NYC Plastic Surgeon Shares How Long You Should Wait After Breast Lift Surgery Before Receiving a Breast Augmentation

There are many reasons why an individual may consider plastic surgery procedures involving their breasts. For example, some pursue plastic surgery as a way to achieve their overall aesthetic goals or increase confidence in their body image, while others may want to relieve back or neck pain. 

In many cases, the desired outcomes can be achieved with one surgery. However, in some cases, additional work may be needed to ensure that individuals are happy with their long-term results. Breast augmentation with implants is one procedure that is sometimes undertaken by patients following a breast lift. 

But how long is it necessary to wait before taking the next steps? NYC-based and Harvard fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Maman pulls on his extensive experience to share his recommendations.    

What is a breast lift? 

A breast lift is a surgical procedure that involves removing loose and sagging breast tissue, repositioning the areola, and changing the overall contour of the breasts. 

You may decide to pursue a breast lift if you are unhappy with the following: 

• Downward-pointing nipples

• “Deflated” breast appearance due to breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging

• Skin irritation and painful chafing due to low-sitting or sagging breasts

• Uneven or asymmetrical breasts 

The size of the breasts cannot be altered by a breast lift alone, but the procedure can be combined with a breast augmentation or breast reduction to enhance or reduce your cup size according to your goals. 

What is breast augmentation surgery?

In contrast, breast augmentation surgery is a procedure in which breast implants or fat are inserted into the breasts to increase their size, correct their shape, or increase their symmetry. Breast augmentation may be used to enhance the appearance of individuals with naturally small breasts or to restore the appearance of the breasts after surgery, weight loss, breastfeeding, or natural aging.

Breast augmentation procedures usually use silicone breast implants, although saline implants are also an option. For individuals desiring a small change in breast size, qualified plastic surgeons may elect to transfer excess fat from the stomach or hips to the breasts instead of inserting an implant.

Breast augmentation is commonly combined with a breast lift to tighten the breast tissue and restore breast fullness. A breast augmentation may also be combined with liposuction and abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, in a mommy makeover procedure to enhance the firmness of the breasts and abdomen.

Are you a good candidate for breast augmentation after a breast lift? 

While a breast lift can lift and reshape the breasts, it may not restore the original size, especially for those without sufficient breast tissue. If your breast size has decreased following a breast lift and you would like to restore or enhance your breast size, you may consider getting breast implants. 

There is no perfect candidate for breast augmentation after a breast lift. Instead, each patient should talk about their objectives with a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon. In addition, the plastic surgeon can address any questions or concerns regarding physical and medical issues throughout their session.

Your unique anatomy and objectives will determine whether you are a candidate for breast augmentation following or combined with breast lift surgery. It is also advised that patients be non-smokers, in excellent health, and at a stable weight before the surgery.

How long should you wait to have your breast augmentation after a breast lift?

The short answer? Not long at all. In fact, many patients opt to have their breast lift and breast augmentation procedures performed concurrently in a single procedure. 

However, patients also have the option to undergo a two-stage procedure, in which the breast lift and breast augmentation are performed separately. In this scenario, you would undergo the standard recovery period for a breast lift, and then return to your plastic surgeon three to six months later for a breast augmentation. 

Single-stage procedure vs. two-stage procedure 

While a single-stage procedure is an appealing option for many, some may find that a two-stage procedure is more aligned with their goals and needs. 

With a two-stage procedure, there is a period of several months between the breast lift (stage one) and breast augmentation (stage two). During that time, scar tissue will form within the surgical pocket of the breast, which will provide added support for the implant. This is beneficial for patients who are prone to drooping breasts, have poor skin quality, or have insufficient breast tissue and would like to reduce their chances of breast ptosis—the medical term for drooping breast tissue.

The two-stage option may also be ideal for those who are on the fence about adding breast implants and would prefer to wait and see the results of their breast lift before pursuing an additional surgical procedure. 

If you are unsure whether a single-stage procedure or a two-stage procedure is right for you, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will assess your anatomy and address any questions and concerns you may have in order to recommend the procedure that best fits your needs. 

Your ideal aesthetic is within reach

When it comes to crafting your most confident self, it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon you can trust. Whether you are hoping for a standalone procedure or a package like our mommy makeover, you are in capable hands with Dr. Maman. Request a one-on-one consultation to start moving toward your aesthetic goals.