Is there a way to do a Breast Lift without removing the nipple?

Question

Is there a way to do a breast lift without removing the nipple? Its really only thing stopping me, Not concerned with scarring above breast if that's what is necessary.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs. However, it is very rare to need to remove the nipples to do a breast lift. 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.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Typically, the nipple is not removed during surgery. The incisions during an anchor lift, made around the nipple, vertically down to the breast fold, and horizontally within the breast fold, allow for tissue to be removed and repositioned. However, the nipple is generally not removed from the body and then reattached. it is simply repositioned.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

A common misperception is that the nipple is removed and then seen back in place. The nipple is actually just shifted up while still maintaining most of its attachments. You would still have a scar around the areola.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear allieapa,
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

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person evaluation with a plastic surgeon to be measured and discuss your goals. 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, if desired. 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The nipple is not actually cut off the breast for a lift, but stays attached to the breast. Skin is opened around the nipple so the breast mound can be repositioned.  I hope this helps.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

In a standard breast lift the nipple is not removed.  It stays attached to the breast the entire time.  The skin that around the nipple is what is removed and shaped in order to give the lifted result.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you who can demonstrate what occurs during the procedure.

Praful Ramineni, MD · Answer

In Mastopexy (lift surgery), there are incisions made around the nipple, however the nerves/blood supply are left attached.  This keeps nipple sensation intact while removing extra skin.  Make sure to see a surgeon that is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.