Introduction

Breast ptosis, or sagging breasts, is a common concern among many women in New York City. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and genetics. For those looking to address this issue, there are numerous professional plastic hospitals and surgeons in New York City that offer breast lift procedures, also known as mastopexy. This guide will provide comprehensive information on breast ptosis plastic surgery, including the causes of breast sagging, the benefits of a breast lift, the types of breast lift techniques available, what to expect during the surgical process, recovery, and the top plastic surgeons and hospitals in New York City.

Causes of Breast Ptosis

Several factors can contribute to the development of breast ptosis. Understanding these causes is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

• Aging: As women age, the skin loses its elasticity due to a decrease in collagen and elastin production. This leads to a loss of firmness and elasticity in the breast tissues, resulting in drooping breasts.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: During pregnancy, the breasts undergo significant changes. They become heavier and fuller as the body prepares for breastfeeding. The stretching of the skin and ligaments during this time can cause the breasts to sag. After breastfeeding, the breasts may lose volume, but the stretched skin remains, leading to sagging and excess skin.
• Weight Changes: Significant weight gain can cause the skin to stretch. When a person experiences significant weight loss, the skin may not be able to shrink back to its original shape, resulting in sagging skin on the breasts.
• Gravity: Over time, the constant downward pull of gravity can cause the breast tissues to sag.

Benefits of a Breast Lift

A breast lift offers numerous benefits for women who are unhappy with the appearance of their sagging breasts.

• Enhanced Appearance: The primary benefit of a breast lift is the improvement in the appearance of the breasts. The procedure can elevate the breasts, correct drooping, tighten excess skin, reshape the breast tissue, and raise the nipple - areolar complex to a more natural position. This results in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance of the breasts.
• Increased Confidence: Many women who undergo a breast lift report an increase in self - confidence. Having firmer and more shapely breasts can make them feel better about their bodies and more comfortable in their clothing.
• Improved Proportion: A breast lift can help bring the breasts into better proportion with the rest of the body. This can enhance the overall silhouette and create a more balanced appearance.
• Customizable: Breast lift surgery can be customized to address the specific needs and goals of each patient. Depending on the degree of ptosis and the patient's desired outcome, different techniques can be used.

Types of Breast Lift Techniques

There are several techniques used to perform breast lift surgery, and the choice of technique depends on the severity of breast ptosis, the patient's breast size and shape, and their desired outcome.

Benelli Mastopexy

The Benelli mastopexy, also known as the periareolar mastopexy or “donut” lift, involves making an incision in a circle around the perimeter of the areola. This technique is typically suitable for women with mild breast sagging. It can be used to raise the nipple - areolar complex and tighten the skin around the areola. The main advantage of this technique is that it leaves minimal scarring, as the scar is hidden around the edge of the areola. However, it may not be sufficient for more severe cases of ptosis.

Vertical or Lollipop Mastopexy

The vertical or lollipop mastopexy involves making an incision around the outer edge of the areola and continuing vertically down the underside of the breast, forming the shape of a lollipop. This technique is suitable for women with moderate breast sagging. It allows the surgeon to remove excess skin, reshape the breast tissue, and elevate the breasts. The vertical incision provides more access for these changes compared to the Benelli mastopexy. While the scar is more visible than in the Benelli lift, it is often considered acceptable as it fades over time. Many surgeons prefer this technique as it provides good lifting and reshaping results.

Anchor or Inverted “T” Mastopexy

The anchor or inverted “T” mastopexy is the most comprehensive breast lift technique. It involves making an incision that encircles the areola, continues down the breasts, and then continues along the inframammary fold, resembling the shape of an anchor. This technique is used for women with severe breast sagging or a large amount of excess skin. It allows for significant removal of excess skin and tissue, extensive reshaping of the breast, and a high degree of lifting. However, it leaves the most visible scar, which is located around the areola, down the breast, and along the breast crease. Despite the scar, it can provide excellent long - term results for patients with more advanced ptosis.

