Breast lift or breast reduction? (Photo)

Dear Blah424,
it depends on your goals. If you want smaller breasts, then breast reduction is the right choice. Breast lift will lift the breasts. 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

Hi BLAH424, thank you for your question regarding whether you need a breast lift or breast reduction. Thank you for your history and your pictures.
In your history, you mentioned that you would like to be a full C, while you are currently a DD. To go from a DD to a C, you need a breast reduction. A breast lift (mastopexy) only lifts the breast and does not change your breast cup size. Your breast stays the same size with a breast lift. Therefore, you need a breast reduction. During your breast reduction, I would suggest bilateral areola reduction and an anchor breast reduction pattern. The anchor breast reduction will achieve your best results.

If you just undergo a breast lift with an anchor incision, the breast will be lifted, but you will still remain a DD. During a breast lift, usually only about a tablespoon of breast skin is removed from each breast. Good luck. I hope I’ve answered your question regarding whether you need a breast lift or a breast reduction.


Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon