Introduction
Postpartum breast sagging is a common concern for many new mothers in New York City. Thankfully, there are numerous plastic hospitals and surgeons that specialize in restoring the appearance of sagging breasts. In this article, we will explore some of the top plastic surgeons and hospitals in NYC that offer effective solutions for postpartum breast sagging, delving into the procedures they offer, the qualifications of the surgeons, and what patients can expect during and after the treatment.
What Causes Postpartum Breast Sagging?
Before we dive into the list of plastic hospitals, it's essential to understand what causes postpartum breast sagging. Gravity is a constant factor, but pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly exacerbate the issue. During pregnancy, the breasts increase in size due to hormonal changes and milk production. The skin and ligaments stretch to accommodate this growth. After breastfeeding stops, the milk ducts shrink, and the volume may decrease, leaving the skin and ligaments less elastic. According to Rapaport Plastic Surgery, age, weight, breast size, and multiple pregnancies also increase the risk of breast sagging.
Top Plastic Surgeons and Their Practices for Restoring Postpartum Sagging Breasts in NYC
Dr. William Lao
- Introduction: Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon based on 5th avenue in NYC. He has over a decade of experience and has been listed as a top doc in the aesthetic magazine, New Beauty.
- Procedure Offered: He specializes in mommy makeovers, which often include breast procedures like breast augmentation, breast lift, or a combination of both. The mommy makeover is a group of surgical procedures that target the abdomen and breasts to reverse postpartum changes.
- Patient Experience: Dr. Lao takes the time to listen to patients' concerns and formulates a personalized surgical plan. Patients have praised his kindness, professionalism, and the amazing results of their surgeries.
- Cost and Recovery: The cost of a mommy makeover in New York City typically starts at $12,000 and can range up to $20,000 or more, depending on the specific procedures. The surgery usually takes 4 - 6 hours under general anesthesia. Patients are advised to take 7 to 10 days off work and avoid heavy lifting and swimming for 6 weeks.
Dr. Darrick E. Antell
- Introduction: Dr. Antell is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience performing mommy makeovers in NYC. He has been repeatedly recognized as a “top plastic surgeon” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine.
- Procedure Offered: His mommy makeovers can include breast augmentation to combat volume loss, breast lift (mastopexy) to address sagging, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), lower body lift, and liposuction. Each procedure is customized to the patient's needs.
- Patient Experience: Dr. Antell takes a conservative approach, understanding that minor adjustments can lead to significant improvements. Patients appreciate the high - level of care, competence, and professionalism they receive at his practice.
- Cost and Recovery: While specific costs depend on the combination of procedures, Dr. Antell's office can provide a tailored quote during the consultation. Recovery typically takes longer than a single treatment but is shorter overall than having each procedure separately. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least six weeks and usually return to work around the third week after surgery.
Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine
- Introduction: At Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine offer a comprehensive range of treatments for postpartum changes. They use a multidisciplinary approach, combining plastic surgery and dermatology expertise.
- Procedure Offered: For breast restoration, they offer breast lift (mastopexy), breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty), and these can be done individually or in combination. Additionally, they provide treatments for stretch marks, red spots, varicose veins, skin growths, and post - pregnancy skin care.
- Patient Experience: The doctors work together to design a customized treatment plan for each patient. They also offer unique pre - and post - surgery skin care packages to optimize results and promote faster healing.
- Cost and Recovery: Costs vary depending on the specific procedures. The recovery time for each procedure also differs. For example, a tummy tuck may require 10 - 14 days off work, while a breast lift may allow patients to return to work in about 1 week.
Surgeons at Mount Sinai
- Introduction: Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution in NYC. Their surgeons are highly qualified and experienced in performing breast lift procedures.
- Procedure Offered: A breast lift (mastopexy) at Mount Sinai can reverse the effects of time, childbirth, or weight loss, providing firmer, more rounded, and shapelier breasts. It can also restore fullness, balance breast height, and enhance the results of other breast enhancement surgeries.
- Patient Experience: The procedure can be a positive and rewarding experience, with results that refresh the patient's overall appearance and self - confidence. However, if a patient is considering future pregnancies, the surgeon may suggest delaying the surgery.
- Cost and Recovery: Specific costs are determined during the consultation. Recovery details are provided by the surgical team based on the patient's individual situation.
Dr. Philip Miller at Gotham Plastic Surgery
- Introduction: Dr. Philip Miller at Gotham Plastic Surgery is known for creating custom treatment plans. The practice uses minimally - invasive techniques and advanced technology to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
- Procedure Offered: For breast sagging, they offer breast lift (mastopexy), which can be combined with breast augmentation using implants for increased volume and firmness. They can also reduce the size of large areolas if necessary.
- Patient Experience: Patients from all over the world have had amazing body transformations at Gotham. The surgeons apply their skill and expert technique to provide natural - looking results.
- Cost and Recovery: Costs are customized based on the procedure. The recovery time depends on the extent of the surgery, but patients can expect guidance from the medical team throughout the process.
Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg
- Introduction: Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg offers consultations at seven convenient locations in Manhattan, New York City, as well as other locations in New Jersey, Long Island, and Florida.
