Types of Breast Lift Incisions and What They Mean for Scarring

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is a transformative procedure that can restore a youthful, lifted appearance to the breasts by addressing sagging and reshaping breast tissue.¹ One of the key factors influencing the outcome of a breast lift is the incision pattern chosen by your surgeon. The type of incision not only determines how much lifting and reshaping can be achieved but also affects the size, location, and visibility of scarring. Here’s what you need to know about the most common breast lift incision techniques and their impact on scarring.

Crescent Incision

The crescent incision is the least invasive technique and involves a small, curved incision along the upper half of the areola. This method is typically used for patients with minimal sagging who need a subtle lift.²

Scarring:
Since the crescent incision is limited to the upper border of the areola, scarring is minimal and well-hidden within the darker pigmentation. This technique is ideal for patients who want a discreet lift with virtually invisible scars. However, it is not suitable for those requiring significant breast reshaping or tissue removal.

Circumareolar (Donut) Incision

The circumareolar, or “donut,” incision is made around the entire circumference of the areola. Often used to correct a “Snoopy” deformity, also known as tuberous breasts,³ this technique allows for more lifting and reshaping than the crescent incision and is often used for patients with mild to moderate sagging.

Scarring:
The scar is confined to the outer edge of the areola, making it relatively inconspicuous, especially for patients with larger or darker areolas. Over time, the scar tends to blend in with the natural color contrast between the areola and surrounding skin. This technique is often combined with breast augmentation to improve overall shape and volume.

Vertical (Lollipop) Incision

The vertical, or “lollipop,” incision uses two cuts: one around the areola’s circumference and a vertical line extending from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease. This method is suitable for patients with moderate sagging who need more extensive reshaping without a horizontal incision.

Scarring:
The lollipop incision leaves a visible scar around the areola and a vertical line down the lower portion of the breast. While the vertical scar is more noticeable than those from crescent or circumareolar techniques, it typically fades over time and can be hidden under most clothing. The lollipop technique provides a significant lift with minimal scarring compared to more invasive methods.

Wise (Anchor Incision) Incision

The anchor incision is the most comprehensive technique and is used for patients with significant sagging or those requiring extensive reshaping. This method involves three cuts: one around the areola, a vertical line from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal line along the breast fold.

Scarring:
As the name suggests, this incision pattern resembles an anchor or inverted T. While this method leaves the most noticeable scars, it allows for maximum lifting and reshaping. The horizontal scar in the breast crease is typically hidden by clothing and bras, and over time, the scars can fade with proper care. Patients who undergo the anchor technique often feel that the dramatic improvement in breast shape outweighs concerns about scarring.

Managing Scarring After Surgery

Regardless of the incision technique used, proper post-operative care can significantly reduce the visibility of scars.⁴ Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for wound care, avoid sun exposure on the incision sites, and consider using scar-reducing treatments like silicone cream and gel sheets or laser therapy to promote healing and minimize scarring.

Choosing the Right Incision for Your Goals

The type of breast lift incision chosen will depend on your unique anatomy, degree of sagging, and desired outcome. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate technique to achieve your goals while minimizing visible scarring.

Dr. Tal T. Roudner is experienced in customizing breast lift procedures to suit each patient’s individual needs, ensuring beautiful, natural-looking results with carefully planned incisions and optimal scar management. Contact us today to learn more about your breast lift options and schedule a consultation.

¹ Cleveland Clinic. Breast Lift. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23298-breast-lift. Accessed January 6, 2024.
² Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Crescent Mastopexy and Augmentation. https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/citation/1985/04000/crescent_mastopexy_and_augmentation.15.aspx. Accessed January 6, 2024.
³ Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. The “donut” mastopexy: indications and complications. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7350575/. Accessed January 6, 2024.
⁴ Seminars in Plastic Surgery. Update on Postsurgical Scar Management. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4961501/. Accessed January 6, 2024.