Our Summary

This study looked at whether the position of the nipple-areola complex (the colored area around the nipple) changes after breast augmentation (surgery to increase breast size). It also investigated if lifting the arms before surgery can help predict where the nipple-areola complex will end up afterwards.

To do this, they measured the distance between different points on the breast in 45 patients, both before surgery and a year afterwards. These measurements were taken with the patients’ arms in different positions.

The results showed that the position of the nipple-areola complex doesn’t really change after breast augmentation. The distance from the notch in the sternum (the bone in the middle of the chest) to the nipple did increase in most patients, but not by much.

The study also found that having the patients lift their arms before surgery doesn’t help in predicting where the nipple-areola complex will be after surgery.

So, in simple terms, breast implants don’t really change the position of the nipple-areola complex, and lifting the arms before surgery doesn’t help to predict where it will end up.

FAQs

  1. Does the position of the nipple-areola complex change after breast augmentation?
  2. Can lifting the arms before surgery help predict the position of the nipple-areola complex after breast augmentation?
  3. Did the distance from the sternum to the nipple increase after breast augmentation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient considering breast augmentation is to have realistic expectations about the outcome. While breast implants can enhance the size and shape of the breasts, they may not significantly change the position of the nipple-areola complex. It’s important to discuss your goals and concerns with your surgeon to ensure you have a clear understanding of what to expect from the procedure. Additionally, follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to promote optimal healing and results.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for breast augmentation are those who are unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of their breasts. This can include women who have naturally small breasts, asymmetrical breasts, or have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. Additionally, patients who have undergone mastectomy for breast cancer or have breast deformities may also be recommended for breast augmentation. Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast augmentation should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome.

Timeline

Before breast augmentation:

  • Patient consults with plastic surgeon to discuss desired size, shape, and type of implants
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and tests
  • Surgery is scheduled and patient is instructed on pre-operative preparations
  • Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia, taking about 1-2 hours
  • Patient is monitored post-operatively in recovery room before being discharged home
  • Patient may experience soreness, swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled for post-operative care and monitoring

After breast augmentation:

  • Patient continues to experience swelling and discomfort, which gradually improves over time
  • Patient is advised to wear a supportive bra and avoid strenuous activities during recovery period
  • Scars begin to fade and incision sites heal over the following weeks to months
  • Patient may experience changes in sensation in the breasts and nipples
  • Final results of breast augmentation, including size, shape, and position of implants, become more apparent as swelling subsides
  • Patient may continue to see plastic surgeon for follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Patient can enjoy the enhanced appearance of their breasts and increased self-confidence.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient may want to ask their doctor about breast augmentation based on this study could include:

  1. Will my nipple-areola complex position change after breast augmentation?
  2. How much can I expect the distance from the notch in the sternum to the nipple to increase after surgery?
  3. Should I be concerned about changes in the position of my nipple-areola complex post-surgery?
  4. Is lifting my arms before surgery a necessary step in predicting the outcome of my nipple-areola complex position?
  5. Are there any specific factors that could affect the position of my nipple-areola complex after breast augmentation surgery?

Reference

Authors: Benito-Ruiz J. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2023 Sep 14;43(10):NP751-NP762. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjad099. PMID: 37042719