Introduction
Breast ptosis, or sagging breasts, is a common concern among many women in New York City. It can occur due to various factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight fluctuations. Breast ptosis suspension, also known as breast lift surgery or mastopexy, is a popular cosmetic procedure that aims to correct breast sagging, improve breast shape and position, and enhance a woman's overall appearance and confidence. In this article, we will explore the ranking of public departments for breast ptosis suspension in New York City, along with in - depth information about the procedure, doctors, and other related aspects.
Understanding Breast Ptosis and Breast Lift Surgery
What is Breast Ptosis?
Breast ptosis is characterized by the descent of the breast below the inframammary fold. The severity of breast ptosis can be classified into different grades:
- Glandular ptosis or pseudoptosis: The breast gland droops down below the inframammary fold, but the nipple - areola is positioned above the crease.
- Grade I ptosis: Both the gland and nipple droop slightly below the breast crease.
- Grade II ptosis: Gland and nipple droop more significantly below the crease.
- Grade III ptosis: The most severe form, associated with the nipple - areola at the lowest aspect of the drooping breast.
Factors Contributing to Breast Ptosis
Several factors can contribute to breast ptosis:
- Aging: As a woman ages, the skin loses its elasticity due to reduced collagen and elastin production, leading to sagging breasts.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: During pregnancy, the breasts enlarge, stretching the skin. After breastfeeding, the breasts may lose volume, but the stretched skin remains, resulting in sagging.
- Weight changes: Significant weight gain can stretch the skin, and subsequent weight loss may leave excess, sagging skin on the breasts.
- Gravity: The constant downward pull of gravity over time can cause the breasts to sag.
What is Breast Lift Surgery?
Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding breast tissue to lift and reshape the breasts. The procedure also repositions the nipple and areola to a more youthful height and may reduce the size of the areola if necessary. The specific surgical technique used depends on the degree of breast ptosis, breast size, and the patient's desired outcome.
Top Doctors for Breast Ptosis Suspension in New York City
Dr. Peter Henderson, MD
Dr. Peter Henderson is highly regarded in New York City. He has an excellent patient rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars (for breast lift surgery) and 4.70 out of 5 stars (for breast reduction). His office is located at 10 Union Sq E Frnt 2L, New York, NY 10003. Patients can be confident in his experience, as he has received numerous positive reviews from past patients.
Dr. Richard Reish
With a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars for breast reduction, Dr. Richard Reish is another top - tier option. His office is situated at 330 9th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215. His high rating indicates a high level of patient satisfaction and surgical expertise.
Dr. Leslie Cohen, MD
Dr. Leslie Cohen, with an address at 1283 York Avenue 4th floor, New York, NY 10065, has a rating of 4.70 out of 5 stars for breast reduction. Her experience and patient - centered approach make her a popular choice among patients seeking breast - related procedures.
Dr. Scot Glasberg, MD
Located at 42 E 74th St # A, New York, NY 10021, Dr. Scot Glasberg has a rating of 4.60 out of 5 stars. His proficiency in breast - related surgeries, including breast lift and reduction, is well - recognized in the New York City area.
Dr. Nolan Karp, MD
Based at 305 E 47th St Rm 1a, New York, NY 10017, Dr. Nolan Karp has a rating of 4.40 out of 5 stars for breast reduction. He provides personalized care and has a solid reputation for his surgical skills.
Dr. Alyssa Golas, MD
Dr. Alyssa Golas, whose office is at 150 55th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220, has a rating of 4.60 out of 5 stars. She offers a range of breast - enhancement procedures and is known for her attention to detail and patient care.
Dr. Basem Azab, MD
Dr. Basem Azab, located at 256 Mason Ave Bldg C Fl 3, Staten Island, NY 10305, has an outstanding rating of 5.00 out of 5 stars. He is on staff at Staten Island University Hospital and is highly recommended for breast surgeries.
Dr. Evan Matros, MD
With an office at 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, Dr. Evan Matros has a rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars. His expertise in breast lift and reduction surgeries has earned him a place among the top doctors in the city.
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD
Based at 820 Park Ave Ste 1b, New York, NY 10021, Dr. Norman Rowe has a rating of 4.50 out of 5 stars. He combines technical skill with an artistic eye to achieve natural - looking results in breast surgeries.
Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh
Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh is an internationally recognized plastic surgeon. He has over two decades of experience in performing breast lift surgeries in New York City. He developed the naturabra® surgical technique, which minimizes scarring and maximizes the effect and lasting power of the results. He has appeared in various news media and has treated world - class politicians, Oscar - winning actors, and Grammy - winning musicians. His office has locations in both Manhattan and Long Island, making it convenient for patients in different areas.
Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York. Every breast lift procedure with him is uniquely personalized and tailored specifically to both the patient's anatomy and desire. He takes into account various factors such as the degree of deflation, breast and nipple position, skin elasticity, and whether to use breast implants to determine the best surgical approach. His message emphasizes the creative and sculptural nature of breast lift surgery, aiming to achieve not only beautiful results but also an improvement in how patients feel about themselves.
Dr. William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao has performed over 500 successful breast plastic surgeries over the last 10 years. He is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan and a winner of the 2022 Top Doctor Award from New Beauty. He combines advanced surgical techniques from both the East and the West to customize procedures for his patients. His breast lift surgeries typically take 2 - 3 hours, and patients can expect to return home on the day of surgery and resume routine activities within 1 - 2 weeks.
