Strategies For Fixing Breast Ptosis And Restoring Breast Shape

Breast ptosis, also known as sagging breasts, is a common condition that affects many women. As women age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight changes, and gravity can all contribute to breasts losing their youthful shape and perkiness. While some degree of breast drooping is normal, significant ptosis can be bothersome physically and psychologically for many women. The good news is that there are several effective strategies for reshaping and restoring a more youthful, perky breast contour.

Breast Lift Surgery 

A breast lift or mastopexy is often the best solution for moderate to severe ptosis. Excess stretched-out skin is surgically removed during a breast lift, and the remaining breast tissue is tightened and reshaped. The nipple and areola are also repositioned higher on the breast mound to help create a perkier profile. Breast implants can be combined with a lift for optimal reshaping and volume enhancement for women who want larger, fuller breasts.

A few different surgical techniques for mastopexy can address mild, moderate, or significant drooping. The type of incision pattern used, such as around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, or an anchor shape pattern, will depend on how much lifting and reshaping needs to be done. Women considering breast lift surgery should consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which technique suits their needs and desired outcome.

Breast Implants

Getting breast augmentation is another surgical option that can help restore breast fullness and a youthful shape in addition to lifting the breast. Saline or silicone implants come in various sizes and can be placed under or over the muscle for subtle to dramatic cleavage enhancement. When combined with mastopexy, implants deliver both lifting and increased volume. 

For women who don’t necessarily want bigger breasts, a breast lift can minimise sagging while retaining a natural breast shape and size. Likewise, implants alone can provide upper breast fullness and lift mild ptosis without mastopexy. A consultation with a plastic surgeon is vital for deciding whether a lift, augmentation, or both procedures are suitable for restoring breast perkiness and proportions.

Non-Surgical Options

For mild to moderate ptosis or when surgery is not desired, some non-surgical options can provide breast lifting and tightening:

ThermiTight uses radiofrequency technology to heat tissue and stimulate collagen production for firmer, tighter breast skin. Mild lifting and shaping can be achieved with ThermiTight, but it does not address significant sagging.

Ultrasound therapy, like Ultherapy, utilises ultrasound waves to heat deeper tissue layers, gradually leading to upliftment and skin tightening. No recovery time is typically required, but multiple sessions are usually necessary. It works well for enhancing breast shape, particularly in cases of mild sagging.

Laser skin tightenings like Cutera’s Pearl and Pearl Fractional Lasers rejuvenate the outer skin layers. This causes new collagen growth, which gradually firms and lifts breast skin. A series of treatments provide gradual tightening and mild enhancement of breast contour.

Brest vacuum therapy uses an external suction device to pull breast tissue upward and stimulate circulation gently. Regular use can provide mild lifting, but results are temporary. It requires about 10-20 minutes of use per treatment session.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle adjustments can also help breasts retain their shape and fullness:

Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or experiencing significant weight fluctuations can contribute to breast sagging over time.

Getting Adequate Exercise: Being inactive leads to poor muscle tone, which allows breast tissue to sag. Incorporating strength training for the chest muscles helps provide an internal lift.

Using Proper Support: A supportive bra that lifts and separates the breasts helps fight the effects of gravity. Sleeping in a bra can minimise overnight breast drooping. 

Massage: Regular breast massage encourages circulation and drainage, improving the appearance of breast skin. Massage a natural oil onto the breasts using circular motions and gentle compression.

Topical creams: When used consistently, volumising and tightening creams containing caffeine or peptides can temporarily fortify breast skin. They provide mild lifting and fullness.  

Hydration: Getting plenty of fluids keeps breast skin supple and elastic to better resist sagging. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily.

Healthy Fats: Mono and polyunsaturated fats support healthy breast tissue and may help enhance breast shape. Foods like salmon, walnuts, and avocado provide beneficial fats. 

Smoking and Sun Avoidance: Smoking damages skin collagen and elastin, allowing breasts to droop more easily. Protect breasts from UV rays, which can degrade breast skin over time.

The Verdic

While breast ptosis is common, solutions are available to lift, tighten, and restore a more youthful breast profile, both surgically and non-surgically. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to one’s unique needs and cosmetic goals for perky, uplifted breasts.