Breast Lift Procedure

Consultation

The first step in the breast lift process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will listen to the patient's concerns and goals for the surgery. They will conduct a physical examination, including measuring the base width of the breasts, the amount of existing breast tissue, and the degree of breast ptosis. The surgeon will also review the patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, current medications, and use of nicotine, alcohol, or supplements. If the patient plans to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future, this will be discussed as it may impact the decision to have a breast lift. Additionally, the surgeon will explain the different breast lift techniques, the expected surgical outcome, and the potential risks and complications. Advanced imaging systems like Vectra® XT technology may be used to create a 3D image of the patient's body and show how the breasts could look after the surgery, helping the patient establish realistic expectations.

Pre - operative Preparation

Once the patient and the surgeon have agreed on a treatment plan, the patient will receive a comprehensive pre - operative list. This may include instructions such as refraining from aspirin products, stopping certain medications, avoiding particular vitamins, and adding arnica herbal supplements to the regimen. If the patient is a smoker, they will typically be advised to quit smoking for a certain period before and after surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications. The patient may also need to arrange for a ride home from the hospital and have someone available to assist them during the initial recovery period.

Surgery

Breast lift surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure can vary, but it typically takes about two hours. However, if the patient is also having breast implants placed in conjunction with the lift, the surgery may take longer. The surgeon will use the pre - determined incision pattern based on the patient's breast condition and the chosen technique. Excess skin is removed, and the breast tissues are reshaped and elevated to a higher position on the chest wall. The nipple - areolar complex is repositioned, and in some cases, the size of the areola may be reduced. Once the desired contour and position are achieved, the residual skin is pulled taut and carefully reattached beneath the curve of the breasts.

Recovery

After the surgery, the patient will wake up in a recovery room. They may experience some swelling, bruising, and numbness in the nipples and breasts, which should subside over the first few post - operative weeks. Pain can generally be managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon. The patient will be required to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support the breasts during the healing process. Sutures are typically removed within seven days following the surgery. Most patients are able to return to normal, non - strenuous routines after approximately one week, but they should avoid rigorous exercise or strenuous physical activities for several weeks to ensure proper healing. Follow - up visits will be scheduled at regular intervals, such as one week, two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, six weeks, three months, six months, and one year after the procedure to monitor the healing progress and address any concerns.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast lift surgery carries some risks and potential complications. It is important for patients to be aware of these before deciding to undergo the surgery.

• Hematoma: A collection of blood underneath the skin can occur following surgery. This may cause a sudden increase in the size of one or both breasts and may require a return to the operating room to stop the bleeding and evacuate the blood.
• Seroma: A seroma is a collection of clear fluid underneath the skin. Some patients may notice a small amount of clear drainage from the breast incisions for several weeks following surgery.
• Infection: Infection following breast lift surgery is rare but can occur. It may necessitate intravenous antibiotics or additional surgery. Antibiotics are typically given prior to surgery to help prevent infection.
• Scarring: All breast lift surgeries leave scars. The visibility and appearance of the scars can vary from patient to patient. While the scars usually improve with time, they will not completely fade. In some cases, the scars may become thick or wide.
• Necrosis: Necrosis, or the death of skin and fat, may occur, especially in smokers, following an infection, or with the use of steroids. This complication may require additional surgery.
• Pain: Most patients report only mild discomfort following surgery, but a small number of patients may experience permanent pain.
• Blood Clots: Blood clots may form in the legs or travel to the lungs following surgery. This is a potentially fatal complication, and preventive measures such as the use of leg compression devices during surgery are usually taken.
• Numbness: Most patients will experience some numbness over the breasts and nipples, which usually resolves within several weeks. However, a small number of patients may have persistent changes in sensation.
• Asymmetry: Some patients may have asymmetry of the breasts or breast contour and shape irregularities after the surgery.
• Potential Inability to Breast - feed: There is a risk that some patients may be unable to breastfeed following breast lift surgery.
• Future Pregnancy: If a patient becomes pregnant after a breast lift, the breasts may enlarge and sag again. A second breast lift may be necessary if this occurs.
• Anesthesia Risks: Although general anesthesia is very safe, all patients are screened for any personal or family history of anesthesia reactions.

