Breast lift (mastopexy) and breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) are both surgical procedures aimed at improving the appearance of the breasts, but they address different concerns and involve different techniques:1. Breast Lift (Mastopexy):• Purpose: A breast lift is primarily performed to address sagging or ptosis of the breasts. It reshapes and elevates the breasts to create a more youthful and lifted appearance.• Procedure: During a breast lift, excess skin is removed, and the breast tissue is reshaped and repositioned to lift the breasts to a higher position on the chest. The nipples and areolas may also be repositioned to a more aesthetically pleasing location.• Incisions: The incision pattern for a breast lift depends on the degree of ptosis and the desired outcome. Common incision patterns include periareolar (around the areola), vertical (lollipop), and anchor-shaped (wise pattern).• Breast Volume: A breast lift does not significantly change the volume or size of the breasts. It primarily addresses sagging and improves breast shape and position.2. Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty):• Purpose: A breast reduction is performed to reduce the size and volume of the breasts, as well as to alleviate symptoms associated with overly large breasts, such as back pain, neck pain, and skin irritation.• Procedure: During a breast reduction, excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed to achieve a smaller breast size and a more proportionate breast-to-body ratio. The breasts are reshaped and lifted as part of the procedure.• Incisions: Similar to a breast lift, a breast reduction may involve periareolar, vertical, or anchor-shaped incisions, depending on the amount of tissue to be removed and the desired outcome.• Breast Volume: Unlike a breast lift, which primarily addresses sagging without significant changes in breast volume, a breast reduction results in a reduction in breast size and volume.In summary, while both breast lift and breast reduction surgeries involve reshaping and lifting the breasts, the primary difference lies in their objectives: a breast lift focuses on addressing sagging, while a breast reduction focuses on reducing breast size and volume in addition to lifting the breasts. The choice between these procedures depends on the individual's specific concerns, goals, and anatomical characteristics, and it is typically determined through a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
