Skip to main navigation
Society Logos

Do Breast Lifts Require Implants?

Posted September 30, 2025 in Breast Lift

Woman covering her breast with her hands

The specific details of both breast lift surgery and breast augmentation can sometimes be confusing, especially for new patients. This blog discusses breast lift surgery and how breast implants are not used when it is performed as a standalone procedure. However, implants can be added if the patient desires more volume.

4 Min Read:

Table of Contents

Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation

For those who have been considering breast surgery, it’s important to identify desired goals before committing to a particular procedure. Two of the most common breast surgeries are breast lift and breast augmentation—and they each create different results. Breast lift surgery is designed to elevate sagging breasts by eliminating excess tissue, reshaping the breasts, and tightening the skin. On the other hand, breast augmentation increases the size of the breasts using implants, creating a fuller and more voluminous bustline.

Breast lift surgery is often combined with breast augmentation for women who want to increase breast volume and address breast ptosis (sagging of the breasts). However, some patients may be more suitable candidates for one procedure over the other.

What Is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a surgical procedure that is used to address sagging breasts. During the procedure, excess sagging breast skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped for a more attractive contour, the nipple-areolar complex is raised, and the remaining skin is tightened. When performed as a standalone procedure, breast lift surgery does not involve breast implants.

Ideal candidates for breast lift surgery are typically women who have lost elasticity in their breasts due to weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or the natural aging process. These women may experience droopy, deflated breasts, as it is easy for breasts to lose their round and youthful shape once the skin sags.

Can I Get a Breast Lift Without Implants?

Yes, it is possible to get a breast lift without implants. The best candidates for a breast lift as a standalone procedure are women who are experiencing breast ptosis and want to elevate their breasts, while still keeping their natural breast size.

Who Should Get a Breast Lift With Implants?

Many women struggling with breast ptosis after pregnancy or weight loss also have experienced a loss of breast volume due to these life events. For those who wish to restore lost breast volume or simply increase their breast size to their ideal aesthetic, adding implants to a breast lift can be the perfect solution. Combining these two procedures offers comprehensive, enhanced results with total breast rejuvenation.

Silicone implants have an anatomical, teardrop-like shape and can be a great option for patients seeking a natural-looking and feeling implant. Saline implants may be preferable to those concerned about implant leaks and looking for a rounder implant shape.

The best way to determine if a breast lift, breast augmentation, or a combination of the two procedures is best is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast surgery. Dr. Robert Knowling checks all of these boxes as a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive breast surgery experience. For those in the Huntsville area or who are willing to travel to Alabama for breast surgery, contact Dr. Knowling’s office to set up a consultation.

Have More Questions About Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation in Huntsville, AL?

Navigating breast surgery and the various options can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Knowling in Huntsville, AL, by calling (256) 881-2220 or completing the online contact form.