Introduction
Breast sagging is a common concern among many women, which can be caused by various factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight changes. In New York City, there are several hospitals offering advanced technologies and surgical procedures to correct severe breast sagging. This article will introduce three well - known hospitals in New York City that are recognized for their expertise in this field.
Factors Contributing to Breast Sagging
Before delving into the hospitals, it's important to understand why breasts sag. As we age, the production of collagen and elastin in the skin tissues reduces. These proteins are responsible for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. Over time, the decrease in their production leads to a loss of support in the breast tissues, resulting in sagging.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding also play a major role. During pregnancy, the breasts become heavier and fuller, causing the skin to stretch. After breastfeeding, the breasts lose volume, but the stretched skin may not return to its original state, leaving behind sagging and excess skin.
Significant weight gain can cause the skin to stretch, and after weight loss, the skin may not be able to shrink back fully, leading to sagging. Additionally, the constant downward pull of gravity over time also contributes to the sagging of breast tissues.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Overview
Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - respected medical institution in New York City. It has a team of highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons who are experts in breast enhancement procedures, including the correction of severe breast sagging.
The hospital offers a warm, caring, and supportive environment for patients. This is particularly important when discussing very private and sensitive concerns about one's body. The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai will have confidential consultations with patients, providing them with all the necessary information to make an educated decision about their breast - related procedures.
Breast Reduction for Sagging
One of the procedures offered at Mount Sinai to correct severe breast sagging is breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty). Having overly large breasts can be a physical and emotional burden. Women with large, sagging breasts may experience neck, back, and shoulder pain due to the weight of the breasts. Breast reduction can help alleviate these symptoms.
To be eligible for breast reduction surgery at Mount Sinai, patients should maintain a healthy, stable weight. Planning future pregnancies is not advisable as it can affect the results of the surgery. The patient should also be physically mature with fully - developed breasts and emotionally mature about their choice of the procedure.
The benefits of breast reduction for correcting sagging include less pain in the neck, back, and shoulders, improved self - confidence about breast size, decreased breast size to be in proportion with the body frame, nipples pointing in a more upward position, relief from chafing and skin irritation caused by sagging breast skin, and a more balanced size of the breasts.
Patients may also have the option to combine breast reduction with breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover for a more complete enhancement. The surgeons at Mount Sinai will work with patients during the consultation to determine the right combination of procedures to achieve their plastic surgery goals. However, if a patient intends to become pregnant or lose weight, the surgeon may encourage them to postpone the breast reduction surgery until after these events, as pregnancy and weight change can reverse the improvements from the surgery.
Patient Experience
Mount Sinai has a high patient - satisfaction rate. The hospital provides comprehensive post - operative care, including follow - up visits, compression garments, and consultations with an anesthesiologist and post - op medications. The staff is known for their professionalism and dedication to ensuring patients have a smooth recovery process.
With a large patient volume, Mount Sinai has a wealth of experience in dealing with various breast - related issues, which gives patients confidence in the quality of care they will receive.
Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Expertise in Breast Lift
Dr. John E. Sherman is a skilled and board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His practice is well - known for its expertise in breast lift procedures (mastopexy). A breast lift is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting breast ptosis, which occurs when the breasts sag below the inframammary fold.
Dr. Sherman has helped numerous women achieve stunning results through breast lift procedures. His extensive experience and specialization in this area ensure that patients receive exceptional outcomes. The dedicated staff at his practice also provides a first - class experience for patients from start to finish.
Types of Breast Lift Procedures
There are different types of breast lift procedures offered at Dr. Sherman's practice. The full mastopexy allows for significant lifting and reshaping of the breasts. An incision is made around the areola, extending vertically downward from the areola to the breast crease, and sometimes horizontally along the breast crease, creating an anchor - shaped incision pattern. Excess skin is removed, and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful position. The breast tissue is also reshaped and lifted to create a more aesthetically pleasing contour.
The periareolar mastopexy, also known as a “donut” or “circumareolar” mastopexy, is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate breast sagging. It focuses on lifting and reshaping the breasts with minimal scarring.
