Would an areola reduction / donut lift help achieve a small, natural lift or am I at risk of scarring and stretching? (photos)

Question

Hi. I've been wanting an areola reduction to create a more even and proportional appearance. Ca 1 - 1.5 cm on my left boob and 0,5 - 1 cm on my right boob. I don’t wish to have super sexy lifted boobs, just my own in a better version with a small natural lift from the reduction. But as reading, I realise areola reduction is basically a donut lift, and doctors here warn against it because it may cause severe scarring and stretching. Would I be an okay candidate or am I at risk?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Vega637,
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity. 
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Based on the submitted photos you aren't a good candidate for the donut/periareolar mastopexy.  This would not give you enough improvement in shape, would not really change the nipple position significantly, and could stretch over time.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified palstic surgeon near you to explore your options.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

You are not a donut lift candidate. Your breasts are too ptotic and a donut lift will ruin the possibility of getting a truly aesthetically pleasing result. The scars from a formal mastopexy on you would be fine and white, and the proper position of the nipples would be impossible otherwise.

Benjamin Baker, BMBS MBA FRCS(Plast) · Answer

A periareolar mastopexy (donut uplift procedure) will facilitate areola reduction and improved symmetry, but it will not adjust the position of the breast on the chest wall - i.e. it will adjust the skin but not the underlying gland. The scar is usually well hidden around the areola. There are surgical techniques that can be used to minimise the risk of stretching and disguise the scars.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The vertical lift would do much better for you and position the breasts in the proper location. With the breasts lifted, your areolar reduction will be more successful since breast tissue won't be pulling on them. You are too saggy for the doughnut lift.

Would an areola reduction / donut lift help achieve a small, natural lift or am I at risk of scarring and stretching? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy (uplift)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy (uplift)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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Everything you need to know about Areola Reduction Surgery

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Would an areola reduction / donut lift help achieve a small, natural lift or am I at risk of scarring and stretching? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy (uplift)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy (uplift)

Answer: Breasts

Answer: Breasts

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Areola Reduction Surgery

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