Deciding to undergo breast augmentation surgery is the first in a series of very important decisions for patients. They must also decide on the size, material (silicone or saline), placement in front of or behind the pectoral muscles, and profile (the height of the implant as compared to the width) of the breast implants. In addition, they will be asked to help decide upon the technique that Dr. Paul Pin will use to place the implants.

Breast Implant Techniques

There are several techniques for inserting breast implants. The transaxillary technique places implants through an incision made under the armpit. The peri-umbilical technique inserts the implants from the navel. The inframammary technique, which is the most popular technique to place implants, uses an incision made in the inframammary crease (where the bottom of the breast meets the chest wall). Finally, in the peri-areolar technique, the breast implants are inserted through an incision made around the areola (the darkened skin around the nipple).

Peri-areolar Breast Implant Technique Procedure

This approach uses a semi-circular incision made around the bottom half of the areola. Dr. Pin will then create a pocket out of the underlying breast tissue and fat to create room for the implant. This pocket can be placed either behind the breast glands and ducts (subglandular) or behind the chest muscles (submuscular). A subglandular versus subpectoral placement will depend upon the patient and her goals for the procedure. Finally, if the patient has chosen saline implants, they will be filled after placement.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Peri-areolar Technique

Advantages: Perhaps the biggest advantage to the peri-areolar approach to inserting breast implants is that there will be minimal scarring just underneath the areola and nipple. Furthermore, Dr. Pin advises patients who are also considering a breast lift to have it done at the same time as the peri-areolar breast implant procedure, since the incision site can be used for both procedures. Through the areolar incision, the surgeon can provide a small amount of lift to the breasts, and resize the nipples. Another pro of the areolar technique is that the incision can be re-used when revision surgery is performed.

Disadvantages: The biggest disadvantage of using a peri-areolar approach to inserting breast implants is that there is an increased risk of nerve, duct, or gland damage, which may either reduce breast and nipple sensation or cause complete numbness. Women who have small areolas or are having large silicone implants placed may wish to consider another implant placement technique, as the incision will likely not be wide enough to properly insert the implants.

Dr. Pin will discuss each of the implant techniques with the patient, so that they can weigh the pros and the cons of each. Of course, the end goal is for patients to get the look they desire, while at the same time, minimizing risks and improving patient safety. Dr. Pin has the skills to help his patients best achieve this goal.

To schedule a breast augmentation consultation, contact Dr. Pin's practice today.