Lollipop instead of donut lift for more predictable positive results? (Photos)

Question

I’ve read and seen for myself that a donut lift can lead to widened scars and stretched out areolae, even in patients with small breasts with minimal sag. If patients accept the additional vertical scar, is it true that a lollipop lift presents a much lower risk of stretched out areolae and widened scars, compared to the donut lift?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @8cjgkkkk, thank you for your question. The type of scar depends on the surgical technique of the specialist performing the surgery. In my practice I always perform the L-shaped scar that allows the patient to have a scar-free cleavage. I have been performing the technique for 21 years and it is a technique that works perfectly in breast lift, breast reduction and reconstruction. Keep in mind that the shape is the responsibility of the surgical technique that we do and the scar is directly associated with the care 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.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I never use the lollipop or anchor techniques. I recommend 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.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Donut lifts are for people that wouldn't even get a lift by most surgeons. Those that need a breast lift are almost always better served with a formal lift. What is best for you cannot be determined by this format, and would need in person consultation.

Anna Steve, MD · Answer

Absolutely. One of the greatest factors for widened scars is tension across the incision while it is healing. In the periareolar, or donut shaped lift, all of the tension during the healing process will be across the scars around the nipple. Tension is also the factor that causes the areola to become stretched. 
The vertical scar helps re-distribute the tension, limiting the risk of areola stretching and wide peri-areolar scars.

Wess Cohen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. By utilizing a Lollipop instead of a doughnut technique, the skin tension is distributed along a longer length. This decreases the amount of tension that is put around the areola. With that being said a doughnut mastopexy can be a good option for a select subset of patients. Widening of the areola can be minimized by certain surgical techniques, but it is always a risk.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements. 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. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Type of breast lift should be based on the amount of lifting and skin excess. In most cases donut lift is used for minimal lift and too large areolas. It does not have such a wide use as it had 20 plus years ago; stretched scar and stretched areola is mayor reason for it. Lollipop scar is used for more substantial lifts and, in general, creates better scars. However, type of breast lift needed and possible implications, is best discussed with your surgeon ahead of surgery. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear 8cjgkkkk,
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

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I stopped doing donut lifts many years ago for specifically the reasons you mention. The lollipop lift is a far better option because it prevents the areolae from stretching out and the scars heal better

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The doughnut lift works well in specific cases. If there is a change you need the vertical lift, do the vertical lift.  Your surgeon can measure you and see what is needed.