Breast Augmentation Areolar Incision

The areola (nipple) breast augmentation incision is a popular choice among breast implants incision sites because of its camouflaged scar. Breast surgeons also prefer the ability to better manipulate breast implants when using areola breast implant incisions.

Areola (Nipple) Breast Implant Incisions

Along with inframammary (crease) breast implant incisions, the areola breast augmentation incision (sometimes referred to as the peri-areolar technique) is currently one of the most widely used methods for placing breast implants. In this technique, an incision is made at the edge of the areola – the pigmented area of skin that surrounds the nipple. The incision is made on the edge, where the lighter breast tissue meets the darker tissue, so that the scar will blend in. Protective "sleeves" are utilized when inserting the breast implants through nipple incision sites in order to protect the breast ducts.

Advantages of Areola Incision

• An areola breast augmentation incision leaves a small scar that tends to heal well, concealing it from easy detection.
• Through this type of incision, the surgeon can work close to the breast, allowing for easier placement of breast implants. Using the areola or crease breast implants incision sites makes it possible for the plastic surgeon to place the breast implants in various positions in reference to the chest muscle.
• The areola incision is commonly used when breast lift (mastopexy) and implant placement procedures are combined.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view more breast augmentation before and after photos.

Photo credit: Dr. Brian Kobienia

Disadvantages of Areola Incision

• If scars do not heal properly, they may be noticeable, since they are situated right in the center of the breasts.
• When placing the implant in the partial or complete sub-muscular position, the muscles and connective tissue must be separated. This trauma results in heightened post-operative discomfort.
• Potential loss of sensation is a possibility. However, this risk is only slightly greater with areola breast implant incisions than with other breast implants incision sites.
• Complications, such as the harboring of bacteria, can arise if either of the breast implants comes into contact with the breast ducts. The possibility of this complication increases if the breast surgeon does not use the protective sleeve when using areola breast implant incisions.

A vast majority of women who choose areola breast implant incisions are very happy with their results, however.

Alternative Breast Implant Incision Sites

For patients who want breast augmentation, but who are not interested in areola breast implant incisions, there are alternative breast implants incision sites, including:

• inframammary (crease) breast augmentation incisions
• underarm / armpit breast implants incision sites
• navel breast implant incisions

Each of the breast implants incision sites has benefits and potential complications linked to the procedure. A cosmetic surgeon can discuss these issues in more detail and help you decide which of the breast implants incisions sites will meet your needs.

Find a Surgeon near You through DocShop

The areola breast augmentation incision is just one choice among several breast implants incision sites. When you are ready to have breast enlargement surgery, it is best to discuss the various breast implant incisions, placement options, and types of breast implants with a qualified breast surgeon. It is important to find a cosmetic surgeon in your local area with whom you feel comfortable. Because of this, you may wish to speak with several surgeons before selecting one to perform your breast augmentation surgery.