A breast lift (mastopexy) is recommended for women with sagging breast. In this procedure, the skin of the breast is tightened by removing the excess skin. The process does not enlarge the breasts - enlargement requires implants. The incisions, generally made at the bottom of the breast and around the nipple, can be shaped like a T, Q, or L. Recovery can take 7 to 14 days and the incision lines typically fade within several weeks. Possible risks are swelling, bruising, bleeding, scarring and loss of nipple sensation.

Breast Augmentation is recommended for women who want to increase the size of their breast or to correct an imbalance in the size of their breast. This procedure does not tighten the breast or raise the nipple.

For the procedure, an incision is made in any one of the following places: the crease below the breast, around the areola, under the armpit or (very rarely) through the navel. The breast tissue is lifted, creating a pocket below the breast, and an implant is inserted.

Several types of implant are available. Most breast augmentation surgeries today use a type made of a silicone rubber sack filled with a saline solution. New to the market are saline-filled adjustable implants that can be modified by the physician after the initial procedure to increase or reduce the size of the implants.

Most likely, the anesthesia you receive will be general, although some doctors use a local anesthetic along with a sedative. Anesthesia type should be discussed with your doctor during the initial consultation.

Breast augmentation is a "same-day" procedure. It generally takes 1-1/2 - 2-1/2 hours.Patients usually return to work within a few days. Complete healing of the scars will depend upon the individual.