When you’re considering ways to refresh your silhouette, two of the most common suggestions are breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation. They can be performed alone or together, but they’re designed for different purposes.
As a double board-certified, Harvard-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Randall O. Craft has performed countless breast surgeries, helping women achieve natural-looking and confidence-restoring results.
Drawing on this experience and the latest guidance from leading organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, this article breaks down the essential differences between a breast lift and a breast augmentation—so you can feel informed and empowered as you consider your options.
The Core Differences
- Breast lift (mastopexy): reshapes and raises the breast by removing excess skin and tightening tissues; it does not add volume on its own. Think position, shape, and perkiness.
- Breast augmentation: adds volume with implants or your own fat (fat transfer) to increase size and enhance fullness; it does not correct moderate-to-significant sagging by itself.
What Each Procedure is Designed to Do
Breast Lift
- Lifts and recontours the breast; can resize/reshape the areola if needed
- Common incision patterns (tailored to your anatomy): periareolar (“donut”), vertical (“lollipop”), or anchor
- Ideal if your nipple sits at or below the breast crease, or if postpartum/weight changes left you feeling “deflated,” but you like your overall size
Breast Augmentation
- Increases size and projection using implants (saline or silicone) or fat transfer
- Implant placement can be above or below the muscle; incision sites vary (inframammary fold, periareolar, or transaxillary), selected to match your goals and anatomy
Practical Considerations
- Breastfeeding: Many people can breastfeed after breast surgery, but prior procedures and incision location can matter. Discuss your plans in advance so we can optimize technique and set expectations.
- Mammograms & imaging: After any breast procedure, continue age-appropriate screening. Implants may require additional views; silicone implants may need periodic MRI/ultrasound to check integrity.
- Recovery:
- Lift: typically outpatient; return to desk work in ~1 week; avoid high-impact activity for several weeks while tissues settle.
- Augmentation: outpatient; initial soreness/swelling for days to weeks; most resume light activity within ~1–2 weeks, with full activities later per surgeon guidance.
Which Option Best Fits Your Goals?
- Choose a lift if the main issue is shape/position (sagging, stretched skin, downward-pointing nipples) and you’re content with your current volume
- Choose augmentation if you want more volume, roundness, or upper-pole fullness—and you have little to no ptosis (sag)
- Consider a lift + augmentation together if you want both elevation and added size/fullness in one plan
Breast Lift or Breast Augmentation? We’re Here to Help You Decide.
Choosing between a breast lift, augmentation, or a combination of both is a highly personal decision. At CraftMD, Dr. Randall O. Craft—double board-certified, Harvard-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon—takes the time to understand your goals, assess your unique anatomy, and design a plan that balances artistry with safety.
During your private consultation, you can preview potential outcomes with Crisalix 3D imaging, review real patient results, and receive clear guidance tailored to your lifestyle and vision.
Your transformation begins with a single conversation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at CraftMD in Phoenix.