Types of Breast Lift Procedures
Circumareolar Mastopexy
Also known as the “doughnut” or “periareolar” breast lift, this procedure involves making an incision around the areola only. It is suitable for patients with mild breast sagging and can also be used to reduce the size of the areola. The advantage of this method is that it results in less scarring compared to other techniques.
Circumvertical Mastopexy
Often referred to as the “lollipop” breast lift, this technique involves an incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease. It allows the surgeon to remove more skin and tissue than circumareolar mastopexy and is suitable for moderate breast sagging. The scarring is more visible than circumareolar mastopexy but less than the wise - pattern mastopexy.
Wise - Pattern Mastopexy
Also called the “inverted - t” breast lift, this procedure involves an incision around the areola, a vertical line down to the breast crease, and a horizontal line along the breast crease. It is used for severe breast sagging and allows for the most extensive lifting and reshaping of the breasts. However, it also results in the most visible scarring.
Augmentation Mastopexy
This is a combination of breast lift and breast augmentation. It is suitable for patients who not only have sagging breasts but also want to increase their breast size. The surgeon can use breast implants to add volume while simultaneously lifting and reshaping the breasts.
Factors Affecting the Ranking of Public Departments for Breast Ptosis Suspension
Surgeon Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the surgeons in a public department are crucial factors. Surgeons with a long history of performing successful breast lift surgeries are more likely to rank higher. Their knowledge of different surgical techniques, ability to handle complications, and artistic eye for achieving natural - looking results all contribute to the department's reputation.
Patient Satisfaction
Patient satisfaction is a key determinant of a department's ranking. Positive patient reviews, high ratings, and a low rate of post - operative complications indicate that the department provides high - quality care. Patient testimonials about their overall experience, from the consultation process to the recovery period, play an important role in shaping the department's image.
Technological Advancements
Departments that invest in the latest surgical technologies and equipment are more likely to offer better outcomes. Advanced technologies can make surgeries safer, more precise, and result in less scarring and shorter recovery times. For example, some departments may use state - of - the - art imaging techniques for pre - operative planning or innovative suture materials for faster wound healing.
Cost - Effectiveness
Cost is an important consideration for many patients. Public departments that offer high - quality breast lift surgeries at a reasonable cost are more likely to attract patients. However, it is important to note that the cost should not be the only factor, as the quality of care and the experience of the surgeon are also crucial.
Complication Rate
A low complication rate is a sign of a well - run department. Complications such as infection, bleeding, and poor scarring can significantly affect a patient's outcome and satisfaction. Departments that have a good track record of minimizing complications through proper pre - operative screening, strict surgical protocols, and comprehensive post - operative care are likely to rank higher.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After breast lift surgery, patients are typically monitored in a recovery room. They may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Patients are usually given a surgical support bra to wear, which helps to reduce swelling and support the breasts during the healing process. They may need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery, as they will be under the effects of anesthesia.
Short - Term Recovery
During the first few days to weeks after surgery, patients need to rest and avoid strenuous activities. They may need to take time off work, usually ranging from a few days to a week or more, depending on the nature of their job. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and the incisions will start to heal. The surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the healing process and remove any stitches if necessary.
Long - Term Recovery
It takes several weeks to months for the breasts to fully heal and settle into their new shape. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding exercise, diet, and wearing a supportive bra. They may need to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and certain types of clothing for a few months. The final results of the breast lift will become apparent as the swelling completely resolves and the breasts take on their new, lifted appearance.
Risks and Complications of Breast Lift Surgery
While breast lift surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks and potential complications:
- Scarring: All breast lift surgeries result in scars, which may vary in visibility depending on the surgical technique used. However, over time, the scars usually fade and become less noticeable.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, such as decreased sensitivity or numbness. In most cases, the sensation returns to normal within a few weeks to months, but in some rare cases, it may be permanent.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is usually required if an infection occurs.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur during or after surgery. In some cases, a hematoma (a collection of blood) may form, which may require further treatment to drain the blood.
- Breast Asymmetry: Although surgeons aim to create symmetrical breasts, there may be some degree of asymmetry after surgery. This can be due to factors such as differences in tissue healing or the natural shape of the breasts.
- Nipple or Areola Necrosis: In rare cases, the blood supply to the nipple or areola may be compromised, leading to tissue death. This is a serious complication that may require additional surgery.
Cost of Breast Lift Surgery in New York City
The cost of breast lift surgery in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's Fee: Highly experienced and well - known surgeons may charge more for their services. Fees can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Type of Procedure: Different breast lift techniques have different costs associated with them. Augmentation mastopexy, which combines breast lift and augmentation, is generally more expensive than a simple breast lift.
- Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used (general, local, or IV sedation) and the length of the surgery can affect the anesthesia fees.
- Surgery Center Fees: If the surgery is performed in a surgical center or hospital, there will be facility fees, which can vary depending on the location and the quality of the facility.
- Post - Operative Care: This includes the cost of medications, follow - up appointments, and any necessary support garments.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Lift Surgery
Most insurance companies do not cover breast lift surgery because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, in some cases, if the breast ptosis is causing significant physical discomfort, such as back or shoulder pain, and can be medically documented, the insurance company may cover part or all of the cost. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine their coverage and what documentation is required.
Choosing the Right Public Department for Breast Ptosis Suspension
When choosing a public department for breast ptosis suspension in New York City, consider the following tips:
- Research Surgeons: Look for surgeons with board certification, extensive experience in breast lift surgeries, and positive patient reviews. Check their credentials, training, and any awards or recognition they have received.
- Schedule Consultations: Schedule consultations with several surgeons to discuss your goals, concerns, and the surgical options available. Pay attention to how the surgeon listens to you, answers your questions,