Introduction
Breast lift surgery, also known as mastopexy, is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. It is designed to address sagging breasts and create a more youthful and contoured appearance. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the ranking and prices of hospitals offering breast lift surgery in New York City, along with other relevant information such as the procedure, recovery, and alternatives.
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts. The surgery involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to improve breast firmness and contour. It can also reposition the nipples and areolas and provide added fullness to the upper part of the breasts. Some common reasons for breast sagging include aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss.
There are several techniques for performing a breast lift, each with its own set of incisions. The choice of technique depends on the patient's breast condition, the degree of sagging, and the desired outcome. Common types of breast lift incisions include:
- Circumareolar mastopexy: Also called a “doughnut” or “periareolar” breast lift, the incision is made around the areola only. It can address mild sagging and reduce the size of the areola.
- Circumvertical mastopexy: A short - scar breast lift with an incision made around the areola and a vertical line heading downwards, resembling a lollipop. It allows for more skin and tissue removal than circumareolar mastopexy and has less scarring than a full breast lift.
- Wise - pattern mastopexy: Also known as the “inverted - t”, the incision is made around the areola, a vertical line down the bottom of the breast, and a horizontal line. This technique allows for significant skin removal and tightening of the deeper layer of breast tissue and is suitable for more severe sagging.
Benefits of a Breast Lift
Undergoing a breast lift can bring several benefits to patients:
- Restores youthful shape: It helps to reverse the effects of aging, pregnancy, and weight loss, giving the breasts a more youthful and perky appearance.
- Enhances breast contour: By removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue, a breast lift creates a more shapely and symmetrical breast appearance.
- Corrects sagging and drooping: It addresses the issue of sagging breasts, which can improve self - confidence and make it easier to find well - fitting clothing.
- Boosts self - esteem and confidence: Many patients report feeling more confident and comfortable in their own bodies after a breast lift.
- Improves breast symmetry: If the breasts are uneven in size or shape, a breast lift can help to correct this asymmetry.
- Provides long - lasting results: With proper care and a stable lifestyle, the results of a breast lift can last for many years.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons for Breast Lift Surgery in New York City
New York City is home to many renowned hospitals and experienced surgeons who perform breast lift surgeries. Here are some of the top options:
1. William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon. He has performed over 500 successful breast plastic surgeries in the last 10 years. He is a winner of the 2022 top doctor award from New Beauty and a founding member of the Asian Society for Breast Plastic Reconstructive Surgery. The cost of breast lift surgery at his practice is approximately $10,000 - $20,000 (an accurate cost can be obtained during consultation). The surgery takes about 2 - 3 hours, and patients can return home on the day of surgery and resume routine activities within 1 - 2 weeks. Most patients see their final results in about 6 - 12 weeks.
2. Dr. Alizadeh at Cosmoplastic Surgery
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alizadeh has over 23 years of experience in performing breast lift surgeries in New York City. He developed the naturabra® surgical technique, which minimizes scarring and maximizes the lasting power of the results. The surgeon's fee starts at $15,000, not including surgery center fees or anesthesia fees. The procedure can be combined with breast augmentation, reduction, mommy makeover, or fat grafting. The recovery period is four to six weeks, and the results are long - term.
3. Doctors Plastic Surgery
At Doctors Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ross Ratner, MD FACS, is renowned as NYC's best breast lift surgeon. He is a dual - board certified plastic & reconstructive surgeon. The clinic offers affordable breast lift surgery with great flexible payment plans. They tailor each breast lift to the patient's unique body, ensuring natural - looking results. The cost of the surgery varies based on factors such as the extent of the procedure and the surgeon's expertise, and a personalized cost breakdown is provided during the consultation.
4. Shah Plastic Surgery
Dr. Nilay Shah offers breast lift procedures at his practice. Mastopexy at Shah Plastic Surgery is recommended for women who have experienced breast orientation changes due to aging and pregnancy. The cost of breast lift varies depending on the recommended technique and other factors evaluated during the consultation. The practice also provides financing options for patients.
5. Other Surgeons
There are also many other well - regarded surgeons in New York City. Healthgrades lists over 100 doctors who perform breast lift surgery in New York, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Some notable surgeons include Dr. Peter Henderson, MD (rated 4.80 out of 5 stars), Dr. Melissa Frey, MD (rated 5.00 out of 5 stars), and Dr. Heather Yeo, MD (rated 4.60 out of 5 stars).
Price Overview of Breast Lift Surgery in New York City
The cost of breast lift surgery in New York City can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's experience and reputation: Highly experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Complexity of the procedure: The degree of breast sagging, the type of incision required, and whether additional procedures are combined with the breast lift can all affect the cost.
- Anesthesia costs: Different types of anesthesia (local, general, or IV sedation) have different costs.
- Surgery center fees: The location and quality of the surgical facility can impact the overall cost.
- Post - operative care: Costs associated with follow - up appointments, medications, and support garments are also part of the total cost.
On average, the cost of breast lift surgery in New York City can range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more. However, it's important to note that these are just estimates, and patients should get a personalized quote during their consultation with a surgeon.
