Is There Such a Thing as a Scarless Breast Lift?

As interest grows in less invasive cosmetic procedures, more patients are asking about the possibility of a breast lift without scars. While “scarless” procedures have become a popular buzzword in aesthetics, it’s important to understand what the term really means and what results are possible. So, what is a scarless breast lift, and can it even be achieved? We break down this emerging trend below.

Scarless Breast Lift Overview

A scarless breast lift is a term often used in marketing to describe non-surgical or minimally invasive breast lift procedures that avoid the traditional incisions and visible scars associated with surgical mastopexy. However, the term can be misleading as no surgery is truly scarless.

Instead, a scarless breast lift is less about the complete absence of incisions and more about the use of advanced techniques that reduce or conceal scarring while lifting and reshaping the breasts. At South Bay Plastic Surgeons, we offer a variety of breast lift options tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals.

Breast Lift Techniques With Less Visible Scarring

Circumareolar (Doughnut) Lift

For those with mild sagging, this technique uses a single incision around the areola’s border. Scarring tends to be minimal and well camouflaged by the natural changes in pigmentation. This option can be performed alone or paired with breast implants for added fullness, making it a popular choice for women seeking a subtle lift with minimal surface changes.

Vertical Breast Lift

This modern method—also known as the lollipop lift—is a favorite among our surgeons. It reshapes the breast and tightens lax skin using just two incisions: one around the areola and one vertical line down to the breast fold.

While this does leave a visible scar on the breast, the results often outweigh the tradeoff: improved breast projection, long-lasting lift, and no horizontal scar under the breast. This technique is ideal for moderate sagging and may not require implants unless you also want to increase volume.

“Scarless” Breast Lift With Implants

In carefully selected cases, adding volume to the upper breast with implants alone can create the appearance of lift without additional lifting incisions. While this doesn’t lift the tissue structurally, it can offer a more youthful contour with little visible scarring. A consultation can help determine whether a breast lift with implants is more appropriate for you.

Patients who can benefit from breast augmentation alone may be able to avoid visible scarring on the breast entirely with the transaxillary incision. This technique inserts saline implants through a small incision in the armpit.

What To Expect From Your Results

Most surgical breast lifts offer long-lasting improvements, especially when paired with a supportive bra and healthy lifestyle. The typical breast lift recovery time generally spans 1 to 2 weeks, with most patients returning to non-strenuous activities quickly.

The Importance of Scar Care

Even with techniques designed to minimize scarring, proper scar care plays a key role in your final results. After your breast lift, our team will provide personalized instructions to support your healing and reduce scar visibility.

In the months following surgery, your incisions will go through a process called scar maturation, gradually softening and fading from red or pink to a lighter tone that closely matches your surrounding skin.

 With consistent care—including sun protection, gentle massage, and medical-grade skincare as recommended—most scars become barely noticeable over time.

Are You a Good Candidate?

The ideal breast lift candidate is in good overall health, has realistic expectations, and is experiencing sagging due to aging, pregnancy, or weight changes. If you’re searching for a scarless breast lift in Los Angeles or want to explore your breast enhancement options, please request a consultation or call us at (310) 784-0644 to get started.