Breast Reduction: Comparing 4 Incision Methods

When the breasts are very large, it can lead not only to concerns about appearance but also to various forms of discomfort. The shoulders and neck can feel pulled, heavy, and painful; posture may become hunched forward due to the weight of the breasts or from a habit of trying to conceal a large chest; and the skin under the breast fold can become damp and prone to skin problems, or the skin on the upper breast can develop stretch marks.

Breast reduction surgery reduces glandular tissue and skin to relieve this discomfort, and the shape of the incision is the same as for a breast lift. This article compares the characteristics of the main incision methods. You can find more about the surgeon on the About the Doctor page.

What surgical methods are used for breast reduction?

There are three main methods: the periareolar incision, the "I"-shaped incision, and the "T"-shaped incision, as well as an areolar-incision lift that only involves an incision around the upper areola. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the surgery that fits your particular situation, and the patient's own preference is also an important consideration.

What is the periareolar incision method?

The periareolar incision tends to leave relatively little scarring. However, when the breast is lifted significantly, the skin around the areola may appear wrinkled or folded for one to two months after surgery, gradually smoothing out as those months pass. Because it takes time for the area to settle, some patients find this waiting period difficult, and it may not be suitable for patients with thicker skin.

Why is the "I"-shaped incision method widely used?

The "I"-shaped incision method lifts and fixes the nipple to the desired position, supports the lower portion of the breast, and closes the area beneath the nipple with a straight-line suture. A scar in the shape of the letter "I" remains, its length corresponding to how much the nipple was lifted. As a variation of the T-shaped surgery that was widely used in the past, it tends to leave less scarring, and is often used as an intermediate option between the periareolar incision—which leaves little scarring but takes longer to settle—and the T-shaped incision. With this method too, the sutured area may appear wrinkled for one to two months, but it tends to settle faster than with the periareolar incision.

Is the "T"-shaped incision method still used today?

The "T"-shaped incision was widely used in the past and leaves a scar in the shape of an inverted letter "T" after surgery. Because the lower scar tends to be hidden by the underwear line and is not very visible, this method is still used today. However, since the scar along the lower breast can be relatively long, it is generally described as less preferred among Asian patients.

Can breast reduction and a breast lift be done at the same time?

The incision shape for breast reduction surgery is the same as for a breast lift. Because the nipple position is raised as part of the reduction process, lifting and reduction can be performed at the same time; there is also an areolar-incision lift method, in which an incision is made around the upper areola to raise the internal glandular tissue and reduce excess skin. However, the choice of surgical method, the results, and the time it takes for scars to settle vary by individual. Which method is right for you should be decided after a comprehensive evaluation of breast size, degree of sagging, skin condition, and other factors, in consultation with a specialist. If you have any questions, please reach out via Book a Consultation.

Consultation Information

Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) · 2F Apgujeong Building, 842 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · 02-3416-0070 (after hours 070-4027-0070) · Book a Consultation

This article is provided for informational purposes only, and the effects and recovery period of any surgery or procedure may vary by individual. All medical procedures carry a possibility of side effects, so please consult thoroughly with a specialist.

Procedure Detail Materials

Below are procedure guide materials from the previous website (surgery.co.kr). Before-and-after results may vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry a possibility of side effects.