Introduction
Breast skin tightening surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting breast ptosis. This condition occurs when the breasts sag below the inframammary fold, often resulting from factors such as aging, childbirth, pregnancy, or the presence of large breast implants. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals that offer high - quality breast skin tightening surgeries. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals for this procedure, providing you with in - depth information about their services, surgeons, and patient experiences.
1. Millennial Plastic Surgery
Surgeon and Expertise
Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery in midtown Manhattan is a premier cosmetic surgeon. He is well - known for his skills in performing breast lift surgeries. With years of experience, Dr. Shokrian has helped numerous patients achieve their desired breast appearance, whether it's restoring a more youthful look after pregnancy or addressing sagging due to aging. He respects patients' decision - making abilities and focuses on understanding their specific goals to provide personalized treatment.
Services Offered
- Traditional Surgical Breast Lift: This includes three different techniques. The traditional or anchor breast lift is optimal for those with moderate to severe sagging, offering the maximum lift. The vertical or lollipop breast lift is suitable for mild to moderate sagging, and the circumareolar, periareolar or donut lift is ideal for minimal sagging, with a single incision around the areola for a less - visible scar.
- Vampire Breast Lift: This uses platelet - rich plasma (PRP) to improve the look of the breasts. It promotes collagen growth, stimulates new growth cells, and can make the breasts look fuller, improve texture, and reduce scars, stretch marks, and wrinkles. The PRP is derived from the patient's own blood, making it a natural - looking and relatively non - invasive option for those not ready for a full surgical lift.
Patient Experience
Patients have had positive experiences at Millennial Plastic Surgery. The patient coordinator, Neke, is known for her professionalism and genuine care for patients' well - being. Dr. Shokrian's artistry and attention to detail are evident in the natural - looking and symmetric results he achieves. Many patients have reported high satisfaction with the new shape and appearance of their breasts, as well as the improved self - confidence that comes with it.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the breast lift surgery, patients are dressed in a gauze dressing and a surgical support bra. Small tubes are placed at the incision sites for normal drainage, which are typically removed after a few days. Some stitches may dissolve independently, while others are removed during a follow - up visit one to two weeks after the procedure. Most side effects diminish in the first few weeks. Patients are advised to take a week of downtime, avoid strenuous activities for about four weeks, and protect their incisions from the sun to ensure proper healing.
2. Weill Cornell Medicine
Surgeon and Expertise
The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are leaders in the field. They are highly skilled and able to provide individualized breast surgery for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities. These surgeons work closely with patients from the initial consultation to understand their goals and discuss the best options, ensuring a natural look and enhanced self - image for the patients.
Services Offered
- Comprehensive Cosmetic Breast Surgery: Weill Cornell Medicine offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast reduction surgery, breast augmentation with implants, and DIEP flap surgery. This comprehensive approach allows patients to choose the most suitable procedure based on their specific needs and desired outcomes.
Patient Experience
The team at Weill Cornell Medicine prioritizes patient comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have ample time to ask questions and understand the procedure. The surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the recovery process. The partnership with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S., also adds to the credibility and quality of care.
Benefits of Choosing Weill Cornell Medicine
- Individualized Care: The surgeons tailor the treatment to each patient's unique body, taking into account factors such as breast shape, size, and skin condition to achieve the best results.
- Research - Driven Approach: As an academic medical center, Weill Cornell Medicine is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. This means that patients may benefit from the latest advancements and techniques in breast skin tightening surgery.
3. Columbia Surgery
Surgeon and Expertise
Columbia Surgery has a team of board - certified plastic surgeons, each proficient in multiple areas of specialization. The surgeons in the breast reconstruction and cosmetic surgery division have the skills and experience to perform high - quality breast lift surgeries. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde, the chief of the division of plastic surgery, is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, with expertise in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction.
Services Offered
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): The breast lift services at Columbia Surgery aim to provide patients with firmer, more rounded, and shapelier breasts. The surgeons can also address issues such as balanced breast height, proportioned areola size, and enhance the results of other breast enhancement surgeries.
- Combined Procedures: Patients can also opt for combined procedures, such as combining a breast lift with breast augmentation for a fuller appearance or as part of a mommy makeover that may include a tummy tuck and liposuction.
Patient Experience
Patients can expect high - quality care at Columbia Surgery. The hospital is one of New York’s best and a world - class medical center, with resources dedicated to delivering top - notch cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. The surgeons take the time to understand patients' goals and provide detailed consultations to ensure that patients are well - informed about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
Research and Education
Columbia Surgery's plastic surgery research laboratory is actively involved in numerous research studies, including those related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research not only contributes to the advancement of the field but also has the potential to benefit patients through the application of new techniques and treatments.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Skin Tightening Surgery
Surgeon's Expertise
The skill and experience of the surgeon are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in breast lift surgeries, and have a portfolio of successful cases. They should be able to understand your specific needs and goals and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach.
