At Dr. Jack Peterson’s practice, we believe that empowering patients through knowledge fosters clear conversations and realistic expectations. Today’s topic is breast ptosis, a common condition among women, often linked to age, gravity, and biological changes such as pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is Breast Ptosis?
Breast ptosis is a medical term for sagging breasts. This condition occurs when the supporting structures of the breast — the skin and Cooper’s ligaments — lose their elasticity and strength.
Causes of Breast Ptosis
A variety of factors can lead to breast ptosis. Some are inevitable, such as:
- Age: With time, all parts of the body experience changes, and the breasts are no exception. Aging tissues become less firm and elastic, leading to a droopier appearance.
- Gravity: Breasts comprise fats and glandular tissues, which do not have muscle fibers. Thus, they cannot resist the pull of gravity, which over time leads to sagging.
However, some causes are specific life events:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The size and weight of the breasts increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding, stretching the skin and structures that support them. Once breastfeeding concludes, the breasts might not regain their previous form, leading to sagging.
- Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight changes cause the skin to stretch and shrink. Repeated cycles of weight gain and loss can lead to breast sagging.
Evaluation of Breast Ptosis
To evaluate the level of breast sagging, plastic surgeons use the Regnault ptosis grade scale. It includes three grades of severity based on where the nipple sits relative to the inframammary fold—the crease under the breast where it meets the chest wall.
Regnault Ptosis Scale
- Grade I: Mild Ptosis — The nipple is at the level of the inframammary fold and above most of the lower breast tissue.
- Grade II: Moderate Ptosis — The nipple is located below the inframammary fold but still higher than most of the lower breast tissue.
- Grade III: Advanced Ptosis — The nipple is well below the fold and at the level of maximum breast projection.
- Pseudoptosis: The nipple is in a normal position or even higher, while the majority of the breast tissue, including the lower pole, sags below the inframammary fold.
At Dr. Jack Peterson’s practice, we use this grading system to accurately assess patients’ needs and prepare individual treatment plans successfully.
Treatments for Breast Ptosis
Breast ptosis can be managed using various treatments, depending largely on the severity of the sagging and the patient’s personal goals. Here are the options available at our clinic:
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Often the chosen treatment for moderate to severe breast ptosis, a breast lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue. It effectively raises and firms the breasts, reshaping them without significantly changing their size. In the hands of an accomplished plastic surgeon like Dr. Jack Peterson, a breast lift can beautifully restore the youthful appeal of your breasts. This treatment is suitable for women whose breasts have changed due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, or the natural aging process. Mastopexy can be a standalone surgery or performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as a Mommy Makeover or breast augmentation.
Breast Augmentation
For patients who wish to improve their breasts’ size, shape, and symmetry alongside treating mild to moderate ptosis, breast augmentation using implants is a viable solution. A well-executed breast augmentation can significantly boost a woman’s confidence and appearance, correcting uneven breasts or restoring breast volume lost due to weight loss or pregnancy.
Breast Augmentation with Lift
This combined procedure offers both the benefits of breast augmentation and breast lift. It is perfect for patients who not only want an increase in volume but also desire a more youthful, perky breast position.
What to Expect
While the specific expectations can vary based on the procedure and individual circumstances, patients should ensure they are in good health and maintain realistic expectations for results. Also, keep in mind that while treatments like a breast lift or augmentation can greatly improve the appearance of breast ptosis, no procedure can permanently negate the effects of gravity and age. Ongoing care and potential for future adjustments should be factored into any decision for surgical intervention.
Dr. Jack Peterson’s clinic in Topeka, Kansas, is committed to enhancing patients’ lives one meticulous procedure at a time, helping them regain their confidence and love their bodies once more. Whether you are seeking remedies for breast ptosis or exploring other avenues for body enhancement, we are here to guide you through the journey.
