Table of contents

• The Medical Procedure: Breast Lift (Mastopexy) in Detail
• Best Clinics in Korea for Ptotic Breasts
• Navigating Medical Tourism in South Korea
• Financial Analysis: Costs and Value for Medical Tourists
• Patient-Reported Outcomes and Lived Experiences
• Conclusions
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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Breast ptosis is a common condition where the nipple drops below the inframammary fold (IMF)—the natural crease beneath the breast—creating a saggy or drooping look. Most often, this happens due to natural changes like aging, large breast size (macromastia), weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or hormonal shifts. As the skin loses its elasticity and supporting tissues stretch over time, the breast and nipple settle lower. Although not a disease, breast ptosis can cause both physical discomfort (such as chafing) and take a toll on emotional well-being and confidence.

Plastic surgeons use the Regnault classification system to gauge the severity of breast ptosis. This system bases its grading on where the nipple sits compared to the IMF and the breast’s lowest curve. Understanding this classification helps patients and surgeons agree on the right surgical plan—especially since more severe ptosis (like Grade III) calls for more advanced techniques.

Here’s how the Regnault classification breaks down:

Grade	Nipple Position relative to IMF	Nipple Position relative to Breast Contour
Grade 1 (Mild)	At the level of the IMF	Not below the IMF, but slight sagging below the crease
Grade 2 (Moderate)	Below the level of the IMF	Not the most dependent part of the breast
Grade 3 (Severe)	Below the level of the IMF	The most dependent part of the breast, often pointing downward

Etiology and Common Pseudonyms

Several factors contribute to breast ptosis. As collagen and elastin break down with age, skin naturally loses its bounce, and gravity accelerates sagging, especially in larger breasts. Weight changes, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can also stretch the skin and weaken supportive ligaments, leaving extra skin behind once the breast’s internal volume drops.

It’s crucial to distinguish true breast ptosis from pseudoptosis (sometimes called glandular ptosis). In pseudoptosis, the nipple stays even with or above the IMF, but the breast tissue below sags, leading to a loss of upper fullness. While laypeople might describe any dropping as “saggy breasts,” medical professionals differentiate because treatment approaches differ. Grade III ptosis usually requires mastopexy to lift and reposition the breast, whereas pseudoptosis can sometimes be addressed with breast augmentation alone. This difference highlights the importance of professional assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

The Medical Procedure: Breast Lift (Mastopexy) in Detail

Surgical Principles and Goals of Mastopexy

A breast lift, called mastopexy, is a surgical way to treat breast ptosis. Instead of making breasts larger, the surgery repositions the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) higher on the chest, reshapes breast tissue, and removes extra skin to restore a firmer, uplifted shape.

Key aims of mastopexy include:

• Repositioning the NAC higher on the breast for a more natural appearance.
• Reshaping and tightening breast tissue to enhance projection and firmness.
• Removing excess skin to create a tighter, supportive skin envelope.

Mastopexy can be performed on its own or combined with breast augmentation if extra volume is wanted.

Surgical Techniques for Severe Ptosis (Grade III)

The extent of breast ptosis determines which mastopexy method best suits the patient. Grade III ptosis, marked by pronounced nipple descent and skin redundancy, requires more comprehensive approaches.

The Inverted-T (Anchor) Mastopexy

This gold-standard technique is typically recommended for severe ptosis. It uses three incisions: around the areola, a vertical line from areola to IMF, and a horizontal line along the IMF. Surgeons gain optimal access, allowing substantial skin and tissue removal and extensive reshaping. Results are long-lasting, but the “anchor” scar is unavoidable (though it often softens and fades over 1–2 years).

The Vertical (Lollipop) Mastopexy

This technique suits moderate to severe ptosis and uses fewer incisions: just around the areola and vertically from areola to IMF (like a “lollipop”). The underlying glandular tissue is reshaped for a conical contour and the NAC repositioned. The vertical lift typically features less scarring than the anchor version, though results may be slightly less dramatic.

For a side-by-side look:

Technique	Incision Pattern	Primary Indication	Lift Efficacy	Scarring
Inverted-T (Anchor)	Around areola, vertically to IMF, and horizontally along IMF	Severe ptosis, large breasts, or with reduction	Most significant, provides greatest long-term support	Permanent, extensive anchor-shaped scar
Vertical (Lollipop)	Around areola and vertically down to IMF	Moderate to severe ptosis	Significant, can provide a good lift without the horizontal scar	Permanent, but less extensive, resembling a lollipop

Pre- and Post-operative Care

The breast lift journey begins with a consultation, where the surgeon reviews your history, marks the breasts, and takes photos. Pre-surgical testing and, sometimes, a mammogram are essential. Smokers are required to quit to reduce risks and promote healing.

Surgery generally takes 2–3 hours under general anesthesia. Most patients can go home the same day, and recovery involves mild pain, swelling, and bruising for about two weeks, managed by medication. Surgical support bras ease recovery, and activities such as lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks. Patients are asked to sleep on their backs to avoid stressing incisions.

