What is the maximum CC's for silicone implants through an areola incision? (Photo)

There is no such thing as too large for
you. You in fact have a perception of what you want to look like.
The surgeon cannot tell you what you like. It is as ridiculous as
them telling you what your favorite color is or picking out your new car for you.
They can guide you, but if your perception and their rigid,
non-scientific approach don't mesh, find another surgeon.The most sophisticated approach to
breast augmentation is through the armpit with a surgical camera (transaxillary
endoscopic). Using this modern approach the space can be crafted under direct
vision, with virtually no bleeding and no postoperative bruising. Most
importantly, the shape of the breast is meticulously created. The other, older
methods of insertion are technologically less advanced. Both silicone and
saline implants can be placed through the armpit by a surgeon with skill and
experience using this approach. The incision in the crease is the oldest method
of placing the implants and puts a scar directly on the breast.

A round implant would be a better
choice because they move more like breasts. The anatomic implants have a
textured surface which makes them feel very unnatural. In addition, there is no
benefit to anatomical. There is an X-Ray study that shows the implants from the
side at 6 months. Standing, the round and the antomical implants have the same
profile. When you lie down however, the anatomical implants do not change,
which is unnatural. A round implant will change when you lie down, like a natural
breast would.

HP implants, which are a more modern
shape than moderate profile implants, fit most women better. They have a more
appropriate base diameter and can be made to look very natural or very
augmented, depending on where in the range the implants are filled to achieve a
particular volume. High profile implants are the first choice in my opinion. I
rarely find an indication to use moderate or moderate plus implants. The
subtlety in the final outcome is not achieved by which profile implant is used,
it is determined by the skill in the creation of the pocket, the choice of
volume, and where in the range the implant is filled.

There
are many advantages to sub muscular dual plane placement and very many
disadvantages to sub glandular placement. I would see no indication to do
anything but sub muscular dual plane. Subglandular silicone implant
placement is the historical approach to this surgery, and was widely used in
the 1960's. The implant edges are more visible, the risk of rippling is
higher, the implant is in contact with the non-sterile breast tissue so the
risk of infection and capsular contracture is higher. The interface
between the breast tissue and the muscle is blurred so the implant interferes
with mammography more than sub muscular placement. The blood supply
surrounding the implant is worse so the risk of capsular contracture is higher.
The support for the implant is less so there is more long term shape
abnormalities and sagging. The look of a sub glandular implant is much
less appealing than a sub muscular implant. The placement of sub
glandular implants makes any subsequent revision surgeries more complicated and
less successful. There are no advantages to sub glandular implant
placement.

The choice between saline and silicone
is one that requires a complex discussion of all of the advantages and
disadvantages of both implants. The issues to be considered are safety,
density, mobility, rippling, rupture rate, consequences of rupture, detection
of rupture, need for follow-up care, cost of follow-up, appearance, feel,
sensation of heaviness, radio-density, mammograms, and costs, among other
things. There are advantages and disadvantages of both products. The decision
will ultimately be up to you based on what is appropriate for your particular
situation. Beautiful results can be obtained with either implant.

The best way to determine the size that
fits your personal perception of the perfect breast is to try on sizers. This
way you can see how they fit on you, how they add to your current volume, and
whether they fit your frame. Although the surgeon can guide you, only you will
be able to tell what is the right size. Try on sizers. Measuring a diameter and
then telling the patient what volume they can have (in high, moderate or
moderate plus implants) in my mind is backwards. The patients should be allowed
to choose the volume. Then the surgeon carefully considers the base diameter,
projection, profile, manufacturer, and fill material that will achieve the
patients goals of size as well as qualitative look (natural, intermediate, or
bold upper pole fullness or projection), all the while taking into consideration
the patient's anatomic features that will affect the outcome. The experience of
the surgeon and the degree to which they explain the options to you is of
utmost importance. The subtlety in the final outcome is not achieved by which
profile implant is used, it is determined by the skill in the creation of the
pocket, the choice of implant. Don't let the doctor tell you what would look
good on you. They cannot tell what you perceive to be the best size. There is
no maximum. That is up to you.

Dear Ms. Manickuh,Thank you for your story and questions. Unfortunately with out nude photos and a exam of your tissues I can can only comment based your story, however I hope you find my comments helpful.1) depends on the size of your areolae2)400cc will need a 4.5 cm. incision on a stretched areolae3)areolar incisions have a slight higher incidence of internal scar formation (capsular contracture) than inframammary.I recommend that you collect a number of "model" photos of your desired appearance and make several consultative appointments with Plastic Surgeons who are experienced and Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition ideally they are members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery).I wish you my best and success,R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACSDiplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgerywwwimagineplasticsurgery.com4646 Brockton AveRiverside, Ca 92506(951) 686-7600

The periareolar incision can be an excellent choice for breast augmentation.  The primary advantage of this incision is that it can hide well in the pigmented border of the areola for some patients.   The ideal patient has an areola that is large enough to fit the chosen implant, and does not have much of a crease or fold to hide the scar in.  The degree of pigment in the areola tissue relative to the skin is a factor as well.  In my practice I most commonly use this incision choice for a specific type of breast (or if the patient simply prefers it).For most patients it is not my favorite incision, there are a few risks that are increased using this incision as compared to a crease incision.  If the patient produces excellent scars it hides very well in either location.  If the patient does not, having a poor scar around the focal point of the breast can be worse than the same scar hiding in the crease.    There is also an increased risk of capsular contracture, nipple numbness and scar depression leaving an indentation beneath the scar in this location.