Introduction
For women in New York City who are considering a breast lift, finding the right cosmetic hospital and surgeon is crucial. A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that can help reverse the effects of aging, pregnancy, weight loss, and gravity on the breasts, resulting in a more youthful and lifted appearance. In this article, we will explore the top breast lifting cosmetic hospitals in New York City, along with the best doctors, the procedure details, benefits, risks, and frequently asked questions.
Top Breast Lifting Cosmetic Hospitals and Doctors in New York City
1. Dr. William Lao
Dr. William Lao is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. He has over 500 successful breast plastic surgeries in the last 10 years. He is double - board - certified in both the USA and Taiwan and won the 2022 top doctor award from New Beauty. He is a founding member of the Asian Society for Breast Plastic Reconstructive Surgery and a member of several prominent plastic surgery societies. His breast lift surgery usually takes 2 - 3 hours, and the price ranges from approximately $10,000 - $20,000. Patients can return home on the day of surgery and get back to routine within 1 - 2 weeks. He offers different types of breast lift techniques, such as augmentation mastopexy, circumareolar mastopexy, circumvertical mastopexy, and wise - pattern mastopexy.
2. Dr. Philipp Franck
Dr. Philipp Franck is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who completed his training at two prestigious Ivy League university hospitals. He is named one of New York’s rising star surgeons by the New York Times Magazine since 2023 and serves as a clinical assistant professor at Cornell University Hospital in New York. His breast lift surgery can be tailored to each patient's anatomy. He offers different incision options, including periareolar (donut lift), vertical (lollipop lift), and anchor (inverted - t lift) based on the degree of breast sagging. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and patients can expect to go home the same day with manageable discomfort.
3. Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He is specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. He has appeared on the New York Times top doctors and Super Doctors in plastic surgery lists. At Maman Plastic Surgery, patients can expect a 90 - minute consultation that includes a thorough review of medical history, in - depth physical assessment, comprehensive operative plans, review of cost, accommodations, and follow - up visits. They offer various incision options for breast lift, including circumareolar, lollipop, and anchor incisions, and also provide luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels.
4. 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. His office provides detailed information about the procedure during the consultation, including the causes of breast sagging and the different surgical techniques. He offers both full mastopexy and periareolar mastopexy. The full mastopexy involves an anchor - shaped incision for significant lifting and reshaping, while the periareolar mastopexy is suitable for mild to moderate sagging with minimal scarring. The surgery usually takes 2 - 2.5 hours under general anesthesia.
5. Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh
Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience. He is highly regarded for his patient - centered approach. He has developed the naturabra® breast lift technique, which minimizes scarring and maximizes the effect and lasting power of the results. The technique creates an internal support using the patient's own tissue to form an internal bra. His practice offers different anesthesia options, including local, general, or IV sedation. The recovery period for the naturabra® breast lift is about four to six weeks, and the results are long - term.
Breast Lift Procedure Details
What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. It involves removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to support and contour a new, rejuvenated breast profile. The nipple and areola may also be repositioned to a higher, more youthful position, and in some cases, the areola size can be reduced. The most common causes of breast sagging include aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and gravity.
Types of Breast Lift Incisions
Incision Type | Description | Suitability |
---|---|---|
Circumareolar Mastopexy (Donut Lift) | The incision is made around the areola only. It can address mild sagging and may reduce the size of the areola. | Patients with mild breast ptosis |
Circumvertical Mastopexy (Lollipop Lift) | An incision is made around the areola with a vertical line heading downwards to the breast crease. It allows for more skin and tissue removal than the circumareolar mastopexy and has less scarring than the full breast lift. | Patients with moderate breast sagging |
Wise - Pattern Mastopexy (Inverted - T Lift) | The incision is made around the areola, a vertical line down the bottom of the breast, and a horizontal line along the breast fold. This technique allows for extensive skin removal and tightening of the deeper layer of breast tissue. | Patients with significant breast sagging |
Steps of the Breast Lift Procedure
- Preparation and Marking: The surgeon will mark the planned incision sites while the patient is standing to ensure the most precise placement and optimal lift.
- Anesthesia: Breast lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia for patient comfort, although different sedation options may be considered based on individual preference and medical needs.
- Incision Placement: The surgeon will make the appropriate incisions based on the patient's degree of sagging and desired results.
- Tissue Reshaping: Excess skin is removed, and the underlying breast tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve contour and firmness.
- Areola Repositioning: The areola may be reduced in size if necessary and moved to a higher, more youthful position on the breast.
- Closing the Incisions: Sutures are placed in layers within the breast tissue to create and support its new shape, and the skin is closed with meticulous technique to minimize scarring.
Benefits of a Breast Lift
- Youthful Appearance: Achieve elevated, perkier breasts that make you look and feel more youthful.
- Improved Symmetry: Correct uneven breast positioning or asymmetrical nipples.
- Enhanced Confidence: Feel more comfortable in clothing, swimwear, or lingerie with a lifted and reshaped profile.
- Long - Lasting Results: While natural aging continues, many women enjoy the benefits of a breast lift for years, making it a worthwhile investment.
- Improved Clothing Fit: Clothes, especially bras and swimsuits, will fit better, giving you a more flattering silhouette.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, breast lift carries certain risks. It's important to be aware of these potential complications:
- Infection or Bleeding: Proper wound care and following post - operative instructions help minimize these risks.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Temporary or, in rare cases, long - term changes in sensation can occur.