Potential Risks and Surgical Considerations

All surgeries include some risks. Scarring is expected—its extent depends on technique and fades with time. Temporary or life-long changes in sensation (nipple or breast) can happen, with most feeling returning over weeks as nerves heal. Rarely, blood supply may be compromised, risking part or all of the nipple/areola. A breast lift can slightly reduce a woman's ability to breastfeed.

Patients should have realistic expectations: while mastopexy offers dramatic, gratifying results, the effects of aging or weight changes can eventually cause some sagging to return. However, this recurrence is generally less severe post-surgery.

Best Clinics in Korea for Ptotic Breasts

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for ptotic breasts:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul; four-floor facility guiding patients from consultation to surgery and post-operative care; emphasizes patient safety and satisfaction through meticulous care, strong doctor–patient communication, and a team culture grounded in academic research and ongoing participation in domestic and international medical symposiums.	Breast augmentation
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Specialized aesthetic clinic in Korea offering sincere, precise, and individualized treatment; dedicated Breast Center; team-led approach with an experienced female plastic surgeon; tailored solutions for ptotic breasts through advanced breast lift, breast reduction, and nipple correction techniques; careful planning and thorough aftercare for natural-looking, lasting results.	Breast Lift (Saggy Breast Surgery), Breast Reduction, and Nipple Correction
Banobagi Plastic Surgery	Well-known and trusted plastic surgery brand established in 2000; renovated in 2008; offers dedicated breast surgery services within a large-scale clinic system that includes a 6-story main building (total floor area of 600 pyeong) and a 5-story annex, along with multiple specialized centers and professional medical equipment; emphasizes 1:1 customized treatment and a patient-first approach, avoiding unnecessary or excessive surgeries.	1:1 customized treatment and dedicated breast surgery services

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, offers a world-class environment for patients seeking solutions for ptotic (sagging) breasts, supported by a four-floor facility designed to guide patients from consultation to surgery and post-operative care. The clinic emphasizes patient safety and satisfaction through meticulous care, strong doctor–patient communication, and a team culture grounded in academic research and ongoing participation in domestic and international medical symposiums.

For breast concerns related to shape, volume, and sagging, Dr. Lee stands out as a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation, with experience at leading hospitals nationwide, including serving as a Surgery Specialist at Seoul National University Hospital. Active in major Korean plastic surgery societies, she focuses on achieving natural-looking, long-lasting outcomes aligned with each patient’s body and goals. Alongside Dr. Lee, the clinic’s leadership includes internationally recognized surgeons such as Dr. Kim and Dr. Jeong, known for their educational contributions and research-driven approach, reflecting THE PLUS’s broader commitment to high standards and continual advancement in plastic surgery.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a specialized aesthetic clinic in Korea dedicated to sincere, precise, and individualized treatment, offering patients more than a single procedure by guiding them through a comprehensive transformation journey. With a dedicated Breast Center and a team-led approach that includes an experienced female plastic surgeon, the clinic delivers tailored solutions for ptotic (sagging) breasts through advanced breast lift, breast reduction, and nipple correction techniques—supported by careful planning and thorough aftercare designed to help patients achieve natural-looking, lasting results.

• Specialized Breast Center focused on advanced breast procedures, including Breast Reduction, Breast Lift (Saggy Breast Surgery), and Nipple Correction for concerns commonly associated with ptotic breasts.
• Expertise of Dr. Cho, widely recognized for breast surgery, backed by ongoing study and published research in the field.
• Capability with complex and severe ptosis cases, including significant breast reduction procedures that many clinics are not equipped to perform.
• Comprehensive aftercare system emphasized for stable recovery and long-term, natural results—an essential factor in breast lift outcomes.
• Individualized surgical planning that prioritizes each patient’s body type, degree of sagging, skin quality, and aesthetic goals rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Broad surgical infrastructure and specialized medical team support, allowing coordinated care when ptotic breasts coexist with other body or aesthetic concerns.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Banobagi Plastic Surgery

Banobagi Plastic Surgery is a well-known and trusted plastic surgery brand in Korea, first established in February 2000 by four plastic surgery specialists from Seoul National University Hospital. Built on an artisan spirit for beauty, Banobagi aims to be a hospital that patients love and recommend, recognized for warm medical philosophy and strong surgical skill. On October 7, 2008, the entire Banobagi building was renovated into a modern medical environment, strengthening its position as a leading plastic surgery space in Korea.

For patients seeking care for ptotic breasts, Banobagi offers dedicated breast surgery services within a large-scale clinic system that includes a 6-story main building (total floor area of 600 pyeong) and a 5-story annex, along with multiple specialized centers and professional medical equipment. Banobagi emphasizes 1:1 customized treatment and a patient-first approach, strictly avoiding unnecessary or excessive surgeries for profit and treating each patient with the care of family—values that have supported its growth over more than 20 years.

