A breast lift, clinically known as a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to correct sagging by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. The Donut Lift, or periareolar breast lift, is a specific, less-invasive technique within the mastopexy category. This procedure is specifically designed for patients with limited cosmetic goals, primarily addressing mild sagging and size correction of the areola. It is distinguished by its minimal incision pattern compared to more extensive lifting methods.
Defining the Donut Lift
The Donut Lift is a cosmetic surgery technique that aims to restore a perkier appearance to breasts experiencing minimal to mild sagging. It is also known as a Benelli lift or circumareolar mastopexy, terms that reflect the circular nature of the procedure. This lift primarily addresses loose skin around the areola and is frequently utilized to reduce the diameter of an enlarged areola. Because it only removes a limited amount of skin, the Donut Lift achieves a subtle elevation, typically providing an upward shift of the nipple-areola complex by about 1 to 3 centimeters.
The procedure is named for the shape of the tissue removed during the operation. This technique contrasts sharply with a standard full mastopexy, which involves multiple incisions and allows for significant reshaping of the entire breast mound. The Donut Lift is considered a mini breast lift with a conservative approach to correction. It offers a much less noticeable scar pattern than the “lollipop” or “anchor” lifts, making it a popular choice for those concerned about visible scarring.
The Periareolar Incision Technique
The surgical technique is defined by the unique pattern of its incisions, which are exclusively placed around the areola’s perimeter. The procedure begins with the surgeon making two concentric circular incisions, drawn to resemble a donut shape, around the areola. The inner incision follows the natural border where the pigmented areola meets the surrounding breast skin. The outer incision is marked a short distance away, creating a ring of skin between the two cuts.
The surgeon removes the ring of skin and underlying tissue between these two circular incisions. This removed skin is the “donut” portion of the procedure, and its width determines the degree of lift achieved. Once the tissue is removed, the remaining edges of the outer breast skin and the areola’s edge are brought together. This closure is executed using a specialized suturing technique, often described as a purse-string or drawstring effect, which gathers the surrounding skin and tightens the tissue, effectively lifting the nipple-areola complex.
Ideal Candidates and Procedure Limitations
The Donut Lift is best suited for individuals who exhibit minimal to mild breast sagging, technically classified as Grade I ptosis. Candidates typically have smaller or medium-sized breasts with good overall skin elasticity. The primary goal for these patients is a modest lift and often a reduction in the size of an enlarged areola. It is also effective when combined with breast augmentation, as the incision allows for implant placement while raising the nipple to a more appropriate height.
This technique is significantly limited in its ability to address more substantial issues of breast shape and volume. Patients with moderate or severe sagging, which involves significant drooping of the breast mound below the inframammary fold, are not suitable for this procedure. The single periareolar scar pattern cannot provide the necessary access to remove the large amounts of excess skin required for significant breast reshaping and elevation. Attempting to use the Donut Lift for severe ptosis often results in a poor outcome, including a flattened breast profile or distortion of the areola.
Recovery and Post-Procedure Expectations
Initial recovery from a Donut Lift is generally shorter and less uncomfortable than with more extensive breast lift procedures, with many patients returning to desk work within seven to ten days. Patients are typically instructed to wear a specialized surgical bra continuously for several weeks to support the healing tissues. Strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and reaching, are restricted for approximately four to six weeks to prevent tension on the incision lines.
The resulting scar is confined to the circumference of the areola, where the natural change in skin pigmentation helps to camouflage the line. Immediately following surgery, the scar may appear red or pink and slightly raised. Scar maturation is a gradual process, with significant fading and softening occurring over the course of six to twelve months. Temporary side effects like swelling, bruising, and a short-term change in nipple sensation are common in the first few weeks following the procedure.