Two Stage Breast Lift with Augmentation

To ensure the best possible results now and in the future, Dr. Chad Wu may recommend separating combined breast procedures, such as breast lift and breast augmentation, into two stages. To help you understand and gain the knowledge you need to decide confidently, we evaluate the benefits of a one- or two-stage breast lift with augmentation at our downtown Toronto clinic.

What is a two-stage breast lift with augmentation?

As the name suggests, two-stage breast surgery is performed in two separate operations:

• Phase 1 – A breast lift to enhance and reshape existing breast tissue, creating an optimal foundation for the second phase.
• Phase 2 – A breast augmentation to redefine your breasts’ size, shape and appearance using breast implants.

In contrast, Dr. Chad Wu will perform both procedures simultaneously with one-stage breast surgery. All surgeries are performed at his downtown Toronto clinic.

How long should i wait between the two phases of my breast operation?

This will depend mainly on your individual healing process; however, At his downtown Toronto clinic, Dr. Chad Wu will generally recommend waiting six to twelve months between the two procedures to allow ample healing after your breast lift.

One-stage breast lift with breast augmentation

• A single surgical procedure
• Only one recovery period
• Results are visible more quickly.
• Higher risk of breast droop or sagging
• Scarring is generally more visible.
• Lower short-term financial expenses
• There is a higher risk of breast revision in the future.

Breast lift and two-stage breast lift with augmentation

• Two separate operations
• Two recovery periods
• Results not immediately visible
• Longer-lasting results – implants remain in a higher position longer.
• Scars are generally more minor, sharper and less visible than with a single-stage lift.
• Tighter cleavage and pronounced medial cleavage of the upper pole.
• Superior implant placement
• Higher implants can be used, as there is less pressure on the breast lift incisions.
• Improved breast symmetry, as the breasts have had time to stabilize and any asymmetry can be corrected in Phase 2.
• A safer option with less risk of infection, incision stretching or wound detachment.
• High short-term cost but potentially lower long-term breast revision costs.

When is a two-stage breast lift and augmentation recommended?

Breasts are prone to sagging (ptosis)

Breast implants add extra weight to the breasts. If your skin is prone to ptosis, breast implants will cause your breasts to sag over time. In two-stage breast surgery, the scar tissue that forms in the breast pocket during the recovery phase of the breast lift will create a stable base for the breast implants, minimizing the risk of further sagging.

Lack of skin quality

Poor skin elasticity is a matter of concern, as the skin has to stretch over an implant. This puts additional strain on the surgical incisions created during a breast lift and can lead to stretching of the scars around the nipples and in the middle of the breast.