Will I scar badly from a Breast Reduction? Dr. Bunkis answers

“I am interested in a breast reduction but my research has shown me a lot of examples with very noticeable scars. Do all breast reductions end up with bad scars?” — Kelly P., Coto de Caza, CA

You are correct in thinking that the traditional breast reduction and other cosmetic breast procedures frequently leave rather noticeable scars, especially if compared to the rarely visible scars after procedures such as a face lift or eyelid surgery. These scars run around the areolus, vertically down to the fold and horizontally along the fold (i.e. the inverted “T” incision”). But newer techniques today, most of them pioneered in Europe and South America, allow a surgeon to obtain similar results with minimal incisions (as short as a single incision, one quarter of an inch long, if the procedure can be done using liposuction techniques).

Incision patterns chosen by the surgeon will be dictated by the surgeon’s experience, the patient’s anatomy and each patient’s expectations. It is possible today to significantly reduce many breasts with minimal incisions, occasionally utilizing liposuction alone. The decision regarding which technique will be employed can only be made after a thorough consultation and a discussion regarding patient expectations.

The liposuction procedure can reduce breast volume but will not result in a significant skin tightening or elevation of the nipple. If a significant reduction also requires elevation of the nipple, the newer techniques which result in incisions either just around the areolus or including a vertical component may suffice. And occasionally, with very large breasts or a desire for an elevated nipple, the surgeon may still recommend the inverted “T” incision if a significant skin excess is present. Various options can be seen in our gallery, and some are below.

But the most important part is to find a surgeon who is well-versed in all of these techniques, and to choose the procedure which will give you the result you expect with the least amount of scarring possible. Please feel free to call Dr. Bunkis at Orange County Plastic Surgery (949-888-9700) to discuss your options.

(Actual patient of Dr. Bunkis)
39 year old Hispanic female, before and seven months after a short scar breast reduction (before the scars have finished maturing).