Breast Lift: Q&A

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Breast Lift with Vertical Scar or L-shaped Scar?

I had a consultation with two doctors today and I was given different options for my breast lift. One doctor would do something like the traditional anchor scar, but rather than the inverted "T" incision, he would do something like an "L" along the lateral side. The other doctor suggests a more "modern" style with just a vertical scar, that developed by Dr. Elizabeth Hall-Findlay. I am a bit nervous about this second option because the doctor explained that that is puckering at scar for the first 3-6 months, but that it eventually stretches and looks fine. Thoughts on this?

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15 Doctor Answers | Asked by thaianonymous in thailand

Doctor Answers (15)
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Breast augmentation and mastopexy

Based on experience, I would suggest that your 1st concern should be obtaining the best results possible (scarring concerns should be secondary). Most patients undergoing this procedure will accept scarring as long as their overall goals in regards to size, shape, contour and symmetry are met. In other words, if you select your surgeon based on the offer of a “limited scar” procedure you may be disappointed with the results. Also, be careful about... more

Focus less on technique and more on quality...

Hi there- My colleagues have all done a very good job explaining the options to you... I would add, however, that your best interests will be best served by spending less energy and time thinking about the details of the operation your surgeon will perform, and more time and energy on the surgeon himself... Do you like the surgeon you think you will choose? Where did he go to school? Where did he do his training? Is he certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery? Where will more

Different breasts may require different approaches

Unfortunately, your breasts are very different and each presents its own problems. You could have different types of mastopexy's on each side to try and equalize the shapes and different sized implants for size equalization. You breasts require that you see a plastic surgeon with a large experience!

Breast Lift scars depend on how much lift

There are different techniques in mastopexy (breast lift) and they vary with the amount of lift required and by surgeon. No breast lift technique can be applied to all breasts and considering you have considerable asymmetry it may be difficult to predict how long/many scars you may have. It looks like you may have a form of lower pole constriction causing a high fold and early ptosis. Both techniques described will likely work just as long as they treat the underlying problem. I would... more

Mastopexy scars can vary

Different surgeons can achieve beautiful results with different scars, so I recommend not getting hung up on the scars. Not all vertical mastopexy techniques create puckering post op. Also, if the length of the vertical segment is going to be too long, then it makes sense to extend it into an "L" or inverted "T" scar. In your case, there is a significant difference between your breasts. Each will require a different treatment, and this may result in different scars. ... more

Lift options

You have a complex presentation. either may or may not be fine depending on the surgeon. You have a wide inter-mammary distance. Personally, I would at least consider a traditional mastopexy, and likely breast implants to fill in the cleavage area. Possibly two procedures

Hall-Findlay IS the Answer

The two options offered you differ not only in their scars but most importantly in HOW the breast is shaped and lifted and in the DURABILITY of the lift. The anchor / inverted T / keyhole / Weiss pattern breast procedures lift breasts by reducing the skin envelope. As a result, like everything else which depends on long-term skin integrity, the results do not last long. Skin stretches and sags and so will these breasts. Every single one of them. The Hall-Findlay procedure depends primarily... more

Vertical scar best for breat lift.

Hi. When doing breast lifts in New York City, we always use the vertical lollipop scar. And the short scar is not even the main advantage of this approach. It is great because the breasts are shaped and lifted INTERNALLY, without relying on skin tension, and so you get good long term shape. Most breast lifts are done by tightening the skin envelope. But skin stretches, and the lift doesn't last.

Breast lift procedures

I use a technqiue of vertical lifting a little different than Betsy's. An "L" is perfrectly oK as well as the shape comes out nicely. All lifts require some time for thebreasts and scars to settle

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Scar patterns in Breast Lift

There are many options for the scar in breast lifts. Which method one uses depends on what your anatomy is and the experience of the surgeon. With a vertical lift (like the Hall-Findlay) there is a chance that a sub-mammary “T” will be needed, either at the time of surgery or later, depending on whether the puckering settles out or not. I, like everyone, like to use as small a scar as possible, but frequently find that, in certain individuals, I have to use a longer one. My... more

Incision patterns for breast lift

There are trade-offs when the incisions are shortened. But there are also advantages. Your surgeon can describe and even demonstrate to you the progressive incisions that are necessary to achieve your results. Much of what is required will depend on what you are willing to accept as your end results. The vast majority of lifts with your general shape and size breasts are performed using the vertical or lollipop incision. Patients general accept the puckering that might occur because it... more

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

4 reviews

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Breast lift options

You are starting with a large amount of asymmetry so it will be a challenge for your surgeon regardless of technique used, but it's important to know that it's not just about the incisions on the skin but also what is done with the breast tissue in order to reshape it and give you the best final shape. I think your surgeon will probably need to use the standard anchor or T-shaped incisions on both breasts to get the best result-- without it, I think you will be left with a lot of... more

Breast lift with vertical scar or L-shaped scar.

Thanks for posting your photos. Most do not understand how important seeing even an average photo can help us answer your inquiries. So I agree with the previous posters. Use the anchor scar lift. From MIAMI dr. B

Breast lift options

You have a starting point that is not very well suited for a home run result. In my opinion, a central pedicle lift with a "T" incision would give the best shape. The crease scar in your case would not be full length. The wide space in the middle will remain and your smaller breast lock you in size wise unless you have implants also.

Vertical, L or inverted T scar for breast lift

You want the best results in size and shape regardless of what shape the scar will be. Although there is more scarring with the anchor shape, it can give the best end results in shape and symmetry. Ask your surgeon to see a range of photos on patients with the best examples as well as those that did not turn out so good. It will give you an idea of the range. Most of my patients have been very pleased with the full mastopexy (inverted T or anchor) scars and very few need revision. ... more