Why does the areola on African American women look significantly darker and unnatural after a breast lift (mastopexy)?

Question

Hello, I know I am not the only one who noticed (this question was asked on here before without an answer), but the areolas after a mastopexy on black women are significantly darker, and super fake/weird looking. The areolas on white women on the other hand, are faded on the edges, and still looks natural after healing. Is there a way to avoid this weird look for us darker women?

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well.. based in your question its difficult evaluate you if the case dont have a picture, my recommendation is get  a consultation in person with a plastic surgeon to discuss all about theme.

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

It appears darker because the areola skin is not stretched out any longer.    I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the good question.
There are many factors involved when it comes to the exact "scarring" you see on different photographs. Sometimes, there is a difference because every plastic surgeon may have a different approach to placement of incision lines and exactly how the operation is performed. On the other hand, scars may differ because of different patient body types and because patients scar differently. Again, there are many variables involved.
Always best to communicate your goals, concerns, and questions directly with your (carefully selected) plastic surgeon.
Best wishes.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The
technique I use is The Bellesoma Method. 
This is based on a central mound, which provides better blood supply to
the nipple then the pedicle techniques.  Vertical
scars used in the lollipop and anchor techniques place tension on the areolas, cause
unnatural distortion and ischemia.  The
Bellesoma Method avoids vertical scars, nipple sensation and the ability to
breast feed are maintained.  Your breast tissue
is reshaped creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevated higher on
the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  The areolas do not look unnatural or
darkened.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear scifimania,it can be caused by scar tissue. For scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Why does the areola on African American women look significantly darker and unnatural after a breast lift (mastopexy)?

Answers (8)

Answer: Areola discoloration

Answer: Areola discoloration

Answer: Breast lift incision

Answer: Breast lift incision

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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Why does the areola on African American women look significantly darker and unnatural after a breast lift (mastopexy)?

Answers (8)

Answer: Areola discoloration

Answer: Areola discoloration

Answer: Breast lift incision

Answer: Breast lift incision

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.