As women age, it’s natural for their breasts to lose elasticity and sag. Sagging breasts, also known as ptosis of breasts, is a common condition that plastic surgeons often treat. While some women may not be interested in enhancing the appearance of their breasts through surgery, for others, it can be life-changing to alter their best condition.

What is a sagging breast?

Sagging breasts, also known as breast ptosis, is the drooping or downward sagging of a woman’s breasts. This occurs as a natural consequence of ageing and can be exacerbated by factors such as genetics, pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and gravity.

While sagging breasts are a normal part of the ageing process, some women may be self-conscious or unhappy with the appearance of their breasts. In such cases, surgical procedures such as breast lift or breast reduction may be done to improve breast’s appearance of the breasts.

However, the choice of surgical treatments depends on the degree of ptosis of breasts.

There are three stages of ptosis of breasts:

• First-degree breast ptosis (Mild Ptosis): if the nipple is even with the fold.
• Second-degree breast ptosis (Moderate Ptosis): if the nipple is below the fold.
• Third-degree breast ptosis (Severe Ptosis): if the nipple points downward.

Symptoms of sagging breasts

Breasts change like any other body part. Here are some of the most common indications of sagging breasts:

• Nipples pointing downwards: The position of the nipple determines the degree of breast ptosis, and if it is below the breast fold, the woman is likely to have sagging breasts.
• Lacking fullness: If there is a noticeable change in the volume of the upper part of the breast, it indicates sagging breasts.
• Lowering of breasts: The overall lowering of the breasts and a shift in their position signify sagging breasts.

Causes of sagging breasts

Sagging breasts are commonly caused by ageing. However, factors other than age can also cause sagging breasts, such as being overweight, exposure to the sun’s UV rays, menopause, certain medical conditions like breast cancer and tuberculosis, multiple pregnancies, and smoking.

Sagging breasts treatment

Sagging breasts are a common concern for many women. While it is not possible to fully restore their original shape and size, some surgical treatment options can help with sagging breasts:

1. Breast Lift Surgery: Also known as Mastopexy, this surgery removes excess skin to lift sagging breasts into a more desirable position, providing support to the breasts.
2. Breast Augmentation: This surgery is effective in reducing breast size and treating sagging. The type of breast augmentation depends on the woman’s breast size, and in some cases, it may be combined with a lift surgery if the nipple size is also an issue.

In some cases, Dr Rory may include a combination of surgeries to attain the expected results.

Dr Rory’s approach to sagging breasts treatment

Dr Rory McGoldrick is one of the most reputed plastic surgeons in Dubai, with thorough experience in doing breast surgeries. His diagnosis and breast measurement rely on clinical photographs that help him draw an accurate surgery plan for treating the ptosis of breasts. 

Dr Rory compares the position of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) to the inframammary fold. Depending on the degree of ptosis, mild, moderate or severe, Dr Rory chooses the treatment. Sometimes the NAC is in the correct position, but the breast tissue sags below the fold, called pseudoptosis.

The treatment for ptosis depends on its severity, and it may involve breast augmentation alone, breast lift (mastopexy) alone, breast reduction alone, or a combination of these procedures. Breast augmentation involves the surgical placement of a Motiva cohesive gel silicone breast implant or fat taken from another part of the body via liposuction in the appropriate size.

Aftercare of sagging breast surgery (How to prevent recurrence)

After undergoing sagging breast surgery, it is crucial to take proper care to prevent a recurrence. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Wear a supportive bra for at least up to six weeks post-surgery.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3. Avoid smoking and drinking. 
4. Protect the breasts from sun damage.
5. Follow the surgeon’s instructions. 

By following these steps, you can help prevent sagging breasts from recurring after surgery and maintain the desired results.

Book an appointment with Dr Rory and learn about saggy breasts treatment.