Over time, it is natural for the breasts to sag and lose their firmness. Pregnancy and age both play significant factors in causing the breasts to lose elasticity. Fortunately, breast lift surgery can restore the firmness of the breasts and create a perkier, more youthful appearance. To discuss your breast lift options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Edina plastic surgeon Brian J. Kobienia. In the meantime, read on to learn more about the different types of breast lift techniques.
Types of Breast Lift Techniques
There are different types of breast lift techniques. These techniques include the crescent lift, donut lift, lollipop lift, anchor lift, and the “scarless” lift. The technique used depends on the needs of the individual and is often based on the degree of breast sag.
The Crescent Lift Technique
The crescent lift technique is generally reserved for those who suffer from minimal breast sagging. It may also be used in conjunction with breast augmentation for a complete lifting and reshaping of the breasts. The crescent lift technique involves creating a crescent shaped incision above the top portion of the areola. This half moon shape allows a small amount of skin to be removed from above the areola. The breast tissue is then pulled to close the crescent shape and reattached to the areola.
The Donut Lift Technique
The donut lift technique, also called the “peri-areolar” or “Benelli” lift, is best suited to patients with mild to moderate breast sagging. The donut lift technique is performed by creating an incision around the circumference of the areola. Excess tissue is removed through this incision line. The incision is then closed and stitched back in along the areola. The donut lift technique is also useful for reducing the size of the areola, which can enlarge after breast feeding. Like the crescent lift, the donut lift may be combined with breast augmentation to restore breast fullness.
The Lollipop Lift Technique
The lollipop lift is used for patients with more moderate breast sagging. Like the donut lift, the lollipop lift includes an incision around the areola. There is an additional incision that resembles the stick of a lollipop; it is made at the center of the bottom of the areola and extends vertically down the breast. Tissues are removed along the incision so that the skin may be pulled taut and the breasts may be lifted. Once in place, the incisions are stitched closed.
The Anchor Lift Technique
When breast sagging is too severe for the lollipop technique, the anchor lift technique may be performed. The anchor lift involves a series of incisions, which can be described as resembling an anchor. The anchor lift technique includes a vertical incisions down the center of the breast, and around the areola. An incision is then made horizontally beneath the breast, along the natural crease. Excess tissue is then removed and the incisions are joined to reshape and lift the breasts.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about breast lift treatments, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kobienia.
