Submuscular augmentation mammaplasty using a perinipple incision

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Breast Augmentation

Background:

• The periareolar approach for submuscular augmentation mammaplasty can result in widened scars and distortion of the areolar-skin junction.
• Alternative incision techniques are needed to improve aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate the outcomes of submuscular augmentation mammaplasty using a perinipple incision with muscle preservation.
• To assess the cosmetic results, complication rates, and patient-reported pain associated with this technique.

Main Methods:

• Submuscular augmentation mammaplasty was performed via a perinipple incision with muscle preservation techniques.
• Implants (175-325 mL) were introduced using a no-touch or minimal-touch technique.
• Overfilling of implants was utilized in select cases to minimize palpability.

Main Results:

• 306 patients underwent the procedure between August 2000 and December 2002.
• Complications included rippling (11 patients), partial capsulectomy (7 patients), and scar revision due to areola flap skin slough (17 patients).
• Pain was markedly reduced compared to the axillary approach, and scars were generally well-hidden.

Conclusions:

• The perinipple incision provides a less visible scar, particularly for patients with ill-defined areolar borders.
• This technique preserves the normal skin-areola junction, achieving cosmetically successful outcomes.
• It offers a comparable operative field to the periareolar incision with reduced postoperative pain.