Top Plastic Surgeons and Hospitals in New York City

740 Park Plastic Surgery

At 740 Park Plastic Surgery, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stafford Broumand performs breast lift surgeries. He uses advanced surgical techniques to remove excess skin, reshape, and elevate the breasts for a more youthful contour and projection. The initial consultation is approximately 60 minutes to an hour, during which the surgeon listens to the patient's concerns and conducts a physical examination. Vectra® XT technology is used to help the patient visualize the expected surgical outcome. The practice also provides detailed pre - operative instructions and follow - up care.

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 has helped numerous women achieve stunning results. During the consultation, Dr. Sherman thoroughly reviews the patient's medical history and discusses all aspects of the procedure. He offers different breast lift techniques, including full mastopexy and periareolar mastopexy. The surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis at his fully accredited operating suite or at a reputable hospital such as New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, or Lenox Hill Hospital.

Dr. Adam Kolker

Dr. Adam Kolker is known for his proficiency in breast asymmetry correction and breast lift procedures. He takes an individualized approach, starting with an in - depth consultation to understand the patient's unique goals. He formulates a personalized treatment plan that may involve a combination of breast surgery approaches, including breast enlargement, reduction, lift, and reshaping techniques. His goal is to achieve more balanced, proportional, natural, and beautiful results.

Breast Reduction Center of NYC

The Breast Reduction Center of NYC offers breast reduction and breast lift plastic surgery. Their best - in - class board - certified plastic surgeons use the most advanced, cutting - edge surgical techniques. They have a specialized procedure that involves general anesthesia and a nerve block, eliminating the need for post - operative narcotics or drains. The center also offers virtual consultations and accepts most insurance. The plastic surgeons at the center select the appropriate incision technique based on the patient's breast size and the degree of ptosis, and they take exceptional care of each patient from the initial consultation to the post - recovery period.

Dr. Nina Naidu

Dr. Nina Naidu is a female plastic surgeon in New York City. She and her staff are dedicated to providing high - quality care for breast lift surgeries. During the consultation, Dr. Naidu takes the time to get to know the patient and their goals. She conducts a thorough physical examination and provides detailed information about the surgery, including the different techniques, potential risks, and recovery process. She prefers using general anesthesia and offers a range of breast lift techniques, with the vertical incision being selected in the majority of cases. Dr. Naidu also educates the patient about post - operative care and provides written instructions.

NYU Langone Health

Plastic surgeons at NYU Langone offer breast lift surgery as part of their comprehensive breast plastic surgery services. They are experts in the latest techniques and use three - dimensional imaging to assist in preoperative planning, long - term evaluation, and follow - up care. The team of plastic surgeons includes Dr. Eduardo D. Rodriguez and Dr. Nolan S. Karp, among others. They also offer other breast - related procedures such as breast reduction, secondary breast reconstruction, and augmentation surgery.

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a board - certified plastic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive aesthetics. He offers breast lift procedures to restore the youthful shape of the breasts lost to gravity or weight changes. During the consultation, he reviews the patient's medical history, discusses their goals, and conducts a physical examination. He explains the various breast lift techniques, including traditional breast lift surgery and lift with augmentation options. Computer imagery is used to help the patient visualize potential results. Dr. Steinbrech is recognized as one of America's top plastic surgeons and has a brilliant team of caring staff members.

Cost of Breast Lift in New York City

The cost of a breast lift in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These include the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the type of breast lift technique used, the location of the surgery (whether it is in a surgeon's office - based facility, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital), and the additional costs such as anesthesia fees and facility fees. On average, the cost of a breast lift in New York ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. However, it is important to consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon for a personalized quote. Insurance typically does not cover the cost of a cosmetic breast lift, but in some cases where there is a medical necessity, such as significant back pain or skin irritation due to large and sagging breasts, insurance may provide coverage.

Conclusion

Breast ptosis is a common concern that can have a significant impact on a woman's self - confidence and body image. Fortunately, there are effective solutions available in the form of breast lift surgeries offered by professional plastic surgeons and hospitals in New York City. By understanding the causes of breast sagging, the benefits of a breast lift, the different surgical techniques, the potential risks, and the recovery process, women can make informed decisions about whether a breast lift is right for them. It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience and a good reputation to ensure the best possible outcome. If you are considering a breast lift, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon in New York City to discuss your goals and explore your options.