Techniques Available for Breast Lift Surgery

The breasts are considered by many patients to be one of their most important physical features. As such, it is no surprise that breast surgery is one of the most popular categories of cosmetic surgery. While many women look to breast augmentation to add volume and shape to the breasts, some are simply looking to revitalize the bust line they already have. Breast lift surgery can create a firmer, perkier, and more youthful bust line for patients who have experienced sagging breasts and loose breast tissue.  Dr. Kimberly Henry is experienced in breast lift surgery and offers her San Francisco patients several breast lift techniques that enable her to address the unique needs and concerns of each of them.

 The Anchor Technique

The anchor technique gets its name from the shape of the incision that is used during surgery. This technique involves a circular incision around the areola that then extends down the center of the breast and reaches across the crease of the breast. This incision is generally the first that is considered for breast lift surgery because it allows Dr. Henry the greatest degree of control and allows her to address a significant degree of sagging while also addressing excess tissue and/or the size of the nipple-areolar complex. The anchor breast lift technique can easily be combined with either a breast reduction (for those with larger breasts) or the insertion of a breast implant (for those with smaller breasts).

The Lollipop Technique

Also described by the shape of its incision, the lollipop technique utilizes an incision that circles the areola and then reaches down toward the crease of the breast. This technique can create a tighter breast pocket by removing excess skin from either side of the vertical incision. This holds the breast tissue tighter and creates a firmer breast that sits higher. This technique is ideal for patients whose sagging is due in large part to the loss of skin elasticity.

Periareolar or Circumareolar Technique

The periareolar and circumareolar techniques use an incision that is placed solely around the nipple-areolar complex. With a periareolar technique, the incision extends only halfway around the areola, much like a crescent shape. The circumareolar technique fully encircles the areola, giving it its nickname, the “donut” technique. Both of these techniques allow for the removal and tightening of a small amount of skin, making it ideal for patients who only have a minimal degree of drooping or sagging. For patients with a small bust line, the circumareolar technique can also be combined with the insertion of a breast implant, although, because of the small incision, it is most commonly used with a saline implant, which can be filled after it is in place.

Which Technique is Right for Me?

Dr. Henry will take into consideration a number of factors in order to advise patients on what technique is best suited to their breast lift procedure. Among her considerations are the following factors:

• The natural size and shape of the patient’s breasts
• The degree of sagging that is present
• The size and location of the nipple-areolar complex
• The firmness and elasticity of the breast tissue and skin

Contact Us

Dr. Kimberly Henry believes that it is important for women to feel confident and beautiful, which is why she dedicates her practice to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. If you are interested in enhancing your bust line through breast augmentation or a breast lift, or would like to learn more about our other cosmetic procedures, contact us to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Henry. We look forward to hearing from you!