Augmentation of the minimally ptotic breast.

A method for augmenting the minimally ptotic breast is presented that utilizes a superiorly located semicircumareolar incision. Access to the retromammary space is provided by a radial incision through the thinned portion of the breast beginning at the superior pole of the areola. The inferior pole of the breast, with its highly vascular connections to the pectoral fascia and sensory innervation to the nipple, is avoided. Up to 3 cm of ptosis correction can be accomplished by the excision of supraareolar skin without producing distortion of the areolar configuration or scar hypertrophy.