Breast Lift vs. Reduction: What’s The Difference?

On the surface, a breast lift and breast reduction sound like extraordinary different procedures. However, when looking at the incisions and techniques used, the two plastic surgeries look almost identical. Both surgeries remove excess skin and fat, may reposition the nipple, and often result in more lifted breasts. What is the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction? The answer to the difference between a breast lift and a breast reduction comes down to the goals of each procedure and the reasons for operating. A breast lift primarily targets sagging of the breasts and changes in shape due to age, breastfeeding, and volume/weight loss in the breasts. A breast reduction typically treats overly large breasts by reducing the size. Often, this can alleviate symptoms like back pain and rashes.  In short, a breast lift mainly addresses the shape and a breast reduction mainly addresses the size. While similar methods are used, the two procedures treat different concerns and conditions.Additionally, breast lift patients are typically women who have had children and experienced volume loss due to motherhood and age. Breast reduction is more common in younger patients who genetically have larger breasts. Therefore, breast occurs on breasts of all sizes, while breast reduction only treats breasts too large for a patient’s frame. To schedule a consultation, call us at 425-775-3561 or contact us online.