Do surgeons care about what scars and nipple shapes look like?

Question

Some work I see is just ridiculously sloppy. I’m hesitant to have the procedure because of it.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

Scar quality and nipple/areola shape are important parts of breast lift surgery, but the final look is influenced by both surgical technique and the way your body heals. A careful plan usually includes the incision pattern, areola size and position, skin closure, and tension on the scars. Even with good technique, scars can widen, thicken, darken, or heal unevenly because of skin quality, genetics, nicotine exposure, infection, tension, and aftercare.

Before choosing a surgeon, look at many long-term before-and-after photos, not just early results. Ask how they choose the lift pattern, how they control areola shape, what scar care they recommend, and how they handle revisions if scars or nipple position heal poorly. If a surgeon's portfolio consistently shows scar patterns or nipple shapes you do not like, or if they dismiss your concern, it is reasonable to keep looking. No one can promise perfect scars, but good planning and follow-up can make a meaningful difference.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear SNGuest,
scar prevention begins in the OR during the surgery when I meticulously close wounds in multiple layers in order to reduce tension and reduce scars width. I tape my incisions during the early postoperative period to reduce micromotions of the tissues so the incision can heal earlier. I also use compression garments and later Biocorneum gel.
 Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I developed a technique called 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. The areola scars usually heal very well because there is no tension on the closure, unlike the lollipop or anchor or donut techniques. Also, the inframammary incision can be hidden in the inframammary fold.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @SNGuest, Thank you for your question. In terms of how the scar will develop, there is no guarantee. The shape of the scar depends on specialist expertise and technique to obtain the best aesthetic result. The specialist determines the location and extent of the scar. But the patient determines the final result of her scar. The healing process of the scar is multifactorial. Scar healing depends on the postoperative care, genetics, and daily movements of the patient. For more information and recommendations, it is prudent to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

Most women that have droopy breasts would like to have a breast lift. Within that group there are women who find the breast lift scars unacceptable and decide not to move forward with the procedure. I think the breast scars are the most important aspect of determining if the procedure is right for you. If scars on the breasts are unacceptable then the procedure is not for you.

I can't speak for all surgeons but the majority of us truly want the best outcome including flat, narrow, faint scars that form a pleasing symmetrical pattern including round areolae and level nipples. There are important aspects of the procedure that play a part in outcomes. This includes a thorough well thought out, designed, and measured surgical plan; delicate treatment of the tissue during surgery; and meticulous suture placement to name some. Even with all the right moves, there can be complications including poor wound healing. Poor wound healing may result in temporary open wounds that result in wide scars once completely healed. Poor wound healing may result in a misshaped areola nipple complex. If this was to occur, a scar revision can be performed after full healing.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, we all care. Scarring is not something that we have 100% control over and many patients have a tendency to scar and heal poorly in spite of our best efforts.  If you are hesitant, then do not have surgery.

Sergio Sanchez-Bailon, MD · Answer

Any procedure done in plastic surgery is planned and has the incisions specifically treated for an aesthetic result, taking all the precautions to have the smaller and best final results. Talking about breast lift we are planning lifting the breast tissue using or not an implant, as well as lifting the nipple and giving a rounded result, all of this having the smaller and great looking scars end result.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes a quality board certified plastic surgeon takes pride in her/his work and wants the patient to be happy with the results.  I encourage you to review before/after photos of surgeons you are considering.  Select to have consultations with those who have results that meet your criteria.  Your surgeon will examine you to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure you are considering.  In addition risks and benefits will be explained to you, including scarring.

Neifer Enrique Pedrozo Figueroa, MD · Answer

As a surgeon, I focus on explaining to my patients the care they should have for their scar. among them, make use of medications that can allow better healing. Besides, I focus on performing a very delicate and aesthetic suture

Do surgeons care about what scars and nipple shapes look like?

Answers (9)

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