Left over areola on scar after breast lift??

Question

I am having a breast lift. PS told me that in order to avoid having the bottom of my breasts "flat" instead of rounded, incisions will go thru my areola and then bring skin together. He told me that result may be that see some areola tissue along resulting scar. I have seen many photos of women who had large areolas prior to surgery and have not seen one post-op picture where there was remaining areola skin around resulting scar. I am very nervous and confused.

Steven J. Smith, MD · Answer

There are many different techniques and philosophies used for breast lift surgery. Even with large areolae, a technique can be performed that removes even large areola. It all depends on the geometry and type of incisions planned.There is certainly nothing wrong with a two staged procedure, however, it does require an additional surgery and the accompanying cost and recovery.

Aras Tijunelis, MD · Answer

Yes, unfortunately, a VERY wide areola might get involved in the vertical closure.  This is very uncommon and usually only in exteremly large areola.  Usually only the faintest portion of the areola are involved.  If this does occur, it can usually be cut out later when swelling goes down.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

With a vertical lift it is possible that if the areola is very large it can run into the lift pattern and some could be "left" along the closure. We suppose it might be best to plan a pattern where this does not happen, but your surgeon might be correct. A second opinion might clear things up.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes sometimes some areola skin can be left after a breast lift or reduction.  This is usually a temporary situation and it can be removed after a year.  It usually is not very obvious but that depends on nature of pigmentation.   This is a valid suggestion your doctor has made.   My Best,  Dr C

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Left over areola on scar after breast lift??

Answers (4)

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