It can be difficult to decide whether to get breast augmentation surgery, breast lift surgery or both. But, Portland plastic surgery expert Dr. Michael Bohley can help. Do you want to achieve increased breast volume? Better breast shape? Both? Here is some information to help you decide.

When Breast Augmentation Is the Answer

Typically, breast augmentation with implants alone can correct small or sagging breasts when:

• Ptosis (drooping breasts) is mild
• The nipple is close to or in the center of the breast and does not point downward
• There is some noticeable skin below the areola when looking directly at the breasts from the front
• The patient wants increased breast volume

When Breast Lift Is the Answer

In general, patients can benefit from breast lift surgery when:

• Ptosis is moderate to severe
• The nipple points downward or has migrated toward the bottom of the breast
• There is no visible skin below the areola when looking directly at breasts from the front
• The patient does not want increased breast volume

When Combination Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift is the Answer

Combination breast augmentation and breast lift surgery is usually appropriate when patients want increased breast volume (and possibly a rounder breast profile that projects more significantly from the chest), and:

• Ptosis is moderate to severe
• The nipple points downward or has migrated toward the bottom of the breast
• There is no visible skin below the areola when looking directly at the breasts

Although this information can help you start thinking about the difference between increased breast volume and better breast shape, you should consult a qualified plastic surgeon before making any final decisions regarding cosmetic surgery. A highly experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Bohley can rely on his trained eye to help you determine which cosmetic surgery is right for you.

To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Bohley to learn more about your breast lift and/or augmentation options, please contact Dr. Bohley Cosmetic Surgery by calling (503) 253-3458 today.