- Poor Healing or Scarring: Some individuals may be prone to less favorable scarring or delayed wound healing.
- Asymmetry or Revisional Surgery: Small differences in breast shape or position can occasionally require revision.
- Breastfeeding: Changes in breastfeeding can occur after any type of breast surgery.
- Fat Necrosis: Fatty tissue found deep in the skin may die.
- Fluid Accumulation: Fluid may build up around the surgical site.
- Negative Reactions to the Anesthesia: Some patients may have adverse reactions to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
Candidates for a Breast Lift
To determine if you're a candidate for a breast lift, consider the following factors:
- General Health: You should be in good overall health without uncontrolled medical issues.
- Stable Weight: Significant weight fluctuations post - surgery can affect results. It's advisable to reach a stable weight before the procedure.
- Concerns about Breast Sagging: If your breasts have lost shape or volume, or the nipples are downward - pointing or displaced due to loss of skin elasticity, you may be a good candidate.
- Nonsmoker or Willing to Quit: Smoking can impair healing; quitting is highly advisable before and after surgery.
- Realistic Expectations: Understand that a breast lift will primarily address breast sagging rather than significantly increase breast size. If you want to increase size, you may consider combining with breast augmentation.
Recovery Process
Immediately After Surgery
After the breast lift surgery, bandages will be placed over your breasts, and you will likely be given a surgical support bra to wear. You may experience bruising and swelling for one to two weeks and may be given medication to help ease any discomfort or pain after your procedure. You should arrange for someone to drive you home and help you out for the first few days.
First Week
Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal. You’ll wear a soft surgical bra to provide gentle compression and support. Most of the sutures dissolve on their own and do not require removal. You should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending. Many people resume light activities within a week or two, but strenuous exercise or heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4 - 6 weeks.
Long - Term Recovery
It can take a few weeks for the swelling to fully subside, and you will be able to appreciate the new shape of your breast. You may start to see the final results in about 6 - 12 weeks as your breasts settle into place. You should follow all recovery and aftercare instructions given by your surgeon, such as keeping the incision sites clean and dry, avoiding direct sunlight on the incisions, and attending follow - up appointments.
Combining Breast Lift with Other Procedures
Many women choose to combine a breast lift with additional treatments for a more comprehensive transformation:
- Breast Augmentation: Adding implants can restore lost volume for a fuller appearance. This is especially popular for women who have lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss.
- Breast Reduction: For those seeking both lift and reduction of excess tissue, this combination can help achieve the desired breast size and shape.
- Tummy Tuck or Liposuction: A “mommy makeover” approach can address multiple areas in one surgical session, such as tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess fat from the abdomen or other areas of the body.
Cost of Breast Lift in New York City
The cost of a breast lift in New York City can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the type of incisions used, anesthesia costs, and surgical facility fees. On average, the cost can range from approximately $8,000 - $20,000 or more. Some surgeons may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a breast lift increase my cup size?
A breast lift primarily improves the shape and position of the breasts and does not typically increase cup size. However, it can make the breasts appear larger because they are firmer and more lifted. If you want to increase cup size, you can consider combining a breast lift with breast augmentation using implants or autologous fat transfer.
Can I get a breast lift and implants simultaneously?
Yes, many patients choose to combine breast lift and augmentation procedures to achieve overall enhancements in a single session. This can provide more dramatic results and save time and cost associated with multiple surgeries and recovery periods.
How is a breast lift different from a breast reduction?
While both procedures involve contouring the breasts, a breast lift is focused on lifting and reshaping sagging breasts, while a breast reduction is primarily aimed at decreasing the cup size by removing excess breast tissue.
Will I have scars after the breast lift?
Yes, there will be scars from the incisions. However, skilled surgeons will place the incisions in strategic locations, such as around the areola and along natural breast folds, to minimize their visibility. Over time, the scars will fade and become less noticeable, especially with proper scar - management techniques.
How long do the breast lift results last?
Generally, patients can enjoy the breast lift results for 10 - 15 years before a revision may be needed. However, factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can affect the longevity of the results. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results.
When can I stop wearing bras after a lift?
After a breast lift, you need to wear compression garments and surgical bras to support the breasts and promote better healing. After about six weeks, you can gradually start going braless on special occasions, but it's advisable to continue wearing supportive bras for an extended period.
What are the activity limitations after a breast lift?
After surgery, you should avoid lifting heavy objects, pushing heavy carts or strollers, and performing strenuous exercises for at least 4 - 6 weeks. You may resume light activities, such as walking, within a week or two. Smoking should also be avoided for several weeks after surgery to ensure optimal healing.
When will I regain nipple sensation after a breast lift?
Any loss in nipple sensation should resolve within 8 weeks after the breast lift procedure. In rare cases, the loss of sensation may be permanent.
Is breast lift surgery safer than implants?
Breast lifts are often considered to be safer than breast augmentations with implants, but all surgical procedures carry an inherent risk of infections and scarring. Surgeons use the safest techniques during both procedures to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications.
Conclusion
A breast lift can be a life - changing procedure for women in New York City who are bothered by sagging breasts. By choosing a reputable cosmetic hospital and an experienced surgeon, you can achieve the youthful and lifted breast appearance you desire. It's important to thoroughly research your options, understand the procedure, its benefits, risks, and recovery process, and have realistic expectations. If you're considering a breast lift, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons in New York City to discuss your goals and determine the best approach for you.
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