The 5 Main Types of Breast Surgery

14 Oct

By Miss Jurga Pikturnaite and Mr Shaheel Chummun

Breast surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to address both aesthetic concerns and medical conditions. From breast reduction to gynaecomastia surgery, each type of surgery is tailored to individual needs and concerns, whether to relieve physical discomfort or enhance the appearance of the chest.

Common procedures include breast augmentation to increase size, breast lift to correct sagging, and augmentation mastopexy, which combines the benefits of both. Additionally, breast reconstruction helps restore the breast's shape after mastectomy, and gynaecomastia surgery addresses excess tissue in men. With these five main types of breast surgery, patients have more options than ever to achieve their desired results, both functionally and aesthetically. Read on to learn about each procedure and their benefits.

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1. Breast Reduction

What is Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a common procedure designed to relieve physical discomfort caused by large breasts. Many women opt for this surgery to alleviate back, neck, and shoulder pain, while others seek to improve the proportion and appearance of their breasts.

Aesthetic and Medical Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery offers numerous benefits, both medical and aesthetic. Medically, the procedure alleviates pain caused by the excess weight of large breasts, improving posture and allowing for a more active lifestyle. Women also report relief from skin irritation and rashes under the breast fold. Aesthetically, breast reduction and lift procedures reshape the breasts, creating a more proportionate and lifted appearance. This can lead to improved body confidence and the ability to wear a wider range of clothing.

What to Expect During Breast Reduction Recovery

Recovery from breast reduction surgery can take several weeks, and patients should expect a gradual healing process. Breast reduction recovery week by week typically involves some initial swelling and discomfort, managed with medication. In the first week, patients are encouraged to rest. By the second week, light activities can usually be resumed, but any strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 6 weeks. During this time a supportive soft unwired bra should be worn continuously. By the six-week mark, swelling should subside, though the final results may take a few months to become fully visible. Scarring will continue to improve for 12 to 18 months and is strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible.

For those considering breast reduction in England and Wales, it’s important to consult the qualified plastic surgeons at Emendo to better understand the full scope of the procedure, including the breast reduction cost, recovery time, and long-term benefits.

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2. Breast Augmentation

What is Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty or boob job, is an aesthetic procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. This can involve the use of breast implants, fat transfer or the use of both methods to achieve a harmonious, symmetrical look. This procedure is often sought for aesthetic reasons, but it can also be part of breast reconstruction after mastectomy for cancer patients.

Bristol Breast augmentation before and after — Before Breast Augmentation by Miss Jurga Pikturnaite

After Breast Augmentation by Miss Jurga Pikturnaite

Aesthetic and Medical Reasons for Breast Augmentation

Many women choose breast augmentation for aesthetic reasons, such as improving body proportions or enhancing their self-esteem. This procedure can also correct breast asymmetry or improve the overall contour of the chest after significant weight loss or pregnancy. In terms of medical reasons, breast reconstruction is often necessary for patients who have undergone a mastectomy. It can restore the appearance of the breast and improve emotional recovery.

What to Expect During Breast Augmentation Recovery

Breast augmentation recovery varies depending on the individual and the surgical technique used. Generally, patients can expect to return to light activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks. Proper aftercare is crucial, including wearing a supportive bra and learning how to sleep after a breast augmentation, which typically involves sleeping on your back to avoid pressure on the implants. Full recovery can take around six to 12 weeks.

How Long Does Breast Augmentation Last?

While breast implants are durable, they are not designed to last a lifetime. Most implants last around 10 to 15 years, but some may need to be replaced earlier due to rupture, changes in shape, or personal preference. Regular check-ups with your surgeon will help ensure that the implants are still functioning properly.

Whether you’re considering fat transfer breast augmentation (also known as natural breast augmentation) or looking for implant breast augmentation surgeons in Bristol, Bath or Gloucestershire it’s crucial to do research and speak to our team to achieve the best results. Start a conversation with us today.

