How to Correct Ptosis Without a Mastopexy

Ptosis of the breast occurs when there is not enough tissue to fill the breast's skin. There are two types of ptosis, though they might exist in the same person at the same time. The first is when the nipple has dropped in position to below the inframammary crease, the place where the bottom of the breast meets the chest. The second is when the nipple maintains a position above the inframammary crease but the surrounding breast tissue has fallen. Depending on the type of ptosis you have, you might be able to correct it with an implant instead of a breast lift or mastopexy.

Instructions

• 1

  Locate a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and who has experience with breast ptosis. Ask for before and after photographs of past patients who have had ptosis corrected by breast augmentation instead of mastoplexy.

• 2

  Evaluate your options with the plastic surgeon regarding your type of breast ptosis. Ask specifically what results you can expect in correcting your type and degree of ptosis without a mastopexy versus with a mastopexy. Ask questions regarding potential changes in nipple sensitivity, areola size, scarring and ability to breast feed after breast augmentation surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy) or after having both surgeries.

• 3

  Opt for a breast augmentation surgery if you want to correct your ptosis without mastopexy. Be sure to tell your surgeon what size breast (cup size) you want to have after the augmentation surgery. Discuss the options of saline or silicone implants and the advantages and disadvantages of both options (see the Resources sections for additional questions to ask your surgeon).