Introduction
In New York City, the pursuit of beauty is a constant. When it comes to skin tightening and lifting of accessory breasts, there are numerous procedures and surgeons to consider. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relevant information, including breast lift surgeries, skin - tightening treatments, and top surgeons in the area. Understanding these aspects can help individuals make informed decisions about enhancing their appearance and boosting their confidence.
What is Breast Lift?
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy in plastic surgery, is a procedure designed to address sagging breasts. Over time, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, weight gain and loss, and aging can cause breasts to lose their shape and firmness, resulting in a drooping appearance. A breast lift aims to reposition the nipple, elevate the breast tissue, and remove excess skin to create a more youthful and perky look.
Determining the Need for a Breast Lift
The severity of breast drop is judged by the relative position of the nipple to the inferior breast fold (inframammary fold). If a woman stands with her arms at her sides, and her nipples are lower than the halfway point between her shoulder and elbow, a breast lift can be considered. Additionally, women with areolas and nipples that point downward, breasts that are tube - like or elongated, uneven breasts, or those who have completed breastfeeding and child - bearing may be good candidates for a breast lift.
Types of Breast Lifts
Circumareolar Mastopexy
Also called a “doughnut” or “periareolar” breast lift, the incision is made around the areola only. This procedure can address mild sagging and reduce the size of the areola. It is a relatively less invasive option and results in less scarring compared to some other techniques. However, it may not be suitable for cases of more severe breast sagging.
Circumvertical Mastopexy
Often referred to as a “lollipop” breast lift or short scar breast lift. An incision is made around the areola with a vertical line heading downwards. This allows the surgeon to remove more skin and tissue than circumareolar mastopexy but has less scarring than a full breast lift. It is suitable for moderate breast sagging.
Wise - Pattern Mastopexy
Also known as the “inverted - t” breast lift. The incision is made around the areola, a vertical line down the bottom of the breast, and a horizontal line. This technique allows for additional skin removal and tightening of the deeper layer of breast tissue, making it appropriate for severe breast sagging cases. However, it also results in more visible scarring.
Augmentation Mastopexy
This is a combination of a breast lift and breast augmentation using implants. It is used when a patient wants to increase the size, shape, and position of the breasts simultaneously. This procedure can address both sagging and lack of volume, providing a more comprehensive solution for those who desire a fuller and lifted bust.
| Type of Breast Lift | Incision Location | Suitability | Scarring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circumareolar Mastopexy | Around the areola only | Mild breast sagging | Least visible, limited to areola area |
| Circumvertical Mastopexy | Around the areola and a vertical line | Moderate breast sagging | Less than wise - pattern, lollipop - shaped |
| Wise - Pattern Mastopexy | Around the areola, vertical line, and horizontal line | Severe breast sagging | Most visible, inverted - t shape |
| Augmentation Mastopexy | Similar to mastopexy techniques + implant placement | Combined sagging and volume loss | Depends on mastopexy technique used |
Benefits of a Breast Lift
- Enhanced Appearance: Breasts look perkier, more symmetrical, and have a more youthful shape. This can improve a woman's self - confidence and body image.
- Better Clothing Fit: Clothes can fit more snugly and flatteringly, as the lifted breasts provide a more defined shape.
- Correction of Nipple and Areola Issues: The nipple and areola can be repositioned to a more natural and aesthetically pleasing height, and the size of the areola can be reduced if necessary.
- Long - Lasting Results: With proper care and maintenance, the results of a breast lift can last for many years, providing a long - term solution to breast sagging.
Top Surgeons for Breast Lifts in New York City
Dr. William Lao
Dr. 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. He is a founding member of the Asian Society for Breast Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a double major, followed by a doctorate in medicine. He offers the best breast lift in New York City, according to his patients. His breast lift expertise is highly regarded, and he uses advanced surgical techniques to provide personalized results.
Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Kolker is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Every breast lift procedure with him is uniquely personalized and tailored specifically to both the patient's anatomy and desire. He has extensive experience in choosing the appropriate breast lift technique based on factors such as the degree of deflation, breast and nipple position, and skin elasticity.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Trained at Stanford and Cornell, Dr. Antell is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a reputation for excellence in aesthetic surgery. He has been recognized as a “top plastic surgeon” by many renowned magazines. He achieves exceptional surgical outcomes in breast reshaping and lifting, with results that appear firm, youthful, and natural.
Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh
Dr. Alizadeh is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 23 years of experience. He developed the innovative naturabra® surgical technique, which minimizes scarring and maximizes the effect and lasting power of the results. He has trained hundreds of surgeons in 27 countries and has a deep commitment to patient care.
Dr. David Cangello
Dr. Cangello is one of the top board - certified plastic surgeons in New York City. He approaches plastic surgery with an artistic eye and is dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. He offers different breast lift techniques, including crescent mastopexy, benelli mastopexy, vertical mastopexy, and anchor mastopexy, and tailors the procedure to each patient's needs.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Weintraub is a highly experienced breast surgeon. He performs breast - lift surgery at his quad a - accredited surgical facility. He has a unique blend of medical science and artistry, and his attention to detail ensures the best possible results. He offers different breast - lift options to fulfill each patient’s individual goals and needs.
Preparing for a Breast Lift
Preparing for a breast lift is an essential step to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon's guidelines carefully.