Patient Requirements and Preparation
Potential candidates for a breast lift at Dr. Sherman's practice typically have sagging or drooping breasts due to factors such as aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or genetic predisposition. They should be in overall good health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure, have a stable weight, and be emotionally and mentally prepared for the surgery, understanding the potential risks and complications.
Patients who smoke are not eligible for the breast lift operation at Dr. Sherman's practice due to the increased risk of complications. Smoking restricts blood circulation to the nipple and surrounding tissues. If a patient is a smoker, they must cease smoking for a minimum of one month before the surgery, and nicotine patches and gum are not acceptable alternatives.
Before the surgery, Dr. Sherman will guide patients through the preparation process, including which medications to start or stop, how to prepare their home, and how much time to take off work for recovery. Patients need to arrange for a ride home from the hospital and care during the initial 24 - hour recovery period.
Recovery and Results
After the breast lift procedure, patients are monitored and then allowed to return home. The level of pain on the first night is generally reported as mild and can be managed with prescribed medication. Swelling and bruising around the breasts are common, and patients are provided with a surgical bra or compression garment to aid in recovery. Sutures are typically removed within seven days following the surgery.
It takes about a week or two to resume most normal activities, while more strenuous physical activities should be avoided for a few additional weeks. The final results of the breast lift will become fully visible once all swelling and bruising have subsided. The breasts will appear shapelier and more youthful, and the outcomes are expected to last for many years. However, it's important to maintain a stable and healthy weight to preserve the enhanced breast contours.
Comparison of Different Procedures for Correcting Breast Sagging
Table: Procedure Comparison
| Procedure | Incision Pattern | Suitability | Benefits | Potential Risks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Mastopexy | Anchor - shaped (around areola, vertical, and sometimes horizontal along breast crease) | Severe breast sagging | Significant lifting and reshaping, repositioning of nipple and areola, aesthetically pleasing contour | More visible scars, risk of diminished nipple sensation, nipple circulation problems |
| Periareolar Mastopexy | Around the areola | Mild to moderate breast sagging | Minimal scarring, lifting and reshaping | Less effective for severe sagging, possible mild scarring around areola |
| Breast Reduction | Varies depending on technique, may involve vertical and horizontal incisions | Large, sagging breasts with associated physical pain | Alleviates pain, reduces breast size, improves body proportion | Scarring, changes in nipple sensation, risk of asymmetry |
Other Considerations for Choosing a Hospital or Surgeon
Credentials and Experience
When choosing a hospital or surgeon for correcting severe breast sagging, it's crucial to look at the credentials and experience of the plastic surgeons. Surgeons with board certification in plastic surgery and extensive experience in breast - related procedures are more likely to provide high - quality care. For example, at Mount Sinai, the plastic surgeons are highly trained and qualified, and Dr. John E. Sherman is board - certified and has a long - standing reputation in breast lift procedures.
Advanced Technology
Hospitals equipped with the latest technology can offer more precise and safe procedures. Although not all details of the specific technologies used at these hospitals are provided, well - established institutions like Mount Sinai are likely to invest in advanced surgical equipment and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into a hospital's or surgeon's bedside manner and the quality of care. Patients can look for reviews online or ask for referrals from friends or family who have undergone similar procedures. For instance, Mount Sinai has a high patient - satisfaction rate, which is a positive indication of the quality of care it provides.
Comprehensive Care
Comprehensive care, including psychological support and patient education, is crucial. Hospitals should provide pre - operative consultations to ensure patients understand the procedure, its risks, and expected outcomes. Post - operative care, such as follow - up visits, should also be comprehensive to monitor the recovery process and address any concerns that may arise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mount Sinai Hospital and Dr. John E. Sherman's practice are two notable options in New York City for correcting severe breast sagging. Mount Sinai offers breast reduction surgery as well as the option to combine it with other procedures for a more comprehensive enhancement. Dr. Sherman's practice specializes in breast lift procedures, with different techniques available to suit patients with varying degrees of breast sagging.
When considering these or other options, patients should carefully evaluate factors such as the surgeon's credentials, the hospital's technology, patient reviews, and the level of comprehensive care provided. Making an informed decision will help patients achieve the best possible results and have a positive experience throughout the process.
If you are interested in learning more about correcting severe breast sagging, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. You can also do further research to explore other available options and make the choice that is best for you. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards enhancing your appearance and confidence.
