What is breast ptosis
Dec 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Mei Quan
Introduction
Breast ptosis is caused by hyperplasia of the glandular and connective tissues within the breast, leading to breast enlargement followed by shrinkage. The stretched skin and suspensory support structures lose their elasticity and are unable to recoil or recover under the influence of gravity, resulting in sagging, bag-like breasts. Depending on the severity of ptosis, it can be classified into three degrees: Degree I: Mild ptosis, where the nipple is at the level of the inframammary fold.
In daily life, breast ptosis (sagging) is relatively common. Once it occurs, it can affect the overall aesthetic appearance. What exactly is breast ptosis?
What Is Breast Ptosis?
Breast ptosis occurs when glandular and connective tissues within the breast undergo hyperplasia, causing enlargement followed by shrinkage. The stretched skin and suspensory ligaments lose elasticity and fail to retract under the force of gravity, resulting in drooping breasts that appear baggy. Depending on the severity, breast ptosis is classified into three degrees: Degree I: Mild ptosis, where the nipple lies at the level of the inframammary fold.
The nipple is located below the inframammary fold but above the lowest point of the breast. In more advanced cases, the nipple sits at the lowest point of the breast. Breast ptosis is a physiological condition commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly women after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Normally, the inframammary fold—the crease where the breast meets the chest wall—should be the lowest point of the breast. When a patient’s nipple reaches or falls below this fold, ptosis is diagnosed. Women often experience breast sagging after pregnancy and lactation. Following breast enlargement during pregnancy and nursing, once breastfeeding stops, the breasts may shrink significantly, sometimes leading to glandular atrophy and fat accumulation. The skin and glandular tissues become loose, which can contribute to breast ptosis. We hope this information helps you. Wishing you good health and happiness!
