Breast Augmentation Combined with Breast Lift a.k.a. Augmentation Mastopexy according to Seattle Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Lisa Lynn Sowder

Some women desire a change in both the size and shape of their breasts. Many of these women have had atrophy and sagging of the breast following childbearing and breast feeding or have lost a substantial amount of weight. There are also some developmental abnormalities of the breast that can result in a small and saggy breast in a young woman. A breast lift combined with a breast augmentation can restore the fullness and shape of the breasts.

Quick facts:

• Costs:  $8000 – $1400 depending on the extent and length of surgery and the type of implants used.
• Post-operative pain:  moderate.
• Time off work or school: 1 week.
• Time off driving:  5 – 7 days or once you are off narcotic pain meds.
• Time off the gym:  4 weeks.
• Time off the slopes:  6 weeks.
• Time off the kite board: 8 weeks.
• How long an augmentation mastopexy lasts:  10 – 20 years or until you have another baby and/or a significnt weight change.
• Patient satisfaction:  high

And here’s the fine print:

Breast implants can be placed at the same time as a breast lift and through the breast lift incision. Patients who have a lot of extra skin and resultant sagging of the breast usually need a full breast lift which leaves scars aound the nipple and under the breast. Patients with just a little sagging can often be treated with just a periareolar lift which leaves a scar just around the aerola.

Insurance does not cover this type of surgery unless it is being done for a developmental abnormality or to help with symmetry following breast reconstruction surgery following mastectomy.

Breast augmentation done at the same time as a full breast lift is a very tricky operation and the revision rate for this particular combination is fairly high. The issue is one of opposing forces. The implants puts pressure on the breast tissue and skin to stretch out but the lift wants the breast skin to tighten. In some patients I will recommend doing one procedure first, allow things to settle for 3 months or so and do the other procedure.

At the time of initial consultation, I examine the patient and determine which procedure(s) I recommend.  I perform this procedure in my AAAASF certified Seattle office operating room or at Seattle Surgery Center which is located next door to my office building. Patients go home the same day of surgery and usually take 1-2 weeks off of work. Most patients can return to most activities at one month. The scars usually fade with time so they are not very conspicuous.

Check out my blog on this topic.