What is Peri-areolar Mastectomy?

Peri-areolar Mastectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest contour. Unlike other methods that may require larger incisions, this technique involves a discreet incision made around the edge of the areola (the pigmented area around the nipple). Through this small incision, the underlying breast tissue and excess fat are carefully removed.

The primary advantage of this method lies in its ability to minimize visible scarring. Because the incision follows the natural border of the areola, any resulting scar often blends seamlessly with the darker skin, making it far less noticeable than linear scars associated with other mastectomy techniques. Furthermore, as the nipple and areola remain attached, there is a higher likelihood of maintaining nipple sensation post-surgery.

  How the Peri-areolar Technique Performs

  The precision of Peri-areolar Mastectomy lies in its methodical execution,     ensuring optimal tissue removal and contouring through a minimal approach.   Here’s a general overview of how this Keyhole Mastectomy is performed at   WIH International Hospital:

  1. Anesthesia & Preparation:

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you are comfortably asleep throughout.

• The surgical area will be meticulously cleaned and sterilized.

  2. Incision Placement:

• Our surgeon makes a circular incision precisely along the outer edge of the areola. This strategic placement is key to minimizing visible scars, allowing them to blend with the natural pigmentation transition.

  3. Breast Tissue Removal:

• Through this discreet incision, specialized instruments are carefully inserted.

• The underlying breast glandular tissue is meticulously dissected and removed. Any excess fatty tissue is also carefully sculpted and removed to achieve the desired flatness.

• The goal is to remove sufficient tissue to create a masculine contour while protecting vital structures and ensuring a smooth transition to the surrounding chest wall.

  4. Chest Contouring & Skin Redraping:

• Once the breast tissue is removed, the remaining skin is allowed to naturally redrape and conform to the new, flatter chest contour. This is why good skin elasticity is a critical criterion for this technique.

• The surgeon carefully sculpts the remaining tissues to achieve optimal chest masculinization, ensuring a natural-looking appearance.

  5. Drains & Closure:

• Small, temporary drains may be placed to remove any excess fluid that accumulates after surgery. These are typically removed within a few days.

• The incision around the areola is meticulously closed with sutures, designed to further minimize scarring and support the healing process.

     This precise process aims for a sculpted, masculine chest with the least         noticeable scarring possible, preserving the nipple and often its sensation.

   Aftercare Instructions & Recovery with a Male      Chest: Your Journey Post-Surgery

       Your recovery after Peri-areolar Mastectomy is a crucial phase that directly impacts your final results. At WIH International Hospital, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and support to ensure a smooth and effective recovery, helping you embrace your new, masculine chest with confidence.

    Immediate Post-Operative Care:

• Compression Garment: You will wake up wearing a compression garment or binder. This is vital to reduce swelling, promote skin adherence to the chest wall, and support your new contour. You’ll typically wear this for several weeks.

• Drains: Small, temporary drains may be placed to remove fluid. Our nursing team will teach you how to care for them, and they are usually removed within a few days.

• Pain Management: Discomfort is normal. We will provide appropriate pain medication to ensure you are comfortable during the initial recovery phase.

     The First Weeks: Healing and Resting:

• Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and raising your arms above shoulder height for several weeks (typically 4-6 weeks) to prevent stress on incisions and aid healing.

• Wound Care: Keep incision sites clean and dry. We will provide specific instructions for dressing changes and wound hygiene.

• Swelling & Bruising: Expect some swelling and bruising, which will gradually subside over several weeks.

• Sleeping Position: It’s often recommended to sleep on your back to avoid pressure on your chest.

Long-Term Recovery & Results

• Scar Management: Once incisions are fully closed, we will advise on scar management techniques (e.g., silicone sheets or gels) to help further minimize their appearance. Remember, scars will fade and soften over months to a year.

• Return to Activity: Gradual return to light activities can begin after a few weeks, with full return to exercise typically cleared by your surgeon after 6-8 weeks, depending on individual healing.

• Final Results: While initial results are visible, the final contour and skin settling can take 3 to 6 months. The resulting male chest will typically be flat, masculine, and proportionate to your body, with scars well-hidden around the areola. Maintaining nipple sensation is a significant advantage for those who qualify for this technique.

      Our team will be with you every step of the way, monitoring your healing and guiding you through your recovery journey to your confident future.