Minimizing Scarring after Breast Lift Surgery
By Dennis Hurwitz on November 22, 2016
A breast lift can improve the appearance of the breasts and help women achieve more youthful contours. As with any surgery, however, a breast lift will result in some scarring. Dr. Dennis Hurwitz addresses this concern with each of his patients. He will not only help you understand the potential for scarring after breast lift surgery at our Pittsburgh, PA, office, but will also provide detailed instructions to help minimize their visibility. With his advanced surgical techniques and proper post-surgical incision care, you can experience minimal scarring.
Breast Lift Incision Patterns
One of the first things you will discuss during your consultation with Dr. Hurwitz is the incision pattern for your breast lift. The pattern he selects is primarily dictated by the amount of lift your breasts require. The more extensive lift you need, the larger the incision pattern needed.
Crescent Incision
Also known as a periareolar incision, this involves a half-circle incision created along the upper half of the areola. The incision is discreetly placed right along the edge of the areola. As the scar heals, it blends in well with the areola for minimal visibility.
Donut Incision
The donut incision, or a circumareolar lift, creates two incisions around the areola. The first incision is placed directly around the perimeter of the areola. A second incision encircles the first incision, creating the donut pattern.
Lollipop Incision
This incision pattern combines the donut pattern with a vertical incision. The vertical incision extends down from the bottom of the areola to the center of the breast crease.
Anchor Incision
The anchor pattern is the traditional incision pattern used for a breast lift. This pattern creates a horizontal incision along the breast crease. Another incision extends vertically from the center of the breast crease up to the bottom of the areola.
Minimizing the Appearance of Breast Lift Scars
Dr. Hurwitz will select the incision pattern that will result in the least amount of scarring while providing the maximum lift. He will also provide you with detailed post-surgical instructions to care for your incisions. If he placed drains at the incision sites, you must clean them regularly to prevent infection. You must also clean the incisions and change your bandages. Within seven to 10 days, Dr. Hurwitz will remove your stitches.
Eventually, your incisions will heal and scab. As they heal, they will itch, but to ensure minimal scarring, you must avoid scratching them. Over time, your incisions will turn red and eventually fade to pink. You will need to avoid direct sun exposure for up to 12 months. A good skin care routine can help ensure proper healing and minimize the visibility of your scars.
Schedule Your Breast Lift Consultation Today
If you feel self-conscious about your appearance due to sagging breasts, a breast lift can achieve more youthful contours. You can feel confident that Dr. Hurwitz will use the appropriate incision pattern to minimize scarring. If you are ready for a breast lift, contact our plastic surgery practice today to schedule your consultation.
“I honestly never thought of myself as a serious candidate for elective surgery ... but I’m already feeling and looking so much better.*” Jill's Story
