How common is a donut lift and what are the pros and cons?

Question

Do many surgeons actually carry out this technique? Pros and cons? I only need a small lift on one breast. But unable to find surgeons that use this technique. Thanks

Salvador Medina, MD · Answer

Hello! This is a technique that can be used in patients that need a very small lift, more to reposition the nipple and areola. We can achieve very good results depending on your breast size and shape. 
Dr. Medina

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. To provide a valid medical opinion I will need to see pictures of you body from different angles. I would suggest to be treated by board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this procedure, to get the best desired results.

Respectfully,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Respectfully,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The disadvantage of the donut lift is it produces minimal displacement and the scars can widen and need revision. The technique I recommend is a mini lift. Using a circumareola incision, your breast tissue is reshaped, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

A lot of surgeons do the donut lift primarily because it’s easier and more appealing than a standard lift. Also fewer scars. However it tends to stretch out the areolae and the scars often widen. I have had a lot of questions on realself from unhappy donut lift patients. In addition you get virtually no lift from it. Loser all around

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Uk35,
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 surgery, I would suggest you 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

Kalila Steen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! It is always best to seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to assess for your individual needs.
A donut lift is less common than a vertical (AKA lollipop) or anchor pattern lift. It is suitable for patients who have a small amount of sagging of the areola. 
The main advantage of a donut lift is the limited scar around the areola without a vertical or horizontal scar. Disadvantages include that it can sometimes result in widening of the areola and a boxy/flat appearing breast. Some surgeons use a permanent Gore-Tex suture to help prevent widening of the areola, but it is possible for the suture to become infected or break.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Most surgeons will do the peri-areolar lift when it is needed. Many women want this lift to do more than it can and the results may leave the breast somewhat wide and flat.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Periareolar lifts are quite common and are of benefit for smaller lifts and less scars.  They have a few drawbacks.  First, they may flatten the breast projection a little as they are more of a 2D tightening vs a lollipop or anchor lift which is more of a 3D lift.
So they cannot raise the breast or tighten the skin too much, but they leave a smaller scar.
One con is that the scar may sometimes stretch out.

How common is a donut lift and what are the pros and cons?

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