The breast reduction procedure can be completed using several incision techniques depending on the degree of correction required. Two of the more popular options for a breast reduction are the keyhole and inverted-T incisions.

A keyhole, or racquet-shaped, incision goes around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. An inverted-T, or anchor-shaped, incision is more complex because it involves an added incision along the crease of the breast. Each incision allows the underlying breast tissue to be reduced, lifted and shaped.

After the incision is made, the nipple (which remains tethered to its original blood and nerve supply) is then repositioned. The areola is reduced by excising skin at the perimeter, if necessary.

Occasionally, for extremely large pendulous breasts, the nipple and areola may need to be removed and transplanted to a higher position on the breast (free-nipple graft).

Any post-operative marks are usually well concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra.

For more information regarding breast reduction incisions, contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. JoAnne Lopes at our Virginia Beach location.