Stretchmarks: will they always lead to stretching of the areolae in donut/lollipop mastopexy? (Photo)

Question

I have significant stretchmarks from an unfortunate puberty. I had a donut mastopexy 1.5 years ago and while the surgeon didn't reduce them as much as I would have liked, they still stretched out significantly. I was recently told that because of the damage to my skin from the stretchmarks, it is less flexible and therefore my areolae would widen no matter what with a donut, and that a lollipop would be more promising but would also lead to some stretch. Is this true? Any way to mitigate?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear 8cjgkkkk,for scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @8cjgkkkk, thank you for your question. It is important to note that every patient is unique, and the impact of stretch marks on the results of a mastopexy can vary because the healing process vary from patient to patient. However, there are ways to mitigate the risk of stretching and widening of the areola like selecting the appropriate surgical technique based on the patient's individual needs and anatomy. A board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in mastopexy procedures can provide a comprehensive evaluation and suggest the best treatment options for your specific case. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS),International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

It is possible that the stretch marks on your breasts have caused your skin to be less elastic, which can impact the results of a breast lift procedure. A donut mastopexy, also known as a periareolar mastopexy, involves making an incision around the edge of the areola to lift and reshape the breast tissue. This technique can be effective in correcting mild to moderate sagging, but it may not provide enough support or reshaping for more significant cases.

A lollipop mastopexy, also known as a vertical mastopexy, involves making an incision around the edge of the areola and down the center of the breast to create a "lollipop" shape. This technique can provide more significant reshaping and support for the breast tissue, but it does involve more extensive incisions and may lead to more visible scarring.

In your case, a lollipop mastopexy may be a more appropriate option to address the degree of sagging and stretch marks present. However, it is important to note that any breast lift procedure will involve some degree of stretching and tension on the skin, which can impact the final result.

To mitigate the impact of stretching on your skin, it is important to maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking, as these factors can impact skin elasticity. Your surgeon may also recommend techniques such as tissue expanders or fat transfer to help support the skin and minimize stretching during the procedure.

Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your individual anatomy and goals for the procedure. It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with breast lift procedures to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for your unique situation.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I believe a donut mastopexy would be your best option since you do not have enough skin to do a vertical lift.  The drawback of the donut mastopexy is that it tends to flatten the breast.  This can be coupled with a small implant to keep projection.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The skin of the areolae is the most stretchy part of the breast. When the breast stretches, it stretches as well. Going back and just doing a lift or tightening can be more effective.  if needed, the lollipop lift puts less stretch on the areolae and less chance of it stretching.

Stretchmarks: will they always lead to stretching of the areolae in donut/lollipop mastopexy? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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