- Procedure Offered: He specializes in breast lift (mastopexy) procedures. Depending on the degree of breast drooping, he uses different incision techniques such as peri - areolar (donut lift), vertical (lollipop lift), and inverted t (anchor lift). Breast implants can also be inserted during the lift to give the breasts a fuller look.
- Patient Experience: Dr. Greenberg uses the Vectra XT 3D imaging solution to help patients visualize the possible results of the procedure. Patients often report improved body image and better - fitting clothing after the surgery.
- Cost and Recovery: The cost of the breast lift depends on the extent of the surgery. Dr. Greenberg can avoid costly hospital fees by performing procedures in his own ambulatory center. Patients usually return home after a short stay in the recovery suite and can get back to work in about three to four days and start working out in the gym in about three to four weeks.
Dr. Adam Kolker
- Introduction: Dr. Adam Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York. He is an active member of multiple professional societies and has vast experience in breast lift procedures.
- Procedure Offered: His breast lift surgery can address various issues such as breast droop, deflation, and areola enlargement. He can perform the lift using native tissues only or combine it with breast augmentation using implants to restore volume.
- Patient Experience: Dr. Kolker tailors each breast lift procedure to the patient's anatomy and desires. Patients have given numerous positive testimonials, highlighting his expertise and the life - changing results of the surgery.
- Cost and Recovery: The cost is determined based on the specific procedure and requirements. The breast lift is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Patients are advised to take one week off from work or strenuous activity. Regular bras and bathing suit tops can be worn after three to four weeks, and the breasts settle into their final shape at approximately 12 weeks.
Common Procedures for Restoring Postpartum Sagging Breasts
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts. It involves removing excess skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and repositioning the nipples to a more youthful position. Different incision techniques are used depending on the degree of breast sagging. For mild to moderate sagging, a peri - areolar (donut lift) or vertical (lollipop lift) incision may be used. In cases of severe sagging, an inverted t (anchor lift) incision is often required. According to multiple sources, a breast lift can significantly improve the appearance of sagging breasts, but it may make the breasts appear slightly smaller.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is used to increase breast volume. It involves inserting saline or silicone implants to restore the fullness lost after pregnancy or breastfeeding. Breast augmentation can be done alone or in combination with a breast lift. For women with small breasts or significant volume loss, combining the two procedures can achieve a more youthful and attractive breast shape.
Combined Procedures
Many plastic surgeons offer combined procedures, such as a mommy makeover, which typically includes a breast procedure (augmentation, lift, or both) and a tummy tuck. This approach allows patients to address multiple postpartum concerns in a single surgery, resulting in a more comprehensive restoration of their pre - pregnancy body shape.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon and Hospital
When choosing a plastic surgeon and hospital for restoring postpartum sagging breasts, several factors should be considered:
- Qualifications: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified and has extensive experience in performing breast procedures. Check their membership in professional organizations and any awards or recognitions they have received.
- Patient Reviews: Read patient testimonials and reviews to get an idea of the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of their work, and the patient experience. Real - patient before - and - after photos can also be helpful in assessing the surgeon's skills.
- Customization: Look for a surgeon who takes the time to understand your specific goals and formulates a personalized treatment plan. Avoid surgeons who offer a one - size - fits - all approach.
- Facility Accreditation: Make sure the surgical facility is accredited and meets all safety standards. A well - equipped and modern facility can contribute to a safer and more successful surgery.
- Cost and Financing: While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to understand the pricing structure and any available financing options. Some surgeons offer payment plans or work with financing companies to make the procedure more affordable.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from breast procedures can vary depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient. In general, patients can expect some pain, swelling, and bruising in the initial days after surgery. Surgeons usually prescribe pain medication and recommend wearing a support bra to aid in recovery. Here is a general timeline for recovery:
- First few days: Patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity. They may need assistance with daily tasks. Incisions will be covered with dressings, and drainage tubes may be in place.
- First week: Most patients can return to light activities, but they should still avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise. Suture removal may occur during this time if non - dissolvable sutures were used.
- 2 - 4 weeks: Swelling and bruising will gradually subside. Patients can usually return to work, depending on the nature of their job. Some may be able to start light exercise, but it's important to follow the surgeon's instructions.
- 4 - 6 weeks: Most normal activities can be resumed, but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should still be avoided. The breasts will continue to settle into their final shape.
- 3 - 6 months: The full results of the surgery will become apparent. Patients may need to continue wearing a support bra during this time. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
Conclusion
Restoring postpartum sagging breasts is a common goal for many women in New York City, and there are numerous highly qualified plastic surgeons and hospitals that can help achieve this. From breast lift procedures to combined mommy makeovers, each option is tailored to meet the specific needs of the patient. By carefully considering the qualifications of the surgeon, patient reviews, customization options, facility accreditation, and cost, patients can make an informed decision and choose the right provider for their journey to restoring their pre - pregnancy body. Remember, it's important to have realistic expectations and to follow the surgeon's instructions during the recovery process for the best possible results.
If you're struggling with postpartum breast sagging, we encourage you to take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of the reputable plastic surgeons in NYC mentioned in this article. Don't let sagging breasts affect your self - confidence any longer. Take control of your body and start your journey towards a more youthful and confident you!