Is there a procedure that could be done to avoid lollypop/anchor kind of scar?

Question

I am 36 years old, 5'5", currently 130lb. Just had my 3d child 15 month ago. Ready for mommy make over or at least breast reduction. My perfectly shaped C transitioned into not so pretty DD after all my kids and age.. I am prone to form colloid scars.. so I was wondering if there is a procedure that could be done to avoid lollypop/ancor kind of scar. Also the end goal is to have nicely shaped C (possibly with implants to keep the shape?). Is this realistic?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @kiki1414 thank you for your question there are different ways to approach the scar in breast reduction, it really depends. for example I always do a periareolar incision when when we make a breast reduction from prosthesis change, to rearrange the prosthesis pocket or the plane in which the prosthesis is placed to have the best esthetic result.The other scar that I always do is the L-shaped scar. That is the one I always do, because the L-shaped scar allows the patient to have the cleavage area free of scars. I have been performing the technique for 19 years and it is a technique that works perfectly in breast reduction.I never use the anchor scar because for me the best aesthetic result if from the L shape scar. Those are the different kind of scars in breast reduction surgery. Best Regards!

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! I don't think that there is anything I would recommend that would avoid scars. Your breast have droop that should be addressed with a breast lift or breast reduction (depending on your goals). Good luck!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I would be interested in seeing the scars you say are keloids. They are probably not true keloids in which case you could expect the scars from the lift to heal nicely.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear kiki1414,
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. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Michelle Copeland, MD, DMD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos! Large breasts may not only interfere with your physical ability to function in daily activities but can be emotionally burdensome as well. From what you describe you are a candidate for a breast reduction and lift. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and reshapes the contour of the breasts so that they are smaller and perkier. It is possible to do a breast reduction and lift with a minimal scar technique and can also be done as an outpatient procedure under twilight sedation. It's important to be sure expectations are realistic and you have an understanding of the commitment needed for the healing process. Make sure that you understand the nature of your surgery, the recovery process, and that you feel comfortable and emotionally ready to make these changes to your body. 
 
I suggest making an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

Unfortunately there is no way to have a fuller, higher breast without the anchor type scar. You have good volume and a nice shape so I would suggest to do a small reduction and forgo the implant. Your breasts are, in my opinion, too wide for a breast implant and you would be unsatisfied with the look of an implant. Further, implants do not keep the breast up but rather actually add more weight and make it harder for your breast to stay up. You have to have strong tissue to support an implant and it looks as if your tissue is a little weaker so for all of those reasons I would not suggest using an implant and just have a small reduction. the scar heals well and should not deter you from having the surgery if you want your breasts smaller and higher.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Dear Kiki,
Unfortunately, You would be best served with either the lollipop or anchor lift.  The periareolar lift would not tighten your skin enough.
Dr. T

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

In the long run, the scars generally fade very well and if you get a great shape, they will become a non-issue for most patients. Unfortunately, there is nothing I know that will substitute for an anchor scar breast lift and very slight reduction to get the tone back in your breasts and lift the nipples back up. You don't need implants because they will make you bigger and don't help tp retain shape. 
Check the photos on my website for examples and be very careful where you go as breast lifts are a true art and no 2 surgeons are alike in their results.