Introduction

Breast ptosis, or sagging breasts, is a common concern for many women. Various factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight changes can lead to this condition. In New York City, there are numerous hospitals and plastic surgeons offering breast ptosis surgery, also known as breast lift or mastopexy. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information about breast ptosis surgery in New York City, including the procedure, benefits, candidates, different surgical techniques, recovery, risks, and a review of some well - known plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons.

What is Breast Ptosis?

Breast ptosis occurs when the breasts sag below the inframammary fold. As per the references, several factors contribute to this condition:

• Aging: With age, the body's production of collagen and elastin decreases. This reduction leads to a loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin tissues of the breasts, causing them to droop. For example, as a woman enters her 40s and 50s, she may notice a gradual sagging of her breasts due to these natural age - related changes.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: During pregnancy, the breasts increase in size and become heavier as they prepare for breastfeeding. This causes stretching of the skin. After breastfeeding, the breasts may lose volume, but the stretched skin often remains, resulting in sagging and excess skin. Many women who have given birth experience this change in the appearance of their breasts.
• Weight Changes: Significant weight gain causes the skin to stretch. When a person then experiences significant weight loss, the skin may not be able to shrink back down completely, leaving behind excess, sagging skin on the breasts. For instance, someone who loses a large amount of weight through diet and exercise may notice that their breasts have become saggy.
• Gravity: Over time, the constant downward pull of gravity on the breast tissues contributes to sagging. This effect is more pronounced as a person ages and the skin and supporting tissues of the breasts weaken.

Benefits of Breast Ptosis Surgery

Breast ptosis surgery offers numerous benefits for women who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their sagging breasts:

• Improved Appearance: The surgery can lift and reshape the breasts, giving them a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing contour. It repositions the nipple and areola to a more natural position and addresses excess skin and tissue, resulting in firmer and perkier breasts. For example, a woman who has experienced breast sagging after pregnancy may see a significant improvement in the shape and position of her breasts after the surgery.
• Enhanced Self - Confidence: A more attractive breast appearance can have a positive impact on a woman's self - esteem and body image. Many patients report feeling more confident in their clothing and more comfortable in intimate situations after breast lift surgery. For instance, they may feel more comfortable wearing swimsuits or low - cut tops.
• Better Clothing Fit: Sagging breasts can make it difficult to find clothing that fits well. After a breast lift, clothes tend to fit better, as the breasts are more proportionate to the body. For example, a woman may find that her bras no longer dig into her shoulders or that her tops fit more smoothly over her chest.

Candidates for Breast Ptosis Surgery

Not all women are suitable candidates for breast ptosis surgery. Ideal candidates typically have the following characteristics:

• Sagging Breasts: They have sagging or drooping breasts due to factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or genetic predisposition. The degree of sagging can range from mild to severe, and different surgical techniques may be used depending on the severity.
• Good Health: Candidates should be in overall good health and not have any medical conditions that could impair healing or increase the risks associated with surgery. This includes being free from chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or immune - system disorders that could affect the body's ability to recover from surgery.
• Realistic Expectations: They should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. A breast lift primarily addresses breast sagging and may not significantly increase breast size. If a patient desires an increase in breast size, they may consider combining a breast lift with breast augmentation surgery.
• Stable Weight: Having a stable weight is important, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the long - term results of a breast lift. A patient who is planning to lose or gain a large amount of weight in the near future may want to postpone the surgery until their weight is more stable.
• Non - Smoking: Smokers are at a higher risk of complications during and after surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes acts as a vasoconstrictor, narrowing the blood vessels and impeding proper circulation to the nipple and surrounding tissues. Surgeons generally recommend that smokers quit smoking for at least one month before surgery and avoid nicotine patches and gum as they do not significantly reduce the risk of complications.

Types of Breast Ptosis Surgery Techniques

There are several surgical techniques available for breast ptosis surgery, and the choice of technique depends on the degree of breast sagging and the patient's specific needs:

Periareolar Mastopexy (Donut Lift)

This technique is suitable for women with mild breast sagging. An incision is made in a circle around the perimeter of the areola. The excess skin is removed, and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position. The resulting scar is usually well - hidden around the areola. For example, a woman with only a slight drooping of the breasts may be a good candidate for this procedure. It is also known as a "donut" lift because of the circular shape of the incision.

Vertical Mastopexy (Lollipop Lift)

For moderate breast sagging, the vertical mastopexy is often used. An incision is made around the outer edge of the areola and continues vertically down the underside of the breast, resembling the shape of a lollipop. This technique allows for more lifting and reshaping of the breast tissue compared to the periareolar mastopexy. Surgeons can remove more excess skin and better reshape the breast to achieve a more youthful appearance. Women with moderately sagging breasts, where the areola is at or below the level of the inframammary fold, may benefit from this procedure.

Anchor Mastopexy (Inverted - T Lift)

This is the most comprehensive technique and is used for severe breast sagging. The incision pattern resembles an anchor. It involves an incision around the areola, a vertical incision down the breast, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold. The surgeon can remove a significant amount of excess skin and tissue, reposition the nipple and areola, and reshape the breast to a more elevated and youthful position. However, this technique also leaves the most visible scar, but the scar usually fades over time. Women with severe breast ptosis, where the nipple is at the lowest point of the sagging breast and often facing completely downward, are typically candidates for this procedure.

The Breast Ptosis Surgery Procedure

Pre - surgery Preparation

Before the surgery, patients will have an initial consultation with the plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly review the patient's medical history, including any current or past medical conditions, previous surgeries, and the use of medications, nicotine, alcohol, or supplements. If the patient has a history of breast cancer, it is crucial to inform the surgeon. The surgeon will also conduct a physical examination of the breasts, measuring the base width of the breasts, the amount of existing breast tissue, and the degree of breast ptosis. Pre - operative photographs will be taken, which are an important part of the surgical planning and the patient's medical record. The surgeon will explain the procedure, the expected outcome, the risks, and answer any questions the patient may have. Based on the patient's condition and goals, the surgeon will recommend the most suitable surgical technique.

Patients will be given a comprehensive pre - operative list. They may be advised to refrain from aspirin products, stop certain medications, avoid particular vitamins, and in some cases, add arnica herbal supplements to their regimen. Smokers are required to stop smoking for a specified period before surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Patients also need to arrange for a ride home from the hospital and someone to care for them during the initial 24 - hour recovery period.

The Surgery

Breast ptosis surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during the procedure. The surgery typically lasts from two to three and a half hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen surgical technique. Once the patient is under anesthesia, the surgeon makes the incisions according to the planned technique. Excess skin and tissue are removed, and the breast tissue is reshaped and lifted. The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more natural position. If necessary, the size of the areola may be reduced. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovery after Breast Ptosis Surgery

After the surgery, patients will be monitored in the recovery room. Once they are awake and stable, they are usually allowed to go home the same day if it is an outpatient procedure. However, patients who reside outside of New York City may be advised to stay overnight in Manhattan for easier post - operative care.

On the first night after surgery, patients may experience mild pain, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Swelling and bruising around the breasts are common and will gradually subside over the first few weeks. Patients will be provided with a surgical bra or compression garment that they should wear as instructed to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. Sutures are typically removed within seven days following the surgery.

Most patients can resume normal, non - strenuous routines after about one week. However, strenuous physical activities, such as heavy lifting and intense exercise, should be avoided for several weeks to ensure proper healing. It takes about six weeks for the breasts to heal significantly, but the final shape of the breasts may take up to 12 weeks to become fully visible. Patients will have follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their recovery and address any concerns.

Risks and Complications of Breast Ptosis Surgery

While breast ptosis surgery is generally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and complications associated with the procedure:

• Scarring: All breast lift surgeries leave scars. The visibility and appearance of the scars depend on the surgical technique used, the patient's skin type, and how well the scars heal. Over time, the scars usually fade, but they will never completely disappear. In some cases, the scars may become thick or wide.
• Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience diminished nipple or breast sensation. In most cases, this is temporary, but in some rare cases, the loss of feeling may be permanent. The nerves to the nipple are not typically cut during surgery, but the manipulation of the breast tissue can sometimes affect the nerve endings.
• Circulation Problems: There is a slight risk of nipple circulation problems during the healing process. This can occur if the blood supply to the nipple is disrupted during the surgery. In severe cases, it may lead to partial or total loss of the areolae or nipples.
• Infection: Infection following breast lift surgery is rare but can occur. It may require treatment with intravenous antibiotics or additional surgery. Surgeons usually prescribe antibiotics before surgery to help prevent infections.
• Hematoma and Seroma: A hematoma is a collection of blood underneath the skin, and a seroma is a collection of clear fluid. These can occur following surgery and may require drainage. If a hematoma occurs, the patient may notice a sudden increase in the size of one or both breasts, and they will need to return to the operating room to stop the bleeding vessel and evacuate the blood.
• Asymmetry: Some patients may have asymmetry of the breasts or breast contour and shape irregularities after surgery. This may require revision surgery to correct.
• Anesthesia Risks: Although general anesthesia is very safe, there are still some risks associated with it. Patients are screened for any personal or family history of anesthesia reactions before the surgery.

Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Breast Ptosis Surgery

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. His dedicated staff ensures that patients receive a first - class experience from start to finish. Dr. Sherman offers different types of breast lift surgeries, including full mastopexy and periareolar mastopexy. The breast lift procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and patients have the option of having the surgery in his fully accredited operating suite or at a hospital such as New York Presbyterian Hospital or Weill Cornell Medical Center. To learn more about the procedure and schedule a consultation, patients can call (212) 535 - 2300 or complete a digital form.

Dr. Stafford Broumand at 740 Park Plastic Surgery

Dr. Stafford Broumand is a board - certified plastic surgeon who performs breast lift surgery using advanced surgical techniques. During the initial consultation, which lasts about 60 minutes, he listens to the patient's concerns and goals. He conducts a physical exam and discusses the patient's medical history. Using Vectra® XT technology, an advanced imaging system, he can show the patient the expected surgical outcome, helping them establish realistic expectations. Dr. Broumand offers different breast lift techniques, including benelli mastopexy, vertical mastopexy, and anchor mastopexy. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes about two hours. After the surgery, patients are closely monitored, and follow - up visits are scheduled at specific intervals. To schedule a consultation, patients can contact the office for more information.

Dr. Nina S. Naidu

Dr. Nina S. Naidu is a female plastic surgeon in New York City. She and her staff are dedicated to providing high - quality care to women. During the consultation, she gets to know the patient's goals, reviews their medical history, and conducts a physical examination of the breasts. She explains the different breast lift techniques, including circumareolar, vertical, and inverted - t incisions, and helps the patient choose the most suitable one based on their condition. The breast lift surgery is performed in a NYC ambulatory surgery center under general anesthesia and takes approximately 90 minutes. Dr. Naidu also discusses the risks and complications of the surgery and provides detailed after - care instructions. To schedule a consultation, patients can call her office at 212 - 452 - 1230.

Dr. Alizadeh at Cosmoplastic Surgery

Dr. Alizadeh is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 23 years of experience in performing breast lift surgery in New York City. He developed the naturabra® surgical technique, which minimizes scarring and maximizes the effect and lasting power of the results. This technique creates an internal support using the patient's own tissue to create an internal bra for the breasts. Dr. Alizadeh offers different anesthesia options, including local, general, or IV sedation. The recovery period for the naturabra® breast lift is about four to six weeks. He also offers the option of combining a breast lift with augmentation using fat transfer or implants. To learn more about the procedure and schedule a consultation, patients can call his office for details.

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. He specializes in minimally invasive aesthetics. During the consultation, he reviews the patient's medical history, discusses their goals, and conducts a physical examination. He explains the different breast lift techniques, such as the lollipop lift, anchor breast lift, donut lift, and crescent lift, and helps the patient choose the appropriate one. The breast lift surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia and lasts from 1.5 to 3.5 hours. Dr. Steinbrech also addresses the potential risks and side effects of the surgery and provides after - care instructions. To schedule an appointment, patients can call his office in Manhattan.

Cost of Breast Ptosis Surgery in New York City

The cost of breast ptosis surgery in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the surgeon's experience, the type of surgical technique used, the complexity of the procedure, the location of the surgery (hospital or surgical center), and whether the patient chooses to combine the breast lift with other procedures such as breast augmentation. On average, the cost of a breast lift can range from $8,000 to $15,000, excluding additional costs such as anesthesia fees and surgery center fees. Some surgeons may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the surgery. It is important for patients to consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon to get a personalized quote based on their specific needs and goals.