Recovery Process after Breast Lift Surgery
The recovery process after a breast lift is an important aspect to consider. Here's what patients can generally expect:
Immediate post - surgery
After the surgery, patients are moved from the operation theatre to a private recovery room. They are monitored for a few hours, and if everything goes well, they can go home on the same day (assuming no other surgeries were performed simultaneously). Bandages are applied over the operated area, and a surgical bra is provided to wear. Small tubes may be placed near the incisions to drain any fluid or blood, which are usually removed after several days.
First few weeks
There will be pain, swelling, and bruising in the operated area. The breasts will appear swollen for about 1 - 2 weeks, and there will be redness and pain around the incisions. The areola and nipple may be numb for a few days. Painkillers are often prescribed to manage the pain. Patients should plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off work and wear a surgical bra for 2 - 3 weeks, followed by a regular non - underwire bra for at least 6 weeks. They should also avoid excessive movement of the breasts, bending, lifting heavy objects, and sexual activity for at least 2 weeks.
Long - term recovery
Most people can return to normal activities within 4 - 6 weeks, with a gradual resumption of exercise. The final results of the breast lift will become more apparent as the swelling subsides and the breasts settle into their new shape, which can take several months.
Aftercare for Breast Lift Surgery
Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery and optimal results. Here are some aftercare tips:
- Follow doctor's instructions: Regularly visit the doctor for check - ups, take prescribed medications as directed, and follow all post - operative guidelines.
- Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can help with the healing process.
- Get adequate rest: Allow your body enough time to recover and avoid overexertion.
- Wear appropriate support: Continue to wear the surgical bra as recommended and avoid push - up bras for 5 - 6 weeks after the surgery.
- Keep incisions clean: Follow the doctor's instructions on how to clean and care for the incision sites to prevent infection.
- Avoid certain activities: As mentioned earlier, avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and bending for the recommended period.
Success Rate and Risks of Breast Lift Surgery
Success rate
According to a survey, about 80% of women are satisfied with breast lift surgery. Their bust is restored, and sagginess disappears. Most people experience long - lasting results, while others might need minor revisions after a few years.
Risks
Like any surgery, breast lift surgery carries some risks:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site, which can be treated with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery may require additional treatment.
- Scarring: Incisions will result in scars, although surgeons try to minimize their appearance. Scars may fade over time but may never completely disappear.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Nipple or breast sensation may change, either temporarily or permanently.
- Breast asymmetry: There may be a difference in the shape or size of the two breasts, which may require revisional surgery.
- Fat necrosis: Fatty tissue deep in the skin may die, causing lumps or other complications.
- Negative reactions to anesthesia: Some patients may have adverse reactions to the anesthesia used during the surgery.
Alternatives to Breast Lift Surgery
If you're not ready for surgery or prefer non - surgical options, there are several alternatives to breast lift surgery:
1. Padded bras
Padded bras or push - up bras can give a rounded contour to the breasts without the need for incisions. They lift the breasts up and eliminate the droopy appearance, but this is a temporary solution.
2. Vampire breast lift
In this procedure, platelet - rich plasma (PRP) injections are given. A numbing cream is first applied to the breasts. After they go numb, PRP along with hyaluronic acid is injected into the breasts. It tightens the breasts and lifts them up, and hyaluronic acid increases the efficacy of PRP. The procedure takes about 20 minutes.
3. Laser treatment
High - power laser is used to stimulate the growth of collagen. It only targets the outer layers of the skin, rejuvenating the skin and providing a mild lifting effect.
4. Caci bust treatment
A device releasing electrical impulses is moved over the breasts. It hydrates the skin and gives strength to the tissue, improving the contour of the breasts.
5. Botox
Botox injections are given into the chest muscles. As a result, these muscles relax, and the back muscles contract to lift the breasts higher. The effect can last for 3 - 4 months.
6. Thermage
Radio waves are used to tighten the skin of the bust. The production of collagen is stimulated, which helps to lift the skin of droopy breasts.
7. Chest exercises
Doing different chest exercises can strengthen the chest muscles, tighten the skin, and raise the breasts. It is more effective if performed under the supervision of an instructor.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon for Breast Lift Surgery
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for your breast lift surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are some factors to consider:
- Surgeon's credentials: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified and has extensive experience in performing breast lift surgeries. Check their training, certifications, and any awards or recognition they have received.
- Patient reviews and testimonials: Read reviews from previous patients to get an idea of their experiences and the quality of the surgeon's work.
- Before - and - after photos: Look at before - and - after photos of the surgeon's previous breast lift patients to assess the quality of their results.
- Hospital facilities: Consider the quality and safety of the hospital or surgical facility where the surgery will be performed. Make sure it is accredited and equipped with the necessary technology and resources.
- Communication and comfort: You should feel comfortable communicating with the surgeon and their staff. They should be able to answer all your questions and address your concerns.
- Cost and financing options: While cost should not be the only factor, it's important to understand the total cost of the surgery and explore any financing options available.
Conclusion
Breast lift surgery is a popular and effective option for women in New York City who want to address sagging breasts and achieve a more youthful and confident appearance. With many top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons in the city, patients have a wide range of choices. However, it's important to thoroughly research the procedure, understand the costs and risks, and choose the right surgeon and hospital for your needs. Whether you opt for surgery or one of the non - surgical alternatives, make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and goals.
If you're considering breast lift surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon in New York City. During the consultation, you can discuss your expectations, ask questions, and get a personalized treatment plan. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards enhancing your appearance and boosting your self - confidence.
