What is the healing time for periareolar incision vs inframammary?

Thank you for your question. The healing time, meaning your time to get back to full activity, will not vary significantly based on the approach selected. Deciding upon periareolar versus inframammary incision should be based on where you want the scar located, the size of the areola, and the breast shape itself. Certain breast shapes, such as a constricted breast, may lend itself to better correction via a periareolar approach. In general, the periareolar incision has a slightly higher chance of affecting nipple sensation as well as a higher risk of capsular contracture. I would discuss these concerns with your surgeon in order to make the best decision possible. Best regards.

When deciding between the periareolar or inframammary incision, the most crucial factor is which option is best suited to your needs. A board-certified plastic surgeon is best equipped to advise you on this matter. Because you’re going on vacation seven weeks after your breast augmentation, remember not to submerge your breasts in water until your incisions have fully healed. It’s also important to protect your incisions from sun exposure to prevent scarring or further complications. Best of luck to you!

The healing time for the incision itself is not the key issue.  Your surgeon's recommendations for post-op restrictions are based on the overall healing internally.  Some surgeons (myself included) feel that 3 - 4 weeks of restricted activity for the chest and chest muscles is the safest course.  Please check with your surgeon regarding these issues and your travel plans.

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.

Hello,Your incision should be long healed by then, though I advise my patients not to tan their scars for at least a year as this can cause permanent darkening. Talk with your Plastic Surgeon about expectations for healing.All the best

You can expect that the healing time for an inframammary incision versus a peri areolar incision would be about the same. Therefore, this is not usually part of the decision when considering the two approaches.

Healing time doesn't really change with the incision type. The length of time you're describing between surgery and your trip should probably be fine for there to be no issues. Your scars will likely still be visible at that point however. Best of luck! 

Hello,  the healing time for any breast incision is usually similar.  It takes a few weeks for a wound to be securely healed then around 6 weeks the scar tissue starts to gradually mature over the next 12-18 months.

Hi and thanks for posting your question!Both IMF and periareolar incisions heal at the same rate. Your travel arrangements should allow for plenty of time to recover after your operation. Best wishes

The actual recovery from either approach is the same. The decision of one over the other has to do with many factors, including surgeon experience, rates of altered nipple sensibility, capsular contracture rates,size of the implant being considered, and baseline breast anatomy. Typically, most surgeons in this country use an IMF incision. Studies have shown that there is a lower chance of altered nipple sensibility and capsular contraction rates with the IMF approach. Also, in the event that another procedure is required for any reason, the surgeon can usually go back through the same scar as opposed to creating a second scar if a previous periareolar approach was used. I recommend being seen by a board certified plastic surgeon who performs many breast and body procedures to examine you and discuss your goals and objectives.Best wishes,Dr, Ravi Somayazula