Periareolar breast lift, is that an option for me?

Thank you for your pictures and questions. If you are interested in a less droopy breast, a decreased areolar size, a smaller breast size, and better overall symmetry, then a breast lift would be a great option for you. Unfortunately, we as surgeons are not magic and we cannot make all those things happen without leaving scars behind. Based on your pictures, I do not think you would be a good candidate for a periareolar lift only as this would not provide enough of a lift to get you a good result. I think you would be best served with a full pattern (anchor-type) lift and scar. After significant time, the scars from this type of surgery are quite good. Best to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area for an exam and consultation and to discuss your options. Best of luck!

Thank you for your question and photos. There are several different incisions that can be used for a breast lift. There is periareolar, vertical, and anchor. When greater amounts of lifting is required vertical and anchor incisions are used. An anchor lift (full lift) gives the most lifting of the nipple and removes skin in the vertical and horizontal directions. Given the amount of sagging of your breasts, you will obtain the most benefit from a full breast lift. A periareolar lift wouldn't work well for you. 

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  With that
being said, based on your photographs, the best shape and contour could be
achieved with a wise pattern breast lift.  I do not ever
recommend a periareolar or Bennelli lift.  Over time, the areola tends to enlarge with a
thickened scar.  The other even worse problem is that it flattens out the
shape of the anterior breast over time.  A wise pattern lift can result in a very nice shape if good technique is
used.  Make
sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients
who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their
results.   The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are
comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified
board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

It definitely would require an incision around the areola as part of the procedure to reduce the size.  The other portions of the breast can be treated and various options for the scar can be evaluated to help give you the best shape.  Visit the Smart Beauty Guide for more information and surgeons in your area.

I'm afraid that a periareolar breast lift is unrealistic for you.  It would narrow your areolae significantly but only lift your nipples a small amount and not improve your asymmetry.  I'd recommend for patients who have a similar appearance that they consider a full mastopexy. The video above discusses the differences between periareolar and full uplifts. Best wishes,

Jon A Perlman MD FACS 



Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 



Extreme Makeover Surgeon ABC TV



Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016 



Beverly Hills, Ca 

Unfortunately, you are not a candidate for a periareolar lift as there is too much sagging in the photo for that minor lift to correct. But a beautifully performed full lift can give you a very nice shape and tone, and better symmetry.