As an African American I'm terrified of bad scarring. Is it possible to achieve my desired look with minimal scarring? (photos)

I understand your fear of poor scarring. I would recommend that you go only for breast augmentation and not for the breast lift due to scar unpredictability. If you are satisfied with the outcome than there is no need for a breast lift. You can always get a lift later if you feel that you are not perky enough when you have completely healed and recovered. However, consultation and examination with a board certified plastic surgeon is recommended to further discuss your best options and expectations.

From the photos it appears you would be a good candidate for a breast augmentation with a lift. I encourage you to visit with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation. There are many options that are available to promote favorable scarring and some can be started soon after surgery. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Thank you for your question. Considering your breast ptosis condition and areolar size, crescent mastopexy is not likely to be suitable. I recommend periareolar (donut) mastopexy with implant augmentation. Scars remain around the areola after surgery. Although periareolar incision can be used for implant insertion, the recent trend is to use inframammary incision (under breasts) to reduce infection rate and capsular contracture rate. Surgery may not achieve the exact desired breast shape; it is expected to significantly improve the current breast shape.