A vertical scar, in the context of breast surgery, is a specific type of scar resulting from a surgical technique used for breast reduction or breast lift procedures.
Here's a breakdown:
- It typically involves a scar that runs vertically down the breast, from the lower edge of the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) to the inframammary fold (IMF, the crease where the breast meets the chest wall).
- The vertical scar technique is often chosen for patients with mild to moderate breast sagging (ptosis) and/or moderate breast enlargement (hypertrophy).
- Compared to other breast surgery techniques like the traditional anchor-shaped incision, the vertical scar technique aims for a shorter scar. It's often used in younger women or those with denser breast tissue.
- The internal tissue removal before closing the incision often results in a shape resembling a snowman or a keyhole.
In summary, a vertical scar in breast surgery is the result of a technique designed to address mild to moderate breast drooping and/or enlargement with a scar that runs vertically down the lower portion of the breast.
