Breast Lift vs. Breast Enlargement: What’s the Difference & Which Procedure is Right for You?

Altering and improving the appearance of breasts, breast augmentation surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures undertaken by people in the UK and worldwide. Two popular forms of breast surgery are a breast uplift (mastopexy) and a breast enlargement (augmentation mammoplasty), also known as a “boob job”.

While both procedures aim to improve the overall appearance of the breasts, they serve different purposes and involve different processes and surgical techniques. Here, we explain the differences between these two surgeries, discuss their benefits and risks, and provide guidance on how to decide which one is most suitable for you.

What is the Difference Between a Breast Uplift and Breast Enlargement?

Whilst both a breast uplift and enlargement are performed with the aim of improving the overall appearance of the breasts, the two procedures differ in how they are performed and have different outcomes. Breast lift surgery involves lifting sagging breasts and doesn’t typically involve the insertion of breast implants. Breast enlargement surgery, on the other hand, is performed with the aim of enhancing the shape and size of breasts using breast implants.

What is a Breast Uplift (Mastopexy)?

Designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, a breast uplift involves removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position, giving the breasts a firmer and perkier appearance. The size of the areola can also be reduced during this surgery. This is often chosen by those who feel their breasts have changed in appearance because of pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or ageing.

Whilst breast implants are not typically used in a breast lift, many people decide to combine a breast lift with a breast enlargement. Referred to as augmentation mastopexy, this procedure involves the breast tissue being lifted and an implant also being inserted to enhance the size and shape of the breasts along with improving sagging.

Benefits of a Breast Uplift

Improved breast shape and position.
Enhanced self-confidence and body image.
Clothing may fit better.

What is a Breast Enlargement (Augmentation Mammoplasty)?

This procedure involves the insertion of implants (made from silicone or saline) into the breasts to increase their size. It's often chosen by women who are unhappy with the small size of their breasts, wants to restore loft breast volume following weight loss or pregnancy, or achieve better symmetry when breasts are disproportionately sized.

During a breast enlargement, a surgeon makes an incision and places an implant either under the chest muscle or underneath the breast tissue.

Benefits of Breast Enlargement

Increased breast size.
Improved breast symmetry.
Enhanced self-esteem and body image.

What are the Risks of Breast Surgery?

As with any major surgery, there are several potential risks and complications with breast augmentation procedures. More generally, these risks include infections, swelling, pain/discomfort and complications relating to the use of anaesthesia. There are also risks associated specifically with the type of breast augmentation procedure you choose to have. The risks associated with both a breast uplift and breast enlargement include:

Scarring: As a result of incisions made during surgery, scarring is unavoidable following surgery, but this should fade over time with proper care.
Changes in breast or nipple sensation: This change in sensation can occur if there is damage to the nerves during surgery or because of tissue trauma that occurs during the surgical process.
Difficulty breastfeeding: In some cases, women have trouble breastfeeding if they’ve had breast surgery as a result of damage to the nerves connecting to the nipple. If the milk ducts or glands within the breast are damaged, this can also cause difficulty. Pressure from a large breast implant under the breast tissue can also negatively impact milk production.
Implant leakage or rupture: Both silicone and saline implants can rupture and leak over time. This isn’t common but will require additional surgery to have your implants removed and replaced.

Upon making your decision on whether to have a breast uplift or enlargement, it’s important you have a full understanding of the risks associated with both. Your surgeon should discuss these risks with you during any initial consultation.

Making the Decision

Deciding between a breast uplift and breast enlargement depends on your personal goals and current breast situation:

If your breasts have lost their perkiness or have started to sag, but you're content with their size, then a breast uplift could be the right choice.
If you're primarily concerned with the size of your breasts and would like them to be larger, then breast enlargement might be the solution.
If you're unhappy with both the size and the sag of your breasts, a combination of both procedures (called augmentation mastopexy) might be most appropriate.

Remember, before deciding, it is crucial to consult with a GMC (General Medical Council) registered plastic surgeon who can assess your individual circumstances and guide you through the decision-making process. Your health and satisfaction should always be the top priority.