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Breast Augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the world because millions of women want to enjoy a harmonious, sensual and feminine figure. Those who wish to increase their breasts through plastic surgery but have not yet done it usually have concerns about the incision. There are several types of breast augmentation incisions, and each produces a scar. Fortunately, these scars have little external visibility and fade over time.
Breast Augmentation surgery has three traditional incision and insertion options:
- Retropetoral Incision (Armpit)
- Areolar Incision (Nipple)
- Submammary Groove Incision (Beneath the Breasts)
Determining the best incision option for each patient will depend on numerous factors including their unique needs as well as the type and size of implant desired. Ultimately your surgeon will recommend the most effective and safe option for you and your body.
Retropectoral Incision (Armpit)
The Retropectoral route consists of making an incision in the crease of the armpit. The surgeon creates a pocket in the chest wall on both sides. The implant is then placed in the chest pocket and filled with saline.
A Retropectoral incision must be done carefully to avoid the implants being placed too high. It is also possible that the prostheses do not fill the lower part of the breast sufficiently.
At first, the scar of this breast incision appears as a small red line but is only visible if the patient raises their arms completely. In the long term, the scar will typically fade and be less noticeable. Patients feel tightness and tension in the area during the healing process. Stretching exercises can help to relieve this discomfort.
Areolar Incision (Nipple)
This method involves creating an incision in the lower half of the areola. The surgeon inserts the implant through this opening. This does not cause damage to the mammary gland when done correctly. This method is ideal for women with various asymmetries in the breast or those who have sagging breasts. The surgeon can correct various defects from the areolar incision because it allows access to the sub-pectoral plane.
Another advantage of choosing an areolar incision is that it creates a micro-pigmentation which makes the scar almost imperceptible to the eye. As effective as this method is in achieving the desired breast augmentation, it does carry some risks. There have been cases where capsular contracture occurred because the implant came in contact with the mammary gland. To prevent this problem, surgeons take several preventive measures.
Submammary Groove (Beneath the Breasts)
Most plastic surgeons prefer the submammary groove incision for breast augmentation. This is because this method does not generate as many complications compared to other methods and favors the shape of the breasts.
In this method, the surgeon creates an incision in the submammary fold, lifts the pectoral muscle, and places the breast implant. This method does not involve contact with the mammary gland, so there is no risk of the implants becoming encapsulated. It allows full access to the pectoral muscle and breast area.
The main advantage here is that the scar is hidden beneath the natural fall of the breasts. This type of incision is ideal for women who want large implants, those who have small areolas, or those who have slightly sagging breasts.
Overview
When it comes to Breast Augmentation, it is essential to stay informed and consult a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon.
Interested in learning more about Breast Augmentation surgery? Get in touch today to book your complimentary consultation with Dr. Castrellón.
Frequently Ask Questions
After the first two weeks, approach physical intimacy carefully and slowly. When having sex after breast augmentation, avoid manipulation of the breasts or movements than may cause you or your partner to disrupt the placement of the implant for around six weeks.
Immediately after your breast augmentation, you can expect your breasts to be swollen, have a “tight” appearance, and sit higher on your chest. This is all normal and expected.
Refrain from getting your breasts wet – either in a bath, shower or pool, for the first weeks after your surgery. Don’t smoke. Smoking negatively impacts your body’s ability to heal after a surgery. Don’t wear an underwire bra, which can not only be painful but also prevent your breast implants from settling properly.
Pain is typically at its worst two to three days after surgery, and all discomfort should subside by two weeks after surgery.
During this first week let your body heal by using your pain medication and avoiding lifting, pushing, or pulling. In addition, your breasts will look swollen and feel tight. This typically worsens over the first 2-3 days, stabilizes and then starts to go down between the 1st and 2nd week after surgery.
