Periareolar Cardiac Surgery in Patients With Breast Implants: How to Do It.

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery has progressed from small thoracotomies to endoscopic and robotic surgeries. Here we present a periareolar approach in patients with breast implants. This technique involves both cardiac and plastic surgeons in response to a more cosmetically conscious population along with the benefits of avoiding the sternum. In elective cases, myxoma removals, atrial septal defect closures, and mitral valve surgeries can be performed in patients with previous breast prosthesis using a periareolar technique.