Saggy Breasts With “Ptosis”
“Ptosis” refers to a saggy breast. It is measured by noting the position of the nipple as it relates to the inframammary fold. A nipple at or below the fold is considered low.
Ptosis makes the appearance of the breast “sad,” or “boring.” There is a loss of superior breast fullness. The nipple sits low on the face of the breast and can point to the floor. These are all characteristics of a matronly, non-youthful, non-perky breast.
Ptosis is inevitable in all breasts except maybe for the smallest ones. Significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy, lack of bra use, and poor genetics are all related to breast ptosis. Ptosis makes the upper chest longer and the abdomen shorter—attributes that are unattractive in most women.
Ptosis after a breast augmentation occurs as the breast falls over time—it essentially falls off the breast implant. The breast implant can also slide down the chest because of gravity—“my breasts used to sit up higher but have fallen over time.”
The treatment for breast ptosis depends on the cause. A low implant may be moved higher. Loose, hanging breast tissue can be lifted and shaped into a more youthful position. My very own BAR procedure (Breast Augmentation and Reduction) is very useful in addressing breast ptosis.
Performing a breast “lift” on a previously augmented breast can be a challenge, and should best be left in the hands of expert surgeons.
