Breast Lift and Augmentation: Can You Combine Both?

Have you ever wondered if it would be possible to address two breast concerns with a single surgical procedure? 

Many women share this question—especially those who notice both volume loss and sagging after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or simply over the years.

The good news is that yes, combining breast lift and augmentation in one surgery has not only proven possible but has also become an increasingly common practice in plastic surgery offices across the United States. 

According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more than 145,000 breast augmentation procedures were performed in 2023, and a significant portion of those cases involved a combination with a lift.

What happens when you combine both procedures?

When referring to breast lift and augmentation, it involves the combination of two distinct techniques. 

The breast lift (mastopexy) repositions sagging tissue and removes excess skin, while the augmentation adds volume using implants or, in some cases, fat transfer.

At Illusions Plastic Surgery, patients frequently seek this combined approach. Surgeons note that women between the ages of 30 and 50 often fit this profile—breasts that have lost both firmness and volume.

How the combined surgery works

During the procedure, the plastic surgeon begins by removing excess skin and repositioning the breast tissue. Next, the implant is inserted—either above or below the muscle, depending on the chosen surgical plan. The average duration usually ranges between two and four hours under general anesthesia.

At Illusions Plastic Surgery, each surgery receives a personalized plan. The surgeon evaluates skin elasticity, the degree of ptosis (sagging), and the ideal volume for the patient’s body. This preoperative assessment helps determine the type of incision and implant shape, avoiding excessive tension on the sutures and promoting a natural contour.

The initial recovery typically involves seven to ten days of light rest, with the use of a surgical bra and limited arm movement.

Why do women choose to combine these procedures?

You’re probably wondering what the real advantages of this combination might be. 

Let’s explore the main reasons:

• Single recovery: Undergoing one surgery means going through a single recovery period instead of two separate ones. This often results in less time away from work and reduced costs related to anesthesia and surgical facilities.
  
• Harmonious results: When performed simultaneously, the surgeon can create a more balanced and natural-looking outcome, adjusting the breasts’ position, shape, and volume at the same time.
  
• Cost-effectiveness: Although the initial investment may be higher than having just one procedure, combining both typically becomes more economical than undergoing two separate surgeries.

Who can benefit from this combination?

Not every patient is an ideal candidate for combining breast lift and augmentation. Plastic surgeons evaluate several factors before recommending the dual procedure.

You may be a good candidate if you have:

• Moderate to severe breast sagging
  
• Significant loss of breast volume
  
• Nipples pointing downward
  
• Stretched skin or excess tissue
  
• Good overall health and realistic expectations
  

The initial evaluation at the clinic allows the surgeon to measure the degree of breast ptosis (sagging) and determine whether both procedures are truly necessary. 

Some women find that implants alone can provide the desired lift, while others genuinely benefit from the full combination.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery from a combined breast lift and augmentation usually requires more care than each procedure performed separately. 

You can expect:

1. First week: Moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Most patients return to light activities after 7 to 10 days.
   
2. Second and third month: Gradual reduction of swelling. Light exercise can typically be resumed after medical approval.
   
3. Six months: Final results begin to settle, although minor changes may continue for up to a year after surgery.

The team at Illusions Plastic Surgery provides detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Which implants work best with a lift?

Choosing the right implant plays an important role in surgical planning. You’ll have options such as:

• Silicone implants: Offer a more natural feel and are popular among patients seeking a soft, realistic appearance. According to the FDA, modern silicone implants have approved safety profiles.
  
• Saline implants: Filled with sterile saline solution, they allow volume adjustments during surgery and typically require smaller incisions.
  
• Different profiles: Low, medium, high, or extra-high—each profile provides a different level of projection and suits various body types.

The surgeon will consider your chest structure, existing breast tissue, and aesthetic goals to recommend the most appropriate implant type and size.

How much does it cost to combine both procedures?

The financial investment for a combined breast lift and augmentation can vary significantly depending on several factors. 

In the United States, the average cost ranges between $10,000 and $15,000, according to data from the ASPS.

This amount usually includes:

• Surgeon’s fees
  
• Surgical facility costs
  
• Anesthesia
  
• Implants
  
• Surgical bras and medications
  
• Follow-up appointments
  

It’s important to note that these procedures are rarely covered by insurance, as they are considered elective and cosmetic.

Are the results permanent?

While the results of a breast lift and augmentation are long-lasting, it’s important to understand that no procedure can completely stop the effects of aging and gravity.

Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. The FDA recommends that women with silicone implants undergo regular MRI scans to monitor their integrity. Many patients choose to replace or remove their implants after 10 to 15 years.

Factors such as weight fluctuations, future pregnancies, and genetics can also influence the longevity of your results.

Read more:

👉 Breast Implant Revision Surgery: When and why to consider replacement

Is it worth combining the procedures?

For many women, the answer tends to be a confident yes. Patient satisfaction with combined breast lift and augmentation procedures remains consistently high, especially when expectations are clearly aligned during preoperative consultations.

You may want to consider this option if you’re looking to enhance both the shape and volume of your breasts, willing to invest in the procedure, and able to dedicate the proper time for recovery.

At Illusions Plastic Surgery, every patient receives individualized attention and a personalized treatment plan. The clinic’s board-certified surgeons in West Palm Beach, FL, focus on achieving natural, balanced, and long-lasting results that complement each woman’s body. From your first consultation to the post-operative follow-up, the team ensures that your journey feels safe, informed, and empowering.

A thoughtful consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon helps determine whether this combination truly matches your goals. For many women, it represents more than a physical transformation — it restores confidence, comfort, and a renewed sense of self.

FAQ — Breast lift and augmentation