Introduction
Breast ptosis, or sagging breasts, is a common concern for many women in New York City. It can be caused by various factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight fluctuations. Fortunately, there are plastic surgeons in the city who specialize in breast lift procedures, also known as mastopexy. In this article, we will provide an authoritative review of the top 4 plastic departments for breast ptosis lifting in New York City, highlighting their expertise, services, and patient satisfaction.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to correct breast ptosis by reshaping the breast tissue, tightening or removing excess skin, and repositioning the nipple and areola. The procedure can improve the appearance of sagging breasts, making them look more youthful, perky, and proportionate. There are different types of breast lift techniques, and the choice of technique depends on the severity of ptosis, the patient's anatomy, and the desired outcome. Some common types of incisions used in breast lift surgery include circumareolar, lollipop, and anchor incisions.
Top 4 Plastic Departments for Breast Ptosis Lifting in New York City
1. Maman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship-trained and board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. He and his skilled team collaborate throughout the introduction, examination, and planning process to achieve optimal results, personalized for each patient.
- Consultation: The 90-minute consultation with Dr. Maman includes a thorough review of the patient's medical history, an in-depth physical assessment, comprehensive and detailed operative plans, a review of cost, accommodations, and follow-up visits, and scheduling of surgery.
- Procedure and Recovery: Breast lift surgeries are performed using different incisions based on the patient's needs. After surgery, the clinic emphasizes convenience, comfort, and a smooth recovery, including luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels, complimentary custom post-operative support garments, and scar treatment regimens. Local patients can choose to recover at home or in the luxury recovery rooms. Recovery timelines vary, and the clinic provides thorough aftercare to ensure optimized results.
- Patient Testimonials: Patients praise Dr. Maman for his expertise, personalized care, and the natural-looking results he achieves. They feel confident in his abilities and are satisfied with the outcome of their breast lift surgeries.
2. William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan. He has performed over 500 successful breast plastic surgeries over the last 10 years and is a winner of the 2022 top doctor award from New Beauty.
- Techniques and Results: There are several types of breast lift techniques available at his practice, including augmentation mastopexy, circumareolar mastopexy, circumvertical mastopexy, and wise-pattern mastopexy. Surgery time is typically 2 - 3 hours, and patients can expect to return home on the day of surgery. Results are immediately visible, but the final results are seen in about 6 - 12 weeks as the breasts settle. Most patients return to work within 3 - 7 days.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Dr. Lao is known for his patient-centered approach. He takes the time to understand each patient's goals and needs, and he provides detailed information about the procedure, risks, and recovery. His office also offers personalized cost estimates during the consultation.
- Reviews: Patients appreciate Dr. Lao's skill, professionalism, and friendly demeanor. They report high levels of satisfaction with their breast lift results and the overall experience at his practice.
3. Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is a skilled and board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has extensive expertise in breast lift procedures and aims to provide exceptional outcomes for his patients.
- Specialized Expertise: He offers different breast lift techniques, including full mastopexy and periareolar mastopexy. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes about two to two and a half hours. The specific approach is tailored to the patient's gradation of ptosis.
- Recovery and Aftercare: After surgery, patients are monitored and can return home. The level of pain on the first night is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed medication. Swelling and bruising are common, and patients are provided with a surgical bra or compression garment. Sutures are removed within seven days, and it takes about a week or two to resume normal activities, with more strenuous activities avoided for a few additional weeks.
- Patient Success Stories: Many patients have achieved stunning results through Dr. Sherman's breast lift procedures. They report improved confidence and a more youthful appearance of their breasts.
4. Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and an active member of multiple professional organizations. He offers personalized breast lift procedures tailored to each patient's anatomy and desires.
- Customized Treatments: The choice of incision type depends on factors such as the degree of deflation, breast and nipple position, skin elasticity, and whether breast implants will be used. Dr. Kolker also offers the option of combining breast lift with breast augmentation if the patient desires increased volume.
- Recovery Process: The breast lift surgery is an outpatient procedure performed in his fully accredited surgical facility on Park Avenue. After surgery, patients are cared for in the recovery room and can be discharged home when fully awake. Dr. Kolker recommends taking one week off from work or strenuous activity. Sutures are dissolvable, and closed suction drainage tubes are removed between three and five days. A special bra is worn for about one week, followed by a sports bra, and regular bras can be worn after three to four weeks. The breasts settle into their final shape at approximately 12 weeks.
