The benefits of breast augmentation are numerous: improved curves, confidence, and symmetry are just a few of the reasons our patients remain satisfied with the procedure. But deciding whether or not to undergo breast augmentation is only the first step. Among other factors, patients must also decide which implant type and surgical technique will be used.

One technique for breast augmentation we offer at our Sydney office is the periareolar incision. This popular method of implant insertion has helped produce great results with few drawbacks. If you are considering augmentation or a similar implant procedure, here’s what you can expect from this procedure.

What Is a Periareolar Incision?

In breast augmentation surgery, there are four possible incision areas through which implants may be inserted. The most common type is an inframammary incision, which is made underneath the breast, near the crease. While this tends to produce good results, it leaves a relatively larger scar that may be more visible, particularly for patients with higher, firmer breasts.

A periareolar incision is the second most common technique, located around the edge of the nipple’s areola. By making a “u” shaped incision under the nipple, the surgeon can easily position an implant while leaving few signs of scarring.

Candidates for the Periareolar Technique

Candidates for a breast augmentation procedure should possess the following:

• A healthy body: Like any plastic surgery, your health with determine the ease of recovery and risk of complication. Patients who are already in good shape with few risk factors are most likely to have the most satisfying results.
• Realistic expectations: Your satisfaction is directly influenced by your expectations. After consulting with your doctor, you should have an accurate understanding of what the procedure can accomplish.
• Physical maturity: Due to health concerns, implants are reserved for women whose breasts are already fully developed. While this differs among patients, the minimum age for any cosmetic surgery is 18.

For periareolar incisions, additional stipulations are added for candidacy. Because the incision is smaller, most patients can only utilize this technique for saline implants. With saline, the implants are filled after insertion, allowing for the relatively small incision. If a patient desires pre-filled silicone implants, additional factors will determine candidacy, including the size of the implants and the patient’s areola.

Benefits of Periareolar Breast Augmentation

This incision technique holds a variety of benefits over alternative incision areas, including:

• Less noticeable scarring: Smaller incisions mean a smaller area of scarring. Moreover, areolar tissue tends to heal more efficiently; scars can be easily concealed during recovery and will be barely noticeable afterward.
• Easy placement: Since implants are inserted directly into the breast tissue, proper placement is rarely an issue. Doctors can easily adjust and position the implants, leading to a successful procedure.
• Can be re–opened if needed: Breast augmentations occasionally require revision surgery, due to patients desiring an alteration or complications such as capsular contracture. Because periareolar incisions are located on the breast, they can be reused for any future revision surgery.

Risks and Drawbacks

All surgeries carry inherent risks, though they can be largely negated through a skilled surgeon and proper care during recovery. Along with temporary side effects of swelling, bruising, and discomfort after surgery, patients should look out for signs of infection. If side effects persist or increase, report any concerns to your doctor, as this may be evidence of a seroma, hematoma, or infection.

Specific to periareolar incisions, some patients have reported a loss of sensation in their nipples, while others experience more difficulty in breast-feeding. However, these side effects are rare.

Learn More about Your Breast Augmentation Options

A breast augmentation requires a good deal of forethought and decisions, all of which can be facilitated through an informative conversation with Dr. Perkins. We encourage you to contact our office with any questions, or to schedule an initial consultation.