What It Is

Short-scar breast reduction, also called the vertical breast reduction or lollipop technique, is a surgical procedure that reduces breast size while minimizing visible scarring. Unlike the traditional anchor-shaped incision, this technique uses a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision down to the breast crease.

It is best suited for women with moderate breast enlargement and sagging, offering effective reduction and lift while avoiding the longer horizontal scar along the breast fold. In Korea, surgeons perform this procedure with advanced tissue-shaping techniques, often combining it with liposuction for improved contour.

Why It’s Done

Patients undergo short-scar breast reduction because:

• They want smaller, lighter, and firmer breasts with minimal scarring.
• They experience discomfort such as back, neck, or shoulder pain from large breasts.
• They have moderate sagging that needs correction.
• They want a balance between function, comfort, and aesthetics.

Good candidates include:

• Women with moderately enlarged breasts and some sagging.
• Patients seeking reduction but also concerned about scars.
• Those in good general health with realistic expectations.

Alternatives

• Anchor-pattern breast reduction for very large breasts or severe sagging.
• Liposuction-only breast reduction for fatty breasts with little sagging.
• Weight loss and supportive bras for temporary symptom relief.
• Non-surgical methods, though these do not provide permanent results.

Preparation

Before short-scar breast reduction in Korea, patients will:

• Undergo a consultation with breast measurements and imaging if needed.
• Stop smoking and alcohol 2–4 weeks prior to surgery.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and certain supplements.
• Discuss desired breast size and incision options with their surgeon.
• Plan for 1–2 weeks of downtime after surgery.

How It’s Done

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is required.
• Incisions: Around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease (lollipop shape).
• Tissue removal: Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are excised.
• Reshaping: Remaining tissue is lifted and contoured for a natural breast shape.
• Nipple repositioning: The nipple-areola complex is moved to a higher, more youthful position.
• Closure: Sutures are placed carefully to minimize scarring.
• Duration: 2–4 hours depending on complexity.

Recovery

• First week: Swelling, bruising, and mild pain are common. A support bra is worn continuously.
• Hospital stay: Usually 1–2 days.
• Return to activities: Light activities after 5–7 days; strenuous activity avoided for 4–6 weeks.
• Final results: Breasts appear lifted, smaller, and proportionate within 2–3 months, with scars fading gradually over 6–12 months.

Possible Complications

• Vertical scar may be noticeable, though shorter than anchor-pattern scars.
• Asymmetry or uneven healing.
• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation.
• Infection, delayed healing, or fat necrosis.
• Recurrence of sagging over time.

Treatment Options in Korea

Diagnosis

Korean surgeons use clinical evaluation, imaging, and 3D simulation to assess breast volume, sagging severity, and plan incision patterns.

Medical Treatments

• Support bras, posture correction, and pain management for mild symptoms.

Surgical or Advanced Therapies

• Short-scar (vertical) breast reduction for moderate hypertrophy.
• Anchor-pattern breast reduction for severe cases.
• Liposuction-assisted reduction for fatty breasts.
• Combination with mastopexy (lift) for better contour.

Rehabilitation and Support

• Scar care with silicone gels, microneedling, or fractional laser therapy.
• Long-term follow-up to monitor breast health and stability.
• Lifestyle guidance to maintain results, including stable weight.
• International patients benefit from Korea’s expertise in advanced breast reduction techniques, scar-minimizing methods, and personalized aftercare services.