Breast implant surgery, which enhances or restores the appearance of a woman’s breasts, is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures. Saline, silicone or gummy bear implants are inserted in the breast pocket through incisions. Based on the patient’s preferences and goals, anatomic considerations, physiological constraints, and type of implant, breast augmentation is performed using different types of incisions. Let’s look at various incision sites for breast implants:
- Under the Arm (Transaxillary Incision): In this method, the incision is made in the skin crease in the armpit and so there is no scarring in the breast. The length and appearance of the scar would vary depending on the shape of your body and the size of the breast implant. The surgeon will use an endoscope to place the implant in the proper position.
- Under the Breast (Inframammary Incision): The incision is placed in the crease or the natural folds under the breast and so remains well hidden. As the surgeon can exercise better control over the placement, the results are more likely to be consistent and symmetric.
- Around the Nipple (Periareolar Incision): In this method, the incision is made around the outline of the areola. This incision heals well and the scar is not easily seen. As the surgeon is working in close proximity to the breast, it allows for more control and precision in placement.
- Through the Belly Button (Transumbilical Incision): The incision is made in the belly button or umbilical channel and the surgeon uses an endoscope for implant placement. There are no scars in the breasts. This method also offers benefits such as less recovery pain, less post-surgical wound care and reduced down-time.
Breast augmentation incisions are always placed in locations that are not easily seen so that any scarring is hardly noticeable. Each incision type has both advantages and shortcomings. Your breast surgeon will help you choose the incision that is best for you and provide optimal results.