Breast Lift or Breast Augmentation with Implants?

Dr Marcus Pyragius
Dr Marcus Pyragius

One of the more common questions women ask when considering breast surgery, is will a breast lift be enough or do they want a breast augmentation with implants? Dr Marcus Pyragius is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Adelaide and is highly regarded for his breast surgery. He has a reputation for listening carefully to his patients in order to best achieve the results they are after. We asked him about reasons why people might consider one type of breast surgical procedure over another.

PSH: What is the more popular procedure you perform – breast lift, breast augmentation or both?

Dr Pyragius: The most popular aesthetic breast procedures that I perform include Breast Augmentation (implants) and Breast Augmentation Mastopexy (implant & lift). A mastopexy (breast lift) is also a relatively common procedure.

PSH: How does a woman know which one is going to suit her better and ultimately choose which procedure will give her the results she wants?

Dr Pyragius:The most suitable procedure for any woman depends on the size and shape of their existing breasts and what look they would ultimately like to achieve in terms of breast size and shape.

A woman is suitable for a breast lift if she will be satisfied with the remaining breast volume after the skin has been tightened and excess skin removed. However, if the remaining breast volume is insufficient, then a breast augmentation with implant will be required. Depending on the amount of breast sag, a breast lift may additionally be required with the implant.

These are some key factors involved in the decision making process. Additionally, there are many other elements that determine the most appropriate procedure which your surgeon will take into consideration.

PSH: What are some questions you ask a woman at a consultation to better determine which shape, size or breast procedure will get her the results she wants?

Dr Pyragius: Why are you considering breast surgery?
Are you happy with your current breast size, or do you want to go bigger or smaller?
How do you feel about your breast shape, your cleavage and upper breast fullness?
Are you comfortable with where your nipples sit on your breasts??

PSH: What are the most common concerns you hear from women when they have a breast surgery consultation?

Dr Pyragius: I often get asked;
Will there be any discomfort after the surgery?
What is the recovery period?
How long will it be before I can return to work?
How long before I can return to exercise?

PSH: What are the risks associated with breast implants?

Dr Pyragius: With breast implant surgery the possibility of any complications occurring are rare. The risks associated with implants include: haematoma, infection, capsular contracture, malposition and rupture. I ensure that I address all of the potential risks and patient concerns during the consultation. Patient’s are given an opportunity to ask any additional questions at a second consultation prior to surgery.

PSH: Do you have any advice for women so they can be better prepared at their consultation with a plastic surgeon for breast surgery?

Dr Pyragius: My advice is to ensure that individuals are clear in their mind as to what they don’t like about their breasts and how they would like to improve their breasts. The plastic surgeon can then determine what procedure would best achieve their goals. Additionally, it is highly recommended to do prior research on the breast surgery of choice prior to any surgery. Background reading allows individuals to better understand the nature of the procedure and prepare any questions that may require clarification.

If you would like more information on Dr Pyragius check out his listing or the blogs below. If you would like to arrange a consultation give him a call on (08) 8267 4000.

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