What Are the Different Types of Breast Lift Scars?

Considering a breast lift surgery? It’s important to understand what the procedure involves, including the potential for scarring.

A breast lift, or mastopexy, can enhance the shape and firmness of your breasts. Knowing the types of scars associated with this surgery will help you make a well-informed choice.

In this blog, we will explore the various types of breast lift scars, providing insights into what to expect and how to manage them.

Causes of Breast Lift Scars

Breast lift scars are primarily due to the surgical incisions required to reshape and elevate the breasts.

The type and extent of scarring depend on several factors:

Incision Type: The type and location of the incision significantly impact the visibility and nature of breast lift scars.
Surgical Technique: Your surgeon’s skill and precision can help minimise scarring, and advanced techniques can reduce scar formation.
Skin Type: Your skin’s characteristics, like thickness and elasticity, affect how scars form and heal.
Post-Operative Care: Proper care, including following scar management instructions, can significantly impact the final appearance of scars.

Different Types of Breast Lift Scars

Lollipop Lift Scar

The Lollipop breast lift, or vertical scar, involves a circular incision around the areola, with an additional vertical incision extending down to the breast crease.

It’s suitable for moderate sagging and provides noticeable lifting with manageable scarring.

Anchor Lift Scar

The Anchor lift scar, or inverted-T, includes incisions around the areola, running vertically down to the breast crease and along the crease itself.

This method is used for significant sagging and reshaping. While it results in more noticeable scarring, it tends to fade with time.

Donut Lift Scar

The Donut lift, or periareolar scar, involves the circles of the entire edge of the areola.

The scar blends into the natural edge of the areola, making it less noticeable.

This technique is often chosen for subtle lifts and provides a conservative yet effective result when combined with breast augmentation.

Crescent Lift Scar

The Crescent lift scar involves a small incision along the upper half of the areola.

It’s typically used for minor lifts, especially when combined with breast augmentation.

This technique offers a subtle lift with minimal visible scarring, making it a good option for those needing slight adjustments.

Breast Lift Without Scars

Scarless Breast Lift

This procedure is an incision-less breast lift that uses radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis to lift and tighten breast tissue above the areola.

A local anaesthetic is applied before inserting a cannula that emits current to achieve the lift.

With no incisions, scarring is minimal or nonexistent. Recovery is faster, but it’s still advised to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol and to care for the treatment areas.

Non-Surgical Breast Lift

Various non-surgical treatments can offer a modest lift lasting up to a year or two.

These methods, including laser, Thermage, vampire breast lift, threading, and Botox, are less expensive and scar-free but provide less dramatic and temporary results compared to surgery.

They are ideal for those with mild breast sagging who want to avoid the risks and scarring of surgical options.

Prevention of Breast Lift Scars

While some scarring after surgery is unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce their visibility:

Look after the incision sites and keep them covered
Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting
Wear a supportive bra, especially when exercising
Gentle massages can reduce inflammation and help the scars fade
Follow a healthy diet and exercise routine
Use silicone sheets or scar gels
Avoid smoking
Avoid sun exposure
Attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon

Breast Lift Scar Treatment

Although scars after surgery are an unavoidable part of the procedure, various options are available for breast lift scar removal that can significantly reduce the visibility of scars:

Laser Treatments: Laser treatments are effective for minimising the appearance of permanent breast lift scars. They work by flattening scars and stimulating the production of new skin cells.

Steroid Injections: Steroid injections reduce the appearance of scars by targeting scar tissue directly. These injections help alleviate symptoms such as itching and redness while also decreasing the size of the scar.

Chemical Peels: Chemical peels aim to improve the appearance of scars by exfoliating damaged skin cells. However, their effectiveness depends on the type of chemicals used, and they may not remove deep scars.
Scar Revision Surgery: Breast lift scar revision surgery improves the appearance of scars by making them blend more seamlessly with the surrounding skin.

Consult our Breast Lift Expert, Dr Faisal Salim, Today!

Understanding the different types of breast lift scars can help you make an informed decision about the procedure. While some scarring is inevitable, the right surgical technique and post-operative care can significantly minimise their appearance.

If you’re considering a breast lift and want personalised advice, consult Dr Faisal Salim. is a highly regarded plastic surgeon in Dubai, known for his exceptional skill and dedication to patient care. With extensive experience and a commitment to the latest advancements, Dr Faisal ensures each procedure is tailored to achieve the most natural and beautiful results.