Do All Breast Lifts Result In Scars?

Question

I'm considering a breast lift and augmentation and I'm wondering if all breast lifts leave a vertical scar? This is a concern of mine. If so, are there any other methods that don't have obvious scarring? Thank you.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

A true breast lift always requires removing and reshaping skin, so it will leave scars. The question is not whether there will be scars, but which scar pattern is needed for the amount of lift and reshaping you need.

For very mild nipple elevation, a periareolar/donut lift may keep the scar around the areola only, but it is limited and can flatten the breast or widen the areola if used for too much lifting. A vertical/lollipop lift adds a scar from the areola to the fold and is much better for moderate lifting and shape control. An anchor/Wise-pattern lift adds a scar in the breast fold and is used when there is more loose skin. Implants can add volume, but they do not replace a lift when the nipple and skin envelope need repositioning. Good technique and scar care usually make scars fade significantly over 12-18 months, but choosing too small a scar pattern can lead to a worse shape.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Yes there are scars, but what if you don't really need the lift? I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Mildly Sagging Breasts: If your breasts are mildly droopy, a saline or silicone gel implant placed behind the pectoral muscle might help create the illusion of perkiness. That’s because as the implant fills out the top of the breast, it also fills out the bottom, making it look as if the nipple has moved higher. It hasn’t. You can always get a lift later if you feel you are not perky enough when fully settled and healed. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

There is a technique known as a benelli periareolar lift, which uses a scar around the areola to gather up and lift the surrounding skin. The downside is the possible stretching and dilation of the areola. The technique requires as permanent suture to prevent the the stretching of the areola. If this suture fails, the areola may dilated and result in an undesirable post lift appearance.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. That is a very common concern with this surgery so you are not alone. To really get a lift of your breast tissue with typically implement either a vertical lift (lolipop) or sometimes depending on the degree of breast ptosis or sagging we will recommend a horizontal and vertical lift (anchor scar). The scars are not the most aesthetic in appearance in the first year. After that they tend to fade. There are some treatments for lighter scars including medical tattooing filling in pigment where it lacks or depending on how your scars heal there can be options. Speak to your plastic surgeon about your concerns. Check out our before and after gallery for a better idea.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear maria254,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

A breast lift almost always moves the nipple-areola higher which requires skin removal, so that is the minimal scar. This is a donut or Benelli lift, and can only lift a small amount without flattening the breast. The vertical/lollipop lift is more common because it improves shape and projection. It will also depend to a degree on the size of the implants.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

All breast lifts require scars but the most unattractive scar is the vertical scar. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. Later, fat transfers or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

There is something called a donut lift where the incisions are around the areolae. Unfortunately it has its own problems. The good news is that the vertical scar usually heals very well

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Breast lifts, also known as mastopexy, generally do result in some degree of scarring. The extent and visibility of the scars depend on several factors, including the surgical technique used, the patient's skin type, and their healing process. Here are some key points to consider:
Types of Scars from Breast Lifts
1.	Periareolar Scar:
o	This scar encircles the areola and is typically used in a "doughnut" or "Benelli" lift. It's one of the least visible scars since it's confined to the pigmented area around the nipple.
2.	Lollipop Scar:
o	Also known as a vertical scar, this starts around the areola and extends downward to the breast crease. It is common in moderate breast lift procedures.
3.	Anchor Scar:
o	This is the most extensive type, combining the periareolar and vertical scars with an additional horizontal scar along the breast crease. It's used in cases requiring significant reshaping.
Factors Influencing Scarring
•	Surgical Technique: The method chosen by the plastic surgeon can influence the size and location of scars.
•	Patient's Skin Type: Some skin types are more prone to noticeable scarring. Darker skin tones may develop more prominent scars, while lighter skin tones might scar less visibly.
•	Post-Operative Care: Proper care, including following your plastic surgeon's instructions, can minimize scar appearance. Treatments like silicone sheets, gels, and scar massage can also help.
•	Healing Process: Individual healing varies. Some people naturally heal with more noticeable scars than others.
Scar Management
While all breast lifts will result in some degree of scarring, there are several ways to manage and minimize them:
•	Follow Surgeon's Instructions: Adhering to post-operative care instructions is crucial.
•	Use of Scar Treatments: Silicone sheets or gels can help reduce scar visibility.
•	Avoid Sun Exposure: Protecting scars from the sun helps prevent them from becoming darker and more noticeable.
•	Consider Laser Treatments: Post-healing, laser treatments can help reduce scar appearance.
Scarring is an inevitable part of any breast lift surgery, but with proper care and advanced surgical techniques, these scars can be minimized and become less noticeable over time. Always discuss with your plastic surgeon about the best techniques and post-operative care for your specific needs and concerns.

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Yes, breast lift surgery typically involves incisions, which can result in scars. The extent and visibility of the scars can vary depending on the surgical technique used and an individual’s healing process. However, experienced surgeons work to minimize scarring and often place incisions in inconspicuous areas to make the scars less noticeable over time. It’s important to discuss the potential scarring with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure to understand what to expect and how to care for the incisions post-surgery.

Do All Breast Lifts Result In Scars?

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