- Patient Testimonials: Patients highly recommend Dr. Kolker for his artistic vision, technical finesse, and personalized care. They are satisfied with the natural and beautiful results of their breast lift surgeries.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon for Breast Lift
Board Certification and Experience
It is crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast lift procedures. Board certification ensures that the surgeon has met the high standards of education, training, and ethical practice set by the relevant professional organizations. Experience also plays a significant role in achieving successful outcomes, as surgeons with more cases are likely to be more proficient in handling different situations and complications.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and patient satisfaction. Look for reviews on multiple platforms, such as the surgeon's website, third-party review sites, and social media. Pay attention to the overall sentiment, specific comments about the results, and the patient's experience during the consultation, surgery, and recovery process.
Techniques and Technology
Stay informed about the latest techniques and technologies used in breast lift surgery. A surgeon who keeps up with the advancements in the field is more likely to offer safer, more effective, and less invasive procedures. Ask the surgeon about the techniques they use, the benefits and risks associated with each technique, and how they tailor the approach to your specific needs.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of a breast lift can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, facility fees, and the complexity of the procedure. It is important to have a clear understanding of the total cost and what it includes. Some plastic surgery practices offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the procedure. Discuss these options with the surgeon's office during the consultation.
Preparing for a Breast Lift Procedure
Consultation and Medical Evaluation
Schedule a consultation with the chosen plastic surgeon. During the consultation, be prepared to discuss your medical history, including any previous surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, and medications you are taking. The surgeon will also perform a physical examination of your breasts to assess the degree of ptosis, the quality of your skin, and the position of your nipples and areolas. Based on this evaluation, the surgeon will recommend the most suitable breast lift technique for you and discuss the expected outcomes, risks, and recovery process.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle changes before the surgery can help improve the outcome and reduce the risk of complications. These may include quitting smoking, maintaining a stable weight, and avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on lifestyle modifications based on your individual circumstances.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions carefully. This may include getting laboratory tests and imaging studies, arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you during the initial recovery period, and preparing your home for a comfortable recovery. You may also be instructed to start or stop taking certain medications or supplements.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post-Operative Period
After the breast lift surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room until you are fully awake and stable. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon. You will also be given a surgical bra or compression garment to wear to support your breasts and reduce swelling.
Recovery Timeline
The recovery timeline can vary from person to person, but generally, you can expect to return to work and normal activities within a week or two, although strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks. It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside and for your breasts to settle into their final shape. Your surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines on when you can resume exercise, driving, and other activities.
Aftercare Instructions
Following your surgeon's aftercare instructions is essential for a successful recovery and optimal results. This may include keeping the incision sites clean and dry, avoiding exposing the incisions to direct sunlight, wearing the support bra as directed, and attending follow-up appointments. Your surgeon will also monitor your progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise during the recovery process.
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Lift
Like any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:
- Scarring: Incisions are necessary for breast lift surgery, and scarring is inevitable. However, experienced surgeons take steps to minimize scarring by choosing the appropriate incision technique and placing the incisions in less visible areas. Scars will gradually fade over time but may never completely disappear.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, such as numbness, tingling, or decreased sensitivity. This is usually more common in cases where the nipple-areolar complex is repositioned during the surgery.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision sites, which can be treated with antibiotics. To reduce the risk of infection, it is important to keep the incisions clean and follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions.
- Bleeding and Hematoma: Bleeding can occur during or after the surgery, leading to the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood). In some cases, a hematoma may require drainage.
- Asymmetry: It is possible for the breasts to be slightly asymmetrical after the surgery. This can be due to factors such as differences in the degree of ptosis before the surgery, the healing process, or individual anatomical variations. In most cases, minor asymmetry is normal and may not be noticeable. However, if significant asymmetry persists, additional surgery may be required to correct it.
- Unsatisfactory Results: Despite the surgeon's best efforts, the results of the breast lift may not meet your expectations. This can be due to factors such as unexpected healing responses, changes in the breast tissue over time, or unrealistic expectations on your part. It is important to have a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes and limitations of the surgery before making a decision.
Conclusion
Breast ptosis can have a significant impact on a woman's self-confidence and body image. Fortunately, breast lift surgery performed by experienced and qualified plastic surgeons in New York City can provide a solution to this problem. The top 4 plastic departments reviewed in this article - Maman Plastic Surgery, William Lao, MD, Dr. John E. Sherman, and Dr. Adam Kolker - offer expertise, personalized care, and a range of techniques to help patients achieve their desired results. When considering a breast lift, it is important to carefully evaluate your options, choose a reputable surgeon, and have realistic expectations. By following the pre-operative and post-operative instructions