Hospital Reputation
A hospital's reputation is an important factor. Consider hospitals with a history of providing high - quality care, positive patient reviews, and a good safety record. Hospitals that are affiliated with well - known medical institutions or have received recognition in the field are often a good choice.
Range of Services
It's beneficial to choose a hospital that offers a wide range of services related to breast surgery. This allows you to have more options in case you decide to combine procedures or if your needs change over time. For example, having the option of breast augmentation along with a breast lift can give you more comprehensive results.
Patient - Centered Care
Choose a hospital where the staff prioritizes patient comfort and well - being. This includes providing detailed pre - operative consultations, managing pain effectively during recovery, and offering support throughout the entire process. A hospital that takes the time to address your concerns and answer your questions will make your experience more positive.
Cost and Financing
Breast skin tightening surgery can be expensive, and most insurance companies do not cover cosmetic procedures. It's important to understand the cost of the surgery, including any additional fees such as anesthesia and surgical facility costs. Some hospitals may offer financing options or payment plans to help you manage the cost.
Breast Skin Tightening Surgery: An Overview
Causes of Breast Sagging
- Aging: As you age, the production of collagen and elastin in the body decreases. Collagen provides structure to the skin, and elastin gives it elasticity. With reduced production, the skin on the breasts loses firmness and elasticity, leading to sagging.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: During pregnancy, the breasts increase in size and become heavier. This stretching of the skin and supporting ligaments can lead to sagging. After breastfeeding, the breasts may lose volume, and the stretched skin may not fully retract, resulting in sagging and excess skin.
- Weight Changes: Significant weight gain can cause the skin to stretch. When a person loses a large amount of weight, the skin may not be able to shrink back to its original shape, leaving behind sagging skin on the breasts.
- Gravity: Over time, the constant downward pull of gravity on the breasts can contribute to sagging, especially in women with larger breasts.
Types of Breast Lift Surgeries
| Type of Surgery | Description | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Circumareolar Mastopexy (Donut Lift) | An incision is made around the areola. This surgery focuses on repositioning the nipple and areola and is used for mild breast sagging. It is often combined with breast augmentation. | Patients with mild breast sagging, those who want to correct nipple position, and those who may be considering breast augmentation. |
| Circumvertical Mastopexy (Lollipop Lift) | An incision is made around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease. This procedure is suitable for moderate breast sagging and provides a better lift compared to the donut lift. | Patients with moderate breast sagging who need more lifting and reshaping of the breast tissue. |
| Wise - Pattern Mastopexy (Inverted - T Lift) | An incision is made around the areola, a vertical line to the inframammary crease, and a horizontal line along the breast crease. This is the most invasive but also the most effective for severe breast sagging, allowing for significant lifting and reshaping. | Patients with severe breast sagging and deflation who require a large amount of skin removal and breast tissue reshaping. |
| Augmentation Mastopexy | This is a combination of breast lift and breast augmentation. It is used when a patient wants to both lift the breasts and increase their size. Implants are used to add volume while the lift procedure corrects sagging. | Patients who have lost breast volume due to factors such as pregnancy or weight loss and also want to address sagging, achieving a more youthful and fuller appearance. |
Recovery and Aftermath
Recovery from breast skin tightening surgery typically takes a few weeks. Immediately after the surgery, patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising. They are usually given pain medication to manage discomfort. A surgical bra or compression garment is worn to support the breasts and aid in healing. Sutures may be removed within a week or two, depending on the type of surgery. It's important to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks and follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care and follow - up appointments. The final results of the surgery may take several months to become fully visible as the swelling subsides and the breasts settle into their new shape.
Conclusion
When it comes to breast skin tightening surgery in New York City, Millennial Plastic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Columbia Surgery stand out as top choices. Each hospital offers high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and a patient - centered approach. Whether you are looking for a traditional surgical lift, a non - invasive option like the vampire breast lift, or a combined procedure, these hospitals can meet your needs. However, it's important to carefully consider factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, and cost before making a decision.
If you are considering breast skin tightening surgery, we encourage you to schedule consultations with surgeons at these hospitals. During the consultations, you can discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a better understanding of the procedure and what to expect. By taking the time to make an informed decision, you can achieve the beautiful, youthful breast appearance you desire.
