Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed today, designed to enhance the size, shape, and overall appearance of the breasts. Whether you are looking to restore volume lost after pregnancy, achieve better symmetry, or simply boost your self-confidence, breast augmentation offers a customizable solution. The procedure typically involves the placement of breast implants, which can be filled with either saline or silicone gel, each offering unique benefits depending on your goals and preferences.
Choosing the right type of breast implant and the best approach for your body is a highly personal decision, and it’s essential to work closely with an experienced plastic surgeon. Your surgeon will guide you through the available options, helping you select the implant type, size, and surgical technique that will best achieve your desired results while prioritizing your safety and satisfaction.
Breast Augmentation Incision Options
There are several types of breast augmentation incisions that can be used during a breast augmentation procedure. There are many factors that influence the decision, including incision location, implant type, and patient anatomy. One of the important decisions is where to place the incision for insertion of the implants. There are three primary options, and each incision option has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. It is important to understand the pros and cons of each incision location to make the best choice for your procedure. These breast augmentation incision options allow for a personalized approach based on your goals and needs.
Incision Location
Inframammary Incision
This incision, also known as the inframammary fold incision or breast fold incision, is located underneath the breast in the breast crease. The inframammary fold is the natural crease where the breast meets the rib cage. The surgeon makes the incision along the inframammary fold to access the chest muscle for implant placement. Inframammary incisions allow for placement of the implant both above and underneath the chest muscles and can be used for both saline and silicone implants. Scarring is usually hidden in the breast crease or underneath a bra or bathing suit top.
Pros:
- May allow for more control when creating the pocket for the implant
- Can be used to place silicone or saline implants
- Primary advantage: allows the surgeon to better control bleeding during surgery
- Suitable for saline or silicone implants, and most women find the scar is well concealed in the natural fold
Cons:
- Scarring may be more visible with this incision location
- Inframammary incision typically does not affect nipple sensation
- Potential need for revision surgery; this incision provides easy access for such procedures
Transaxillary Incision
Transaxillary incisions, also known as the trans axillary incision or armpit incision, are made in the armpit, and a special instrument called an endoscope is used to help the surgeon place the implant in the proper location. The trans axillary incision is made in the natural fold of the armpit, leaving the breasts untouched by scars. The incision may be used to place both saline and smaller silicone implants, although scarring may be more visible with the larger incision needed for silicone implants.
Pros:
- No visible scarring on the breast
- Leaves the breasts untouched and unscarred
Cons:
- Not as easy to place the implant
- Does not work well for larger silicone implant
- May not work as well with sagging or tuberous breasts
Periareolar Incision
This incision, also known as periareolar incisions, is placed around the border of the areola, where visible scarring will be minimal after the procedure. The incision is made around the nipple, typically along the lower half of the areola, allowing access to create a pocket for the implant. This incision may also be used for both saline and silicone implants. It is commonly recommended for patients who will be combining a breast lift with the breast augmentation procedure.
Pros:
- May be associated with less scarring in patient’s with certain skin types
- Can place either silicone or saline implants
Cons:
- Greater likelihood of loss of nipple sensation or
- More likely to have difficulties breastfeeding after surgery
- Slightly higher risk of infection and capsular contracture
- Incision may sever milk ducts, potentially impacting breastfeeding
- Not suitable for women with small nipples, as the incision can be more complicated and may affect nipple sensation and breastfeeding
Breast Implant Placement
The placement of your breast implant is a key factor in achieving natural-looking and long-lasting results from your breast augmentation surgery. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will discuss the different options for implant placement, which generally include positioning the breast implant either above or below the pectoral muscle.
The choice between these options depends on several factors, such as your body type, the amount of natural breast tissue you have, and your desired outcome. Many plastic surgeons favor the inframammary incision, which is made discreetly in the crease where the breast meets the chest wall, as it provides excellent access for precise implant placement and typically results in a barely noticeable scar.
Careful consideration of implant placement and incision type ensures that your breast augmentation not only enhances your appearance but also aligns with your lifestyle and future needs.
Schedule a Consultation
Just like the decision to have breast augmentation, placement of the incisions during the procedure is a highly personal decision. We take the time to explain all of your options to you, while making recommendations on the best choices for your needs. To learn more about breast augmentation or other plastic surgery procedures we offer, contact Dr. Andrews at 319-220-4644.
