Our Summary

This research paper focuses on understanding the changes in blood supply to the nipple and areola (referred to as the NAC) after breast augmentation surgery, using advanced imaging technology.

To do this, the researchers took high-quality MRI scans of 10 women who had previously had their breasts enlarged with implants. They studied the blood vessels supplying the NAC and compared these scans with those of 15 women who had not had any breast surgery.

They found that the size of the blood vessels on the inside (medial) of the breast did not change after augmentation. However, the vessels on the outside (lateral) of the breast were about 20% larger in the women who had implants.

Additionally, they noticed an increase in the distance between the nipple and the blood vessels in both the medial and lateral parts of the breast. This suggests that the breast implants cause the tissue to stretch, effectively increasing the length of these vessels.

Despite these changes, the overall blood supply to the NAC was not significantly affected in women with breast implants.

In summary, this study provides important insights into how breast augmentation can affect the blood supply to the nipple and areola, which could help improve surgical techniques and reduce the risk of complications such as necrosis (death of tissue due to lack of blood supply).

FAQs

  1. How does breast augmentation surgery affect blood supply to the nipple and areola?
  2. Does the size of the blood vessels change after breast augmentation?
  3. Can breast implants cause the tissue to stretch, and how does this affect the blood vessels?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast augmentation is to carefully follow post-operative instructions, including avoiding strenuous activities and wearing a supportive bra as recommended. This can help promote proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. It’s also important to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast augmentation surgery are those who are unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of their breasts. This includes:

  1. Women who have naturally small breasts and desire a larger cup size.
  2. Women who have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
  3. Women who have asymmetrical breasts and want to achieve a more balanced appearance.
  4. Women who have undergone mastectomy for breast cancer treatment and want to restore their breasts.

It is important for patients considering breast augmentation to have realistic expectations and to understand the risks and potential complications associated with the surgery. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine if breast augmentation is the right option for each individual patient.

Timeline

Before breast augmentation:

  1. Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations for the procedure.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough physical examination and medical history evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.
  3. Patient chooses the size, shape, and type of implants to be used in the surgery.
  4. Patient receives pre-operative instructions and guidelines for preparing for the surgery, including avoiding certain medications and foods.
  5. Patient undergoes breast augmentation surgery, which typically takes a few hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  6. Patient experiences post-operative pain, swelling, and bruising, and is given pain medication and instructions for post-operative care.
  7. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.

After breast augmentation:

  1. Patient experiences initial discomfort and swelling in the breasts, which gradually subsides over the following weeks.
  2. Patient is advised to wear a supportive bra and avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time to aid in healing.
  3. Patient may notice changes in the appearance and feel of their breasts as they continue to heal and settle into their final shape.
  4. Patient may undergo additional procedures, such as nipple or areola reconstruction, if desired.
  5. Patient can enjoy the results of their breast augmentation, with improved breast size, shape, and overall appearance.
  6. Patient follows up with the surgeon for long-term monitoring and maintenance of their breast implants, including regular mammograms and screenings for any complications.
  7. Patient may consider future revisions or replacements of their breast implants as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will breast augmentation surgery affect the blood supply to my nipple and areola?

  2. What are the potential risks or complications related to changes in blood supply after breast augmentation?

  3. How will you ensure that the blood supply to my nipple and areola is preserved during the surgery?

  4. Are there any specific precautions or post-operative care instructions I should follow to protect the blood supply to my nipple and areola?

  5. Will changes in blood supply affect the sensation or appearance of my nipple and areola after surgery?

  6. How often will I need to have follow-up appointments to monitor the blood supply to my nipple and areola after breast augmentation?

  7. Are there any specific activities or lifestyle factors that could impact the blood supply to my nipple and areola post-surgery?

  8. How will you address any concerns or complications related to changes in blood supply to my nipple and areola after breast augmentation?

  9. Can you provide more information or resources for me to learn about the impact of breast augmentation on blood supply to the nipple and areola?

  10. Are there any additional imaging tests or evaluations that can be done to assess the blood supply to my nipple and areola before and after breast augmentation surgery?

Reference

Authors: Teng E, Broer PN, Heidekrueger PI, Forte AJ, Lentz R, Durand M, Raghu M, Kwei SL. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2016 Nov;36(10):1133-1140. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjw139. Epub 2016 Sep 13. PMID: 27625032