Medical Consultation
Patients will have a comprehensive preoperative visit with their surgeon. During this visit, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, ask about any previous surgeries or treatments, and examine the breasts. They will also discuss the patient's goals and expectations, and recommend the most suitable breast lift technique.
Medication and Lifestyle Adjustments
Patients may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen, before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. They may also need to adjust their lifestyle, such as quitting smoking if they are smokers, as smoking can interfere with the healing process.
Pre - operative Testing
Routine laboratory studies, blood work, and any appropriate breast imaging studies may be ordered. These tests help the surgeon assess the patient's overall health and identify any potential issues that may affect the surgery or recovery.
Arrangements for Recovery
Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them during the first few days of recovery. They may also need to prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with necessary supplies, such as extra pillows for support and easy - to - wear clothing.
What to Expect During the Breast Lift Procedure
The breast lift procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or “twilight” sedation. The specific steps of the procedure depend on the chosen breast lift technique.
Incision and Tissue Manipulation
The surgeon will make incisions according to the selected technique. They will then reshape the underlying breast tissue, remove excess skin, and reposition the nipple and areola to a higher position. In some cases, the areola may also be reduced in size.
Closing the Incisions
Meticulous layers of internal, dissolving sutures and external sutures are used to close the incisions. The surgeon will ensure that the incisions are as inconspicuous as possible, taking into account the patient's anatomy and the final desired appearance.
Duration of the Procedure
The surgery usually takes around 2 - 3 hours to complete, although the exact time may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the technique used.
Recovery After a Breast Lift
Immediate Post - operative Care
After the surgery, patients will be taken to a recovery room where they will be monitored closely. Bandages will be placed over the breasts, and they will likely be given a surgical support bra to wear. They may experience bruising and swelling, which is normal and will gradually subside.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients can return home on the day of surgery or within a few hours. They should rest frequently for the first few days and avoid strenuous activities. Many patients can return to work within 3 - 7 days, depending on the nature of their job. Exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
Scarring and Healing
There will be some scarring after a breast lift, but the surgeon will try to minimize its visibility. The scars will initially appear as raised, red lines and will gradually fade over time. Patients may be given instructions on how to care for the scars to help them heal better, such as using scar - reducing creams or avoiding sun exposure.
Follow - up Appointments
Patients will need to have follow - up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery. The surgeon will check the incisions, assess the healing progress, and provide further instructions on post - operative care.
Non - Surgical Skin Tightening Options for Accessory Breasts
Facetite/Accutite
Using a small probe inserted under the skin and a head that passes over it, this innovative technology delivers radiofrequency energy to contract connective tissue, stimulate collagen production, and coagulate fat. It requires only local anesthesia and tiny incisions, so there’s little to no downtime.
Forma RF
Like Facetite, Forma uses radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin and increase collagen production. This treatment is non - invasive, so there are no incisions or downtime, making it a convenient option for those who want to avoid surgery.
Microneedling and Morpheus8
Many patients can improve mild skin laxity with microneedling, especially RF microneedling treatments like Morpheus 8. These minimally invasive procedures use tiny needles to trigger a healing response that increases collagen production, which can help tighten the skin of accessory breasts.
Cost of Breast Lift and Skin Tightening Procedures
The cost of a breast lift and skin - tightening procedures in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors.
Breast Lift Costs
The average cost of breast lift surgery in New York City typically starts at $8,000 and can range up to $20,000 or more. Factors that influence the cost include the complexity of the procedure, the type of breast lift technique used, anesthesia costs, and the surgeon's fee. Some surgeons may also charge additional fees for post - operative care and follow - up appointments.
Skin Tightening Costs
The cost of non - surgical skin - tightening treatments such as Facetite, Forma RF, or microneedling also varies. These treatments are generally less expensive than surgical breast lift procedures but can still cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars per session, depending on the area being treated and the number of sessions required.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast lift and skin - tightening procedures are generally safe, there are potential risks and complications associated with them.
Breast Lift Risks
- Scarring: Although surgeons try to minimize scarring, it is inevitable with any surgical procedure. The visibility and appearance of scars can vary from person to person.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site. Patients will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce this risk, but it is still important to keep the incisions clean and follow the surgeon's instructions.
- Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
- Breast Asymmetry: There is a possibility of the breasts not being perfectly symmetrical after the surgery. This may require additional procedures to correct.
- Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a rare but serious complication that can occur after surgery. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding activity levels and blood - thinning medications to reduce this risk.
Non - Surgical Skin Tightening Risks
- Swelling and Bruising: These are common side effects of non - surgical skin - tightening treatments and usually subside within a few days to a week.
- Skin Sensitivity: The treated area may be sensitive to touch or sunlight for a short period after the treatment.
- Uneven Results: In some cases, the skin - tightening results may not be uniform, requiring additional treatments to achieve the desired outcome.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are a variety of options available for skin tightening and lifting of accessory breasts. Breast lift surgeries, whether surgical or non - surgical, offer effective solutions for addressing sagging and achieving a more youthful appearance. Top surgeons in the city, with their expertise and experience, can provide personalized treatments based on each patient's needs and goals. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of these procedures and to follow the surgeon's instructions before, during, and after the treatment. If you are considering a breast lift or skin - tightening procedure, take the time to research your options, consult with a qualified surgeon, and make an informed decision.
Are you ready to take the next step towards enhancing your appearance? Contact a reputable plastic surgeon in New York City today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the available procedures.