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3. Breast Lift Surgery

What is Breast Lift Surgery?

Woman holding breast, post breast lift britsol

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is an aesthetic procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a more youthful appearance. Unlike breast augmentation, which increases breast size, a surgical breast lift focuses on improving breast shape and position. This surgery is often chosen by women who experience drooping breasts due to ageing, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or breastfeeding.

How is a Breast Lift Performed?

A breast lift surgery typically involves the removal of excess skin and tightening of the surrounding tissue to raise the breasts and enhance their contour. The procedure may also reposition the nipple to achieve a more youthful look. The surgery can take 1.5 - 2.5 hours, depending on the technique used and the degree of lifting required. Common incision techniques include around the areola (doughnut incision) or a more extensive anchor-shaped incision for larger lifts. As with any surgery, mastopexy scars are expected but are meticulously placed and are expected to fade over time with proper care.

Why Get a Breast Lift?

There are several reasons why women opt for a breast lift. These include correcting sagging caused by age or weight changes, enhancing breast shape, and improving symmetry. A mastopexy can help restore confidence by giving the breasts a firmer, more elevated appearance without changing their size.

How Long is the Recovery for Breast Lift Surgery?

Recovery from a breast lift usually takes several weeks. In the first week, patients are advised to rest, wear supportive bras, and avoid heavy lifting or any strenuous exercise. Swelling and discomfort are common in the early stages, but most patients can resume light activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Full recovery and a return to normal activities, can take up to 6 to 12 weeks, while scar will continue to mature and settle over the next few months.

Can You Lift Breasts Naturally?

While there are no methods to achieve the same results as surgery, some natural approaches—such as strengthening chest muscles through exercise and wearing supportive bras—can provide minor lifting effects. However, these methods cannot correct significant sagging.

If natural methods failed to bring you the desired results, reach out to Emendo’s plastic surgeons in Bristol, Bath and Gloucestershire, and Wales to discuss your goals.

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4. Augmentation-Mastopexy

What is Augmentation-Mastopexy?

Augmentation mastopexy involves two main components: a breast lift (mastopexy) to reshape and elevate the breasts and breast augmentation (breast implants or fat transfer) to increase their size and fullness. This combination offers the benefits of improved contour and volume in a single stage surgery. The implants can be silicone or saline, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.

Breast Augmentation-Mastopexy Recovery: What to Expect

Recovery from augmentation-mastopexy can take a little longer than recovery from separate breast augmentation and lift procedures. During the first few days after surgery, patients will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Wearing a supportive bra is crucial during the recovery period. Breast augmentation-mastopexy recovery can take around 6 - 12 weeks, with most patients able to return to light activities after 1 to 2 weeks.

What to Expect After Augmentation Mastopexy

After surgery, patients will notice an immediate improvement in breast shape and volume, although swelling will initially obscure the final results. It is important to follow post-surgery care instructions, including sleeping on your back and avoiding strenuous activity for several weeks. As the swelling subsides, the final outcome will become more apparent, with improved breast positioning and a fuller shape.

To learn more about the cost, recovery process, and to discuss your goals for breast augmentation surgery, contact Emendo Surgical Group.

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5. Correction of Gynaecomastia

Man's chest contemplating gynecomastia surgery uk

What is correction of Gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia is a condition in which men develop enlarged breast tissue, often caused by hormonal imbalances, genetics, or weight gain. While it is common during puberty, it can persist into adulthood, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress. Men's breast reduction surgery is an effective solution for this condition, helping to remove excess fat and tissue to restore a flatter, more masculine chest appearance.

For more information about male breast reduction surgery, please read our other blog here.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're considering breast surgery, making an informed decision is key.

Our expert team at Emendo is here to help you understand the options and tailor a solution that meets your aesthetic and medical needs. Schedule a consultation today for breast surgery in Bath, Bristol or Gloucestershire to discuss your transformative goals that boosts both your comfort and confidence.