Breast lift vs breast liposuction depends on your anatomy and goals: a breast lift is best for women with significant sagging and low nipple position, while breast liposuction may benefit certain women who want smaller, lighter breasts without the visible scars associated with traditional mastopexy.
In this post, I’ll explain who is a good candidate for breast liposuction instead of a breast lift, what results are realistic, and what recovery typically looks like.
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What Is Breast Liposuction?
Breast liposuction is a technique that reduces breast size by removing fatty tissue through a thin suction tube, called a cannula. The scars from this cannula are tiny—about 4 mm, and hidden under the breast, so they’re virtually invisible once healed.
Like liposuction performed on other areas of the body, this approach reduces volume rather than tightening skin. Because of that, it’s not a replacement for a traditional breast lift or breast reduction in every patient, but it can be a suitable option for women who meet specific criteria.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Breast Liposuction vs. Breast Lift?
Good candidates for breast liposuction are women whose breasts are enlarged primarily due to fatty tissue and who do not have severe sagging. When fat is removed, the skin envelope remains and contracts only to a limited degree, especially in patients in their 50s and 60s, whose skin elasticity has naturally declined.
In general, ideal candidates:
- Want to reduce breast size by about 1 to 2 cup sizes
- Have nipples that point forward rather than downward
- Have mild to moderate sagging, not significant skin excess
- Want to avoid the scars associated with a traditional breast lift
Many women come to my office during menopause, complaining that breast enlargement makes them look heavier or matronly… and nobody wants that! They would like a smaller cup size to look slimmer and more youthful but prefer not to undergo a breast lift. Breast liposuction may be an appropriate and satisfying option when anatomy allows.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Liposuction?
Recovery after breast liposuction is usually faster and easier than recovery after a traditional breast lift. Because there are no long incisions to heal, most patients experience soreness during the first week.
Typical recovery guidelines include:
- Wearing a snug compression bra for 2 to 3 weeks
- Working from home after a few days
- Returning to the office within about 1 week
High-impact cardio is usually restricted for 3 weeks. Walking or using a stationary bike is encouraged during that time. For gym rats who like to lift, my general guideline is also 3 weeks. However, lower-body and core workouts are typically permitted after 1 week.
How Much Does Breast Liposuction Cost?
The typical cost range for breast liposuction is approximately $7,000 to $10,000, depending on the extent of treatment and whether one or both breasts are addressed. Breast liposuction is generally more affordable than a traditional mastopexy. In smaller cases, it can often be performed using twilight anesthesia in our in-office operating room. Learn more about our cosmetic surgery pricing and convenient financing options.
Can Breast Liposuction Help With Breast Asymmetry?
Yes, another bonus of breast liposuction is that it can be especially helpful for women with noticeable breast asymmetry. In some cases, liposuction can be performed on only the larger breast to improve balance. In others, both breasts are treated, with more fat removed from one side.
The goal is not perfect symmetry, but breasts that look natural and harmonious. As we often say, they should be sisters, not twins.
Speak With a Breast Specialist in Columbus, Ohio
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast surgery, I specialize in helping women choose solutions that deliver beautiful, natural-looking results.
If you’re curious about which breast procedure is right for you, the next step is an in-person or virtual consultation. Complete the online form or call us at (614) 569-2649 to schedule an appointment.
Breast Wishes!
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