Breast Surgery Scars: Periareolar, Vertical, “J”, “L” and Inverted “T”

• August 27, 2025
• By Fernando Amato

Breast surgery scars. See then 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 (breast 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 the 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 the 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 in gigantomastia, allows extensive remodeling.
• 🤝 The choice should be individualized after a careful medical evaluation.

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Types of breast surgery incisions

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 transition.
• Indicated for mild to moderate corrections of sagging (ptosis).
• Excellent option when associated with the placement of silicone implants.

Disadvantages

• Limited, however, for skin resection in cases of large breasts.
• Risk of areolar widening.
• Can 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 hypertrophy.

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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 for 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 hypertrophy.
• Localized excess skin 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 for greater skin resection.
• Offers more predictable results in voluminous breasts.
• Ensures extensive remodeling.

Disadvantages

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

Indication

• Gigantomastia and severe hypertrophy.
• Cases of great laxity with excess skin.
• When maximum predictability is required.

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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
• Pre-operative Exams
• Tips for preparing for surgery
• Smoking and surgical risks

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Frequently asked questions about breast surgery scars!

1. Do breast surgery scars disappear over time?

They do not disappear completely, but they 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 scarless breast surgery?

No. All leave scars, but they can be positioned in less perceptible areas.

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

From 12 to 18 months, varying according to each organism.

5. Can I choose the type of scar?

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

6. Can the scar widen?

Yes, especially with 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. Vertical is excellent 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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