Overview
What sagging looks like
The medical term is ptosis. As breasts drop, the nipple can sit at or below the crease underneath, the upper part of the breast looks flatter, and the nipples may point down. Surgeons grade it from mild to severe based on where the nipple sits compared to that crease.
What causes it
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight gain and loss, aging, and gravity all stretch the skin and tissue that hold the breast up. Breast size and genetics matter too. Once the skin has stretched, exercise and even the best bra won't put the breast back where it was.
How a breast lift works
In a breast lift (mastopexy), Dr. Kim removes extra skin and reshapes the breast tissue so it sits higher, with the nipple moved up to match. The incision depends on how much lift you need. A small amount may only require an incision around the areola, while more lift usually means a vertical or anchor-shaped incision.
A lift fixes position and shape but doesn't add much volume. If the top of your breast looks empty, pairing the lift with breast augmentation is common.
If you're planning more pregnancies or expect a big change in weight, it may be worth waiting. Both can undo some of the lift.
Recommended Treatment
Breast Lift
A Breast Lift (Mastopexy) is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin, tightening supportive tissue, and repositioning the nipple-areolar complex for a more youthful, lifted appearance. At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Charles Kim performs advanced mastopexy techniques that prioritize natural breast shape, balanced proportions, and long-lasting results. Using meticulous surgical planning, Dr. Kim tailors each breast lift to the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, restoring firmness and symmetry while maintaining a soft, natural contour. Mastopexy can be performed alone or combined with breast augmentation or reduction for enhanced results.
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