If you’ve been wondering if you should have a breast lift or implants, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Nearly all women—especially after pregnancy, weight loss, or simply with time—start questioning: Do I need more volume? More lift? Or both?
This guide from Dr. David Liland, a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Dallas area with over 30 years of experience, is here to navigate you through the most significant differences, pros and cons, and real-world decision-making considerations to leave you feeling even more confident and ready.
Understanding the Basics
What Is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and re-contours drooping breasts by removing excess skin and firming the surrounding tissue. The surgery is often the optimal choice for women who enjoy their breast size but want a more youthful, more lifted shape.
[Explore our breast lift procedure page to learn more.]
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast augmentation, or breast implants, involves inserting saline or silicone implants to enhance the size, volume, and shape of breasts. It is most often sought by those who wish to have a curvier physique, either because of naturally small breasts or after loss of volume post-childbirth.
[Learn more about breast augmentation with implants.]
Breast Lift vs Implants: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Breast Lift | Breast Implants |
| Purpose | Lift and reshape | Add volume and fullness |
| Ideal for | Sagging, stretched skin | Loss of volume, naturally small breasts |
| Scarring | Around the areola and possibly vertically/down the breast | Small scar near the breast fold or armpit |
| Recovery | 1–2 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Result Longevity | Long-lasting, but can be affected by gravity/aging | Long-lasting, but implants may need future replacement |
How to Know Which Option You Need
Do You Want to Add Volume or Just Lift?
Are you most bothered by the fact that your breasts are “empty” or smaller than you’d like, then implants are probably your best bet. If you’re happy with your size but would like them lifted to a higher, more youthful position, a breast lift might be all you need.
Is Your Breast Tissue Sagging or Deflated?
Sagging without volume loss may call for a lift. Deflation or a “flat” upper breast may require implants, or both.
Are You Happy with Your Current Size?
Most women ask, “Should I get a breast lift or implants?” The answer often hinges on whether you’re happy with your current cup size. If you are, a lift will be enough. If not, you may benefit from augmentation.
Pros and Cons of Each Procedure
Pros and Cons of a Breast Lift
Pros:
- Restores perkiness and shape
- No foreign material involved
- More natural contour
Cons:
- Doesn’t add volume
- Scarring can be more visible
- It may need to be repeated as aging continues
Pros and Cons of Breast Implants
Pros:
- Adds fullness and cleavage
- Enhances overall breast shape
- Customizable sizes and profiles
Cons:
- Involves a foreign object
- Potential for future replacement or complications
- Doesn’t correct significant sagging on its own
Can You Combine Both Procedures?
What Is a Lift with Implants?
A combination method offers the best of both worlds—restoring a more youthful position with added volume. It’s especially beneficial for women who have experienced both sagging and volume loss.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Combo Approach?
Women with deflated, sagging breasts are good candidates for this technique. It’s also a popular option in a mommy makeover, which consolidates several post-pregnancy changes into one surgical plan.
[Explore our mommy makeover solutions.]
Making the Right Choice for Your Body
Factors to Discuss with Your Surgeon
- Your aesthetic goals
- Current breast size and shape
- Skin elasticity
- Whether future pregnancies or weight changes are expected
What to Expect During a Consultation
Dr. Liland will examine your anatomy, discuss your desires, and help you envision possibilities with before-and-after photos or computer imaging. There is no one correct answer, but a thoughtful consultation can make it obvious what makes the most sense for you.
Schedule a personal consultation to talk about your best options.
FAQs
What is better: breast lift or implants?
It depends on your goals. Want perkier breasts but like your size? Go for a lift. Want more volume? Consider implants. Need both? A combination may be best.
Do implants lift your breasts?
Not necessarily. Implants add volume but don’t correct significant sagging. A lift may still be required.
Is it safe to have both procedures at once?
Yes, when done by an experienced, board-certified surgeon, combining procedures is generally safe and common.
How long is the recovery for a breast lift with implants?
Most women can return to light activities within 1–2 weeks, with full results visible in a few months.
Will I have scars?
Yes, but they often fade significantly over time and can be well-hidden under bras and swimsuits.
Whether you choose a breast lift, implants, or both, your journey is deeply personal. What matters most is finding a solution that aligns with your goals, body, and sense of self.
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s explore your best-fit options together. Book your consultation with Dr. Liland in Dallas today.