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What Are the Benefits of Each Breast Lift Surgical Technique?

Posted March 20, 2025 in Breast

Female wearing black bra

Whether due to aging, pregnancy, weight loss, or genetics, many women experience a loss of breast firmness over time. Fortunately, several surgical techniques can help restore a youthful and natural look. Each breast lift technique offers unique benefits based on the degree of sagging and the patient’s goals. Below, we’ll explore the advantages of the four main breast lift techniques.

3 Min Read:

Crescent Lift: A Subtle Enhancement

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a procedure designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts. The crescent lift technique is the least invasive approach to a breast lift. It involves a small, crescent-shaped incision along the top of the areola.

Benefits of the Crescent Lift

  • Minimal scarring: The incision is small and blends into the areola.
  • Quick recovery: Less tissue disruption means a faster healing process.
  • Ideal for mild sagging: Best for patients who need only a slight lift.
  • Can be combined with breast augmentation: Often performed alongside implants for added volume.

This technique is perfect for women with minimal breast drooping who want a subtle, natural-looking improvement.

Benelli Lift: A Balanced Approach

The Benelli lift technique, also called a periareolar or donut lift, involves a circular incision around the areola. It allows for more reshaping than the crescent lift technique while keeping scarring minimal.

Benefits of the Benelli Lift

  • Moderate lift with minimal scarring: Incisions are discreetly placed along the areola’s edge, making it easy for scars to blend in with the surrounding tissue.
  • Improves breast shape and symmetry: Great for correcting mild to moderate sagging.
  • Can reduce areola size: Helps achieve a more proportionate and balanced appearance.
  • Works well with implants: Can be combined with augmentation for enhanced volume.

Women who want a moderate lift with minimal visible scarring often choose this technique.

Lollipop Lift: A Versatile Solution

The lollipop lift technique, also known as the vertical lift, is a popular option for women with moderate breast sagging. It requires two incisions—one around the areola and another running vertically down to the breast crease.

Benefits of the Lollipop Lift

  • More reshaping power: Allows for greater lifting and contouring than the crescent or Benelli lift techniques.
  • Natural-looking results: Ideal for women who want perkier, youthful breasts without implants.
  • Less scarring than an anchor lift: Incisions are minimal compared to more extensive techniques.
  • Great for moderate sagging: Ideal for those needing more than a subtle lift but not extensive reconstruction.

This technique is excellent for women who want significant improvement in breast shape without extensive scarring.

Anchor Lift: The Most Dramatic Transformation

The anchor lift, or inverted-T lift, is the most extensive breast lift technique. It involves three incisions: one around the areola, one down the center of the breast, and another along the breast crease.

Benefits of the Anchor Lift

  • Best for severe sagging: Provides the most dramatic lift and reshaping.
  • Maximizes breast contouring: Ideal for women with significant excess skin or downward-pointing nipples.
  • Long-lasting results: The comprehensive technique ensures durable, natural-looking improvements.
  • Can be combined with breast reduction or augmentation: Works well for women who need additional volume adjustments.

Although it involves more scarring, the incisions fade over time, and the results are transformative.

Which Breast Lift Technique Is Right for You?

The best breast lift technique depends on your breast shape, the degree of sagging, and your aesthetic goals. Whether you need a subtle lift or a dramatic reshaping, your surgeon can help determine the ideal approach for you.

Here’s a quick comparison of breast lift techniques:

Lift TypeIdeal ForScarringKey Benefit
Crescent LiftMild saggingMinimalQuick recovery, subtle lift
Benelli LiftMild to moderate saggingMinimal, around areolaShapes and lifts with discreet scarring
Lollipop LiftModerate saggingAround areola + vertical incisionGreater reshaping, natural-looking results
Anchor LiftSevere saggingAnchor-shaped incisionMaximum lift and contouring

Interested in a Breast Lift in Orange County, CA?

If you’re considering a breast lift, consulting with an experienced surgeon is essential. Dr. Daniel Urias has years of expertise in helping women achieve their desired look with customized surgical techniques. Schedule a consultation today by calling (714) 844-6334 or filling out our contact form. A more confident, youthful you is just a call away.