During a periareolar breast lift procedure an incision is made around the areola. The areola is the brown colored skin surrounding the nipple. Once this incision is made, the surgeon is able to tighten the breast tissue in all directions by removing excess skin. The periareolar breast lift procedure can also enhance breast appearance by reducing the size of the areola and repositioning the nipple. A periareolar breast lift procedure is most appropriate for women with a small degree of breast and/or nipple malposition.

The periareolar breast lift procedure itself is done on an outpatient basis in a hospital, surgical, or medical facility. The procedure takes anywhere between one and four hours and is done with the use of a sedative and general and local anesthesia. Once the periareolar breast lift procedure is complete, the breast area will be wrapped in layers of gauze and secured with an elastic bandage. The patient benefits from the use of a surgical bra for four to six weeks after the periareolar breast lift procedure. Bruising, swelling and discomfort is not uncommon during the first week or two and can be relieved with the help of prescribed pain medications. Stitches are usually removed a week to ten days after the surgery. Numbness may be experienced for up to six months and can sometimes be permanent.