The various breast implant incision options may all seem the same when you first start to research them. But you’ll soon find that they each have their own pros and cons.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the different breast implant incision types for breast augmentation. As a primer, there are three main options available: the inframammary incision, the periareolar incision, and the transaxillary incision. Rarely, a TUBA (trans umbilical breast augmentation) may be performed, but we don’t routinely include this as a regular option.
The inframammary incision is usually chosen. This incision runs along the crease beneath the breast (known as the inframammary crease). However, perioareolar incisions (running around the edge of the areola) and transaxillary incisions (placed in the armpit) may also be performed.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.
Inframmamary Incision
An inframammary incision is made in the crease or fold beneath each breast, where the breast meets the chest wall.
This type of incision is a popular choice for breast augmentation surgery because it allows direct access to the breast tissue and provides your surgeon with good control during the placement of either saline or silicone implants.
Periareolar Incision
A periareolar incision is made around the outer edge of each areola. This type of breast implant nipple incision allows for discreet scarring as it blends with the color transition between the areola and the breast skin.
Surgeons often choose this incision for its aesthetic benefits and the ease of accessing the breast tissue. It is commonly used in breast augmentation surgeries and can also be suitable for breast lift procedures.
Transaxillary Incision
A transaxillary incision is made in the natural crease of the underarm, also known as the axilla. This type of incision is usually chosen by patients who prefer to avoid any visible scarring on the breasts. Despite this benefit, however, the transaxillary approach can have limitations depending on the size and type of implants used and the patient’s anatomy.
What Is a Trans Umbilical Breast Augmentation?
A trans umbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) is a relatively rare technique used for breast implant placement. In a TUBA procedure, the breast implants are inserted through an incision made in the navel (belly button) rather than through incisions on or near the breast. This approach is less commonly performed.
What Implant Incision Location Is Best?
It really depends on your unique anatomy and goals, but for most patients, plastic surgeons recommend and prefer the inframammary incision.
This incision allows the incisions to be concealed along the breast creases. This makes them hardly noticeable, and the patient is able to feel more comfortable knowing they don’t have extremely noticeable scars. It also allows for easy and precise implant placement and retains the structure of the nipple and areola, which can help avoid rare but possible complications sometimes related to nipple sensation.
Other Factors to Consider When Selecting Breast Implants
Breast Implant Material
When it comes to material, there are three types of breast implants: saline implants, silicone breast implants, and gummy bear implants. All types can be used with a breast augmentation procedure to supplement the patient’s own breast tissue and increase volume.
Saline implants tend to be less expensive and are immediately visible if they rupture. Some say they are not as natural as silicone or gummy bear implants, which retain their sturdy shape better and may feel more natural. One downside to these latter two options is that they aren’t immediately noticeable if a rupture occurs, which may cause rare but potential complications.
Breast Implant Sizes
When considering breast implants, size is a pivotal factor. It’s crucial to align your implant size with your body proportions and aesthetic goals. Naturally, small breast implants can create a subtle enhancement, while larger sizes offer a more noticeable change.
Breast Implant Shapes
There are two basic breast implant shapes: round and teardrop (anatomical). Round implants provide even fullness in both the upper and lower breast areas, giving a curvaceous look.
Teardrop implants mimic the natural breast contour, with more projection and fullness at the bottom. They are also textured so that they do not rotate.
Breast Implant Textures
Implants are available smooth or textured. Smooth implants have a polished surface that allows them to move freely within the breast pocket. Textured implants have a rougher surface, which can reduce the risk of implant rotation or displacement.
Breast Implant Profiles
Breast implant profiles determine how much an implant projects from the chest wall. There are various profile options, including low, moderate, high, and extra high. Low-profile implants provide a subtle projection, suitable for a natural appearance, while high-profile implants offer a more pronounced and “perky” look.
FAQ: Breast Implant Incisions
Where is the incision for a breast implant surgery located?
Patients and surgeons will decide the location of augmentation incisions based on the patient’s anatomy and breast implant choice, the size and shape of the implant, and other factors. Incisions may be located beneath the breast in the breast crease, in the armpit area, or around the edge of the areola.
How big are breast augmentation incisions typically?
It depends on the patient, the breast augmentation incision placement, and the size and shape of the implant. Usually, implant incisions are around 3 cm to 5 cm.
What is the breast implant incision healing process?
At the beginning, right after surgery, your breast augmentation incision will be red and the area around it swollen. Bandages will cover your incisions, and you should treat the areas carefully. Your surgeon will explain how to care for them. Most implant incisions will be closed up after several weeks.
What is the most common breast implant incision placement during breast augmentation surgery?
Most patients will have their incisions located beneath their breasts in the inframammary folds (breast creases).
How do you know if your breast implant incision is infected?
Signs of a breast implant incision infection may include redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, and increased pain at the incision site. If you suspect an infection, consult your surgeon promptly.
You can also search for “breast implant incision infection pictures” online for visual references to compare your incision site with typical signs of infection. Still, always seek professional medical advice for an accurate diagnosis.
Set Up a Consultation With Dr. Ramanadham
Deciding what breast implant incision placement will be best for you and your surgery may seem daunting. Fortunately, an experienced plastic surgeon can guide you as you plan for your procedure.
Dr. Smita Ramanadham is a top female board certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast enhancement surgery and other procedures such as tummy tucks, breast lifts, and liposuction. Receive the best possible care and treatment by choosing Dr. Ramanadham and her experienced team for your surgical procedure.
At your consultation, you can review breast implants before and after photos and provide Dr. Ramanadham with a description of your goals and desires for surgery. We want you to have the breasts and profile you’ve always dreamed of. Call today to schedule your consultation.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/procedure/