Implants add volume, shape, upper pole fullness, and cleavage to the breasts. For certain patients with very mild sagging, the small “lift” provided by the breast implants’ volume may be sufficient to meet their goals for their breasts.
However, if your breasts appear deflated and/or your nipples rest at or below the crease at the base of your breast, then a breast lift may be necessary to create an ideal breast augmentation result. Breast implants alone will not raise the breasts higher on the chest, significantly change the position of your nipple areola complex, or address stretched tissues (which may not be able to sufficiently support an implant).
Further, a lift alone tends to create a sloping breast shape; those who prefer a more rounded upper breast will benefit from a breast lift with the addition of implants. In short, a breast lift addresses sagging (breast ptosis), while breast implants provide enhanced shape.