it takes for both breast uplift and breast augmentation recovery is very similar. However, as breast lift surgery generally involves larger incisions than breast augmentation, it can take a little longer to heal.
After getting a breast lift, we recommend taking at least two weeks off, as you may find your breasts feel sore. It takes about six weeks to heal fully.
With breast enlargement, you may find the recovery period is less painful, and many people are able to return to work after a week or so. After this procedure, a full recovery will likely take four to six weeks.
Whichever type of surgery you go for, there are a few essential recovery steps to be aware of:
1) You’ll need to arrange a lift home after the surgery as you will be unable to drive.
2) It’s important to keep your chest dry for the first week following the procedure.
3) Surgical bras and soft support bras are some of the most important things to buy before breast augmentation or uplift surgery. You’ll need to wear these for a minimum of two weeks.
4) Your surgeon will recommend the right painkillers to take, so only take what they prescribe.
5) Avoid any heavy lifting for at least two weeks after your surgery.
6) You will need to wait at least six months until you can use a sunbed or be exposed to direct sunlight.
For more breast lift and augmentation recovery advice, take a look at our guide: Breast surgery recovery: The do’s and don’ts.
Can you combine a breast uplift and breast augmentation?
Yes, many people combine a breast uplift and enlargement — this is known as a Breast Augmentation Mastopexy.
The combined procedure can be beneficial for those who want to create a fuller and more lifted bust. It involves adding implants and raising the breasts to a more youthful position.
What are the differences in costs?
At Adam Critchley, we aim to be as transparent as possible with the pricing of our breast surgery in Newcastle.
We always start with a comprehensive consultation (£200), so we develop the perfect plan for you. Surgery costs will then vary slightly, depending on whether you opt for day care or overnight care.
- Breast uplift cost: £8,273 – £8,522
- Breast augmentation cost: £7,244
- Breast augmentation revision with bilateral capsulectomies: £10,102
- Combined breast augmentation and uplift: £9,215 – £10,102
Breast lift vs breast augmentation: Which is right for you?
We recognise that choosing the best type of breast surgery for you is a big decision. We recommend seeking advice from our experienced surgeon, Adam Critchley, and considering the look you would like to achieve.
If your focus is on a more pert and youthful silhouette without increased volume, a breast lift may be the best choice for you. However, if you would like to increase your breast size, then augmentation (with or without a breast lift), could be a beneficial option.
We recommend looking at our breast uplift before-and-after and breast augmentation before-and-after pictures to get a clearer idea of the possibilities, and speak to Adam for advice tailored to you and your body.
Book your consultation with Adam Critchley
When you go through your consultation with Adam, he will guide you through your options so you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve the aesthetic and confidence you’re after.
If you’re ready to take the next step, please don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team to book your initial consultation.