Find more about this clinic here: Banobagi Plastic Surgery Website

Navigating Medical Tourism in South Korea

The Patient Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide for the Medical Tourist

South Korea is a global center for plastic surgery, drawing patients from around the world. Here’s how a typical medical tourism journey unfolds:

• Initial Research and Online Consultation: Start by researching clinics and booking a virtual consult for an initial assessment and quote (takes 2–4 weeks).
• Securing a Visa and Booking Travel: After settling on a plan, check visa requirements and arrange a 10–14 day trip to allow time for surgery and recovery.
• Onsite Evaluation and Procedure Day: Arrive in Korea for an in-person pre-surgical consult, finalize plans, and undergo your mastopexy.
• Recovery Period in Korea: Recover in-country for 10–14 days, attending follow-ups and wound checks, then receive surgery notes and aftercare instructions.
• Discharge and Return Home: Get medical clearance, collect receipts, and return home to continue healing according to your doctor’s advice.

Key Considerations for International Patients

Advisors should emphasize credential checks. Patients should seek clinics registered with the Korean Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI) and ensure their surgeons are board-certified by the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons (KSPRS). Clinics with Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation offer assurance of high-quality standards.

Many Korean clinics have multilingual coordinators, English documentation, and video-based follow-up support, making communication seamless. Patients should confirm these services before traveling.

Financial transparency is also essential. Many clinics bundle costs (including pre-tests, anesthesia, car transfers, medications, and even hotel stays) into “all-inclusive” packages. Patients are less likely to encounter hidden fees, but should still request detailed breakdowns of package inclusions.

Financial Analysis: Costs and Value for Medical Tourists

The Cost of Breast Lift in South Korea

Breast lift pricing in South Korea varies substantially due to differences in clinic prestige, surgeon expertise, and procedure details. The average is about $11,512; most sources quote $4,000–$8,000, with a full range from $582 to $21,000. Cheaper rates reflect simpler lifts, unsuited for Grade III ptosis. Complex procedures like an Anchor lift, usually needed for severe cases, cost more, especially at top clinics in neighborhoods like Gangnam. When combined with augmentation, prices increase further.

Comparative Global Pricing for Mastopexy

Cost savings motivate many to choose Korea: procedures can be 40–75% cheaper than Western counterparts while maintaining high standards. Here’s how prices compare:

Country	Average Price Range (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$4,000 - $8,000	Prices vary by clinic and technique complexity. Packages often include multiple services.
United States	$8,000 - $15,000	Median price is roughly $9,122; rates vary widely by location.
Turkey	$2,700 - $4,900	Substantial savings, international clinics, package deals offered.
Mexico	$3,500 - $6,200	Close to the U.S., cost-effective, English-speaking providers.
Thailand	$2,500 - $5,000	Experienced surgeons, excellent tourism services.

Thus, South Korea balances competitive pricing with a world-class plastic surgery reputation.

Factors Influencing Cost and Package Inclusions

Breast lift costs aren’t fixed—several factors influence the total. The surgeon’s fee (higher for seasoned surgeons), the surgical technique’s complexity (Anchor lifts cost notably more), anesthesia, operating facility fees, and extras like tests or garments all add up.

“All-inclusive” packages are now common. In addition to the core surgery, packages may include accommodation, transportation, interpreter services, and follow-up appointments. While tempting, patients should always request a comprehensive quote to see exactly what the upfront price covers.

Patient-Reported Outcomes and Lived Experiences

The Psychological and Physical Impact

Mastopexy is praised by patients not just for how it looks, but for how it makes them feel. Many describe newfound self-confidence and comfort, enjoying activities and clothes they once avoided. For those with severe ptosis, physical benefits include lighter-feeling breasts and relief from chafing or struggling to find supportive bras. The combined psychological and physical boost often makes the procedure “life-changing.”

Success Stories and Testimonials

Both clinical reports and real patient stories confirm that mastopexy for severe breast ptosis offers dramatic, lasting results. Many patients with Grade III ptosis see a pronounced, youthful transformation—some remain satisfied for more than two decades. Others celebrate their new ability to feel at ease in swimwear or embrace their bodies after years of insecurity. Aggregated satisfaction ratings show that up to 95% of patients would recommend the surgery.

Realistic Expectations: Scars, Sensation, and Longevity

Advisors must offer honest guidance. Anchor and vertical mastopexy techniques leave permanent scars, though they fade over time. Some patients opt for tattoos to disguise scars and celebrate their transformation. Sensation changes in the nipple or breasts are also possible, often temporary. Mastopexy can’t entirely stop future sagging due to gravity or life events, but it delivers durable, rewarding results that most patients consider well worth the investment.

Conclusions

Severe breast ptosis (Grade III) calls for a comprehensive, expertly planned mastopexy—typically the Inverted-T (Anchor) or Vertical (Lollipop) technique. While South Korea offers lower costs and innovative, package-based services, patients should expect higher prices for complex cases and plan accordingly. Ultimately, breast lift surgery delivers significant physical and emotional benefits, though patients should be prepared for trade-offs like scarring and the reality that no result is permanent. Informed decisions, grounded expectations, and support from experienced professionals will ensure the best outcomes for medical tourists.

References

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