What is the Benelli Breast Lift?

The Benelli Breast Lift, also known as the “Donut Mastopexy” or “Round Block” technique, is a specialized form of breast lift surgery designed to address moderate sagging and reshape the breasts with minimal scarring. This procedure involves the surgical excision of a “doughnut” of skin and soft tissue around the areola, resulting in a long-term incision that is confined to the area around the areola. Below, we explore the procedure, its advantages, and its disadvantages in detail.

Procedure Overview

The Benelli Breast Lift is named after Dr. Louis Benelli, an Italian plastic surgeon who pioneered this technique. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Incision: A circular incision is made around the outer edge of the areola, creating a “doughnut” shape.
2. Excision: Excess skin and tissue are removed from around the areola.
3. Repositioning: The nipple-areola complex (NAC) is repositioned to a more cephalic (upward) position.
4. Suturing: The remaining tissue is sutured in place using a purse-string or “drawstring” technique, which helps to tighten and firm the breast.

The entire procedure usually takes between one and a half to three hours and can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs and the surgeon’s recommendation.

Advantages of Benelli Breast Lift

Minimal Scarring

One of the most significant advantages of the Benelli Breast Lift is the minimal scarring. The incision is limited to the area around the areola, making the scar less noticeable and easier to conceal in swimwear or underwear. Over time, the scar tends to blend well with the natural pigmentation of the areola, further reducing its visibility[1][2].

Areola Reshaping

The procedure allows for the reshaping of the areola, which can be particularly beneficial for women who wish to adjust the size or shape of their areolas for better symmetry and balance with their breasts. This aspect is often discussed during the initial consultation to ensure that the patient’s aesthetic goals are met[1][2].

Preservation of Sensation and Function

The Benelli Breast Lift typically does not affect nipple sensation or the ability to breastfeed, as the nipple and areola remain attached to the underlying tissue. This makes it a suitable option for women who plan to have children in the future[4].

Combination with Other Procedures

The Benelli technique can be combined with other procedures, such as breast augmentation or fat grafting, to enhance the overall results. This flexibility allows for a more customized approach to meet the patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals[2][4].

Disadvantages of Benelli Breast Lift

Limited Lift

One of the primary disadvantages of the Benelli Breast Lift is that it provides a more limited lift compared to other techniques, such as the inverted-T or lollipop lifts. This makes it less suitable for women with severe breast sagging (ptosis) or those seeking a dramatic change in breast position[1][3].

Potential for Areola Distortion

Over time, the circular areola can become more oval-shaped, leading to an irregular appearance. This is due to the tension placed on the tissue during the healing process, which can cause the areola to stretch and change shape[3].

Scar Tissue Formation

While the initial scarring is minimal, there is a risk of scar tissue forming at the edge of the areola skin closure. This can result in a thicker, more noticeable scar, which may require additional treatments, such as silicone scar gel or laser therapy, to improve its appearance[3][4].

Flat Breast Shape

The Benelli technique can sometimes result in a flatter appearance at the top of the breast, as it primarily addresses the area around the areola. This two-dimensional correction may not provide the rounded, projecting shape that some patients desire, making it less ideal for achieving a natural-looking breast contour[3].

Conclusion

The Benelli Breast Lift offers a minimally invasive option for women seeking moderate firming, lifting, and reshaping of their breasts with minimal scarring. While it has several advantages, including minimal scarring, areola reshaping, and preservation of nipple sensation, it also has limitations, such as providing a limited lift and potential for areola distortion. As with any surgical procedure, it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the best approach based on individual anatomy, aesthetic goals, and overall health.

By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of the Benelli Breast Lift, patients can make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes for their breast enhancement journey.

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