What is a Breast Lift?

Breast lifts, which doctors refer to as mastopexies, continue to gain popularity among women aiming to enhance and rejuvenate their appearance. As with every surgical procedure, scars from breast lifts are an expected outcome. The way these scars look and how noticeable they are often depend on the specific surgical technique the surgeon employs. Different methods leave distinct scar patterns, and understanding these can help set proper expectations for prospective patients.

1. Crescent Lift

• The surgeon makes a cut that looks like a small crescent or half-moon on the top edge of the nipple. With this opening, they gently lift the breast into its new position. The scar from this cut is usually pretty small and heals nicely.

2. Lollipop Lift 

• This technique results in a scar that encircles the areola and runs vertically down the breast, resembling a lollipop.

  Ideal For:

• Women with a moderate degree of sagging.
• Those requiring reshaping in addition to lifting.

  Pros:

• Allows for more extensive reshaping and removal of excess skin.
• Still offers a relatively minimal scar compared to more invasive methods.

  Procedure Overview:

• After encircling the areola with an incision, surgeons make another vertical cut down to the base of the breast. This provides them with ample access to tissues for optimal lift and reshaping.

3. Anchor Lift 

• If you get an anchor lift, you’ll have a scar shaped like an upside-down T or an anchor. This scar goes around the nipple, moves straight down, and then goes across the bottom of the breast.

  Best Suited For:

• Women who experience intense sagging of their breasts.
• Individuals are keen on removing a significant portion of excess skin.

  Benefits:

• Delivers pronounced and transformative results.
• Facilitates a thorough reshaping of the breast and effective removal of redundant skin.

4. Donut Breast Lift Incision

• Also called the “concentric” lift, due to the circular shape of the incision, the concentric breast lift incision is made around the entire areola. This allows for slightly more access to perform a more significant lift to the breast than the crescent incision.
• Though a more dramatic lift can be made, this incision option is for breasts with minor to moderate sagging or for corrective breast surgery where a nipple reduction takes place. When the nipple is put into place and the incision is closed, the ridge of your areola, where there is already a natural shift in color and texture, will be where your scar is hidden.

Procedure in Detail

A Simple Guide to Breast Lift Incisions

When you get a breast lift, surgeons make specific cuts to help reshape the breast. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Around the Nipple: The first cut goes around the nipple. It’s for adjusting its position.
• Down the Middle: The next cut goes straight down the center of the breast. This helps reshape the inside.
• Bottom Curve: The last cut is on the lower curve of the breast. This helps with the overall shape.

In short, these three cuts help surgeons lift and shape the breast. Knowing this can help you understand what to expect from the procedure.

These incisions allow surgeons to easily access and work with the entire breast tissue. Consequently, they reshape the breast meticulously, aligning it with the patient’s aesthetic desires and goals.

By understanding the specifics of the anchor lift, potential candidates can better anticipate the surgical process and post-operative results. Always remember to discuss your concerns and expectations with a certified plastic surgeon before deciding on the procedure.

How to Care for Scars After Breast Lift Surgery

• Choosing Your Procedure: Different surgeries can lead to different types and lengths of scars. Consult with your surgeon to understand the best type of procedure for your goals and the potential scars associated with each.
• Follow Doctor’s Orders: Your surgeon will provide post-operative care guidelines. This often includes cleaning instructions, recommended ointments or creams, and activity restrictions. Always follow these directions closely.
• Eat & Drink for Recovery: Consume protein-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and tofu, which can help skin repair. Vitamin C found in citrus fruits, broccoli, and bell peppers can aid in collagen production, which is crucial for scar healing. Stay well-hydrated with water and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate the skin.
• Routine Scar Care: Applying vitamin E or silicone gel sheets can promote healing and reduce scar appearance, but consult your surgeon before use.
• Protect from the Sun: UV rays can darken and discolor the scar. Use sunscreen or protective clothing for at least a year after surgery
• Gentle Massages: About 2 weeks post-op (with surgeon’s approval), gently massaging the scar can increase circulation, helping to reduce its appearance.
• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Both can impede the healing process. If possible, try to reduce or eliminate these after surgery.
• Consider Professional Scar Treatments: If you’re concerned about the appearance of your scars, treatments like laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or even surgical scar revision might be options. Discuss with your surgeon.

In Summary: Regular care, a healthy lifestyle, and patience are essential for optimal scar healing after a breast lift. Keep in touch with your surgeon and address any concerns promptly.