Breast Surgery Scars: Periareolar, Vertical, "J"-shaped, "L"-shaped, and Inverted "T"

• August 27, 2025
• By Fernando Amato

Breast surgery scars. See what types of incisions are used in breast surgeries and how each one influences the aesthetic and functional outcome.

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Breast surgery, whether mastopexy (lift) or reduction mammoplasty, brings great aesthetic and functional benefits. However, all surgery involves scars, and the positioning of these marks depends on the technique used.

Understanding breast surgery scars is therefore essential to align expectations and choose, together with the surgeon, the best approach. Some techniques result in discreet scars, while others require larger incisions to ensure safety and symmetry.

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Highlights

• ✨ Breast surgery scars vary according to technique and breast volume.
• 🩺 Periareolar incision: indicated for small corrections and mild ptosis.
• 🔹 Vertical and "J/L" incision: balance aesthetic results and smaller scars.
• 🔎 Inverted T incision: standard for gigantomastia, allows extensive reshaping.
• 🤝 The choice must be individualized after careful medical evaluation.

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Types of incision in breast surgery

1. Periareolar Incision (Benelli, Round Block)

The periareolar incision involves a scar around the areola, which can be associated with concentric de-epithelialization, known as "round block".

Advantages

• Scar disguised at the areola-skin junction.
• Indicated for mild to moderate corrections of sagging (ptosis).
• An excellent option when associated with silicone implant placement.

Disadvantages

• Limited for skin resection in cases of large breasts.
• Risk of areola enlargement.
• May flatten the upper pole of the breast.

Indication

• Patients with mild to moderate ptosis.
• Aesthetic corrections with or without implants.

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2. Vertical Incision (Lejour / Lassus)

The vertical technique combines the periareolar scar with a straight extension to the inframammary fold.

Advantages

• Reduced scar compared to the inverted "T".
• Improved breast projection and conical shape.
• Excellent for more natural results.

Disadvantages

• Possibility of skin folds (dog ears) at the base of the breast.
• Requires good skin elasticity for accommodation.

Indication

• Moderate to severe ptosis.
• Medium volume hypertrophies.

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3. "J" or "L" Incision

A variant of the vertical technique, it includes a small lateral or medial extension, forming a "J" or "L".

Advantages

• Allows better skin adjustment in cases of asymmetry.
• Smaller scar than the inverted "T".

Disadvantages

• May cause scar asymmetry.
• Less predictability in removing excess skin.

Indication

• Asymmetric hypertrophies.
• Excess skin located in specific quadrants.

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4. Inverted "T" Incision (Wise Pattern)

The most traditional for large reductions, it combines periareolar + vertical + horizontal scar in the inframammary fold.

Advantages

• Allows greater skin resection.
• Offers more predictable results in voluminous breasts.
• Ensures extensive reshaping.

Disadvantages

• Greater scar extent.
• Risk of complications at the "T" junction (dehiscence).

Indication

• Gigantomastia and severe hypertrophies.
• Cases of severe sagging with excess skin.
• When maximum predictability is needed.

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Practical Summary of breast surgery scars

• Periareolar: mild ptosis, small corrections.
• Vertical: moderate ptosis, seeking a smaller scar.
• J/L: intermediate or asymmetric cases.
• Inverted T: gigantomastia, large reductions, greater predictability.

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Important Internal Links

• Mammoplasty
• Mastopexy
• Anesthesia in Plastic Surgery
• Preoperative Preparation
• Tips for preparing for surgery
• Smoking and surgical risks

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Most frequent questions about breast surgery scars!

1. Does the breast surgery scar disappear over time?

It doesn't disappear completely, but it can become very discreet with proper care and treatments.

2. Which technique leaves the smallest scar?

The periareolar incision, but it is not always indicated for all cases.

3. Is there breast surgery without a visible scar?

No. All leave scars, but they can be placed in less noticeable locations.

4. How long does it take for the scar to mature?

12 to 18 months, varying according to each organism.

5. Can I choose the type of scar?

The decision is made in conjunction with the surgeon, based on the characteristics of the breast.

6. Can the scar widen?

Yes, especially in periareolar incisions or if there is poor healing.

7. How to avoid bad scars after surgery?

Follow medical recommendations, avoid smoking, and take care of the skin.

8. Is the vertical incision better than the "T"?

It depends on the case. The vertical is great for moderate cases, but the "T" is safer for large breasts.

9. Can a mastopexy scar be corrected later?

Yes, there are treatments such as laser, beta-therapy, and surgical revisions.

10. Can I get pregnant after surgery?

Yes, but pregnancy can compromise the aesthetic result of the breast.

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