Breast Implant Surgery Incision Options

Serving San Francisco, San Jose, & Walnut Creek, California

One of the primary concerns you might have when undergoing breast augmentation surgery is where the incision is and if it will result in scarring. All breast augmentation procedures will produce some amount of scar tissue. With a highly qualified breast surgeon, instances of scarring are greatly reduced. During your consultation, you will discuss incision options to determine what will work best for you.

There are several different types of incisions based on where the incisions are made.

Inframammary

The most common incision used is called the inframammary incision. A small incision is made under the breast tissue in the crease where a scar will be as noticeable. The incision is approximately 3 to 4 centimeters long for saline implants, and may be slightly larger for silicone implants. This incision allows for the better preparation of the breast pocket and positioning of the breast implant.

Areola

This method may be used in an attempt to minimize scarring. The incision is made in the areola, the darker pigmented area around the nipple. It is more difficult to dissect the underlying breast tissue to make a pocket for the implant from the areola incision. The surgeon must take care to avoid the fourth intercostals nerve, which supplies sensation to the nipple and areola.

Transaxillary

Using this approach, the doctor makes an incision in the axilla, which is the under are area. Scarring is less obvious using this method unless you were to raise your arm and wear open sleeves. Dissecting the breast tissue to make an adequate pocket for the implant is more difficult using this method. It is also more difficult to manipulate the implants to ensure symmetry.

Periumbilical

This incision is the rarest and involves placing the implants through the umbilical area. Needless to say, it is difficult to place the implant properly especially with saline implants that are filled after they are placed.

Placement

In addition to the type of incision, you and Breast Surgeon Dr. Weil will need to decide wear to place the implant. There are two placements available.

• Subglandular – This is the most common and, for many women, provides the most natural look and feel. Since this is wear the normal breast tissue resides, many physicians feel this is where the implant should go.
• Submuscular – This placement method puts the implant behind the pectoral muscle, which is located behind the breast. This placement helps prevent a rippling effect with saline implants, but requires cutting through additional tissue, which can result in more pain.

To find out more about breast implant surgery visit our breast augmentation frequently asked questions page. Please contact our breast surgeon to schedule a complimentary breast augmentation consultation today.