There are various factors involved when it comes to inserting breast implants during a breast augmentation. Implant placement and incision techniques are crucial components of the procedure. By understanding the various techniques of inserting breast implants, you will be guided in the right direction and may attain the best results possible.
At Athenix Body, we strive to provide you with the most enjoyable, comprehensive experience possible, while yielding the best results. To achieve this goal, we believe in educating you on all aspects of your procedure, from implant placement to incision technique.
Implant Placement: Over or Under the Muscle
Implant placement is an important consideration in the breast augmentation process. Our surgeons will assess your goals and body type in order to determine the ideal technique. There are two main locations where breast implants can be placed, over or under the breast muscle.
Submuscular Placement
Submuscular implants are placed under the pectoral muscle, which act as protection for the implant. If you have thin breast tissue, submuscular placement may be ideal. This placement tends to result in breast implants that are positioned higher than those placed over the muscle and may hold their position for years without fear of sagging or drooping.
Submammary Placement
With submammary, or subglandular placement, the implants are placed above the muscle and behind breast tissue. This technique typically involves implants that are smaller in size or when there is no issue with the skin’s elasticity.
What Are Your Breast Implant Incision Options?
Our physicians will take the time to discuss the best incision options available for you. These options may be based on your plastic surgeon’s advice and dependent on the implant placement, above or under the chest muscle. Other factors, such as implant size and type of implant, can also determine the technique to be utilized. Consider the following as one of your options:
Inframammary Technique
The inframammary technique is one of the most common amongst plastic surgeons. It is performed by inserting the implant under the breast through the skin fold where the breast and chest connect. As a result, there are no visible scars when standing, as the breast tissue covers the incision.
Transaxillary Technique
The transaxillary method involves inserting implants through an incision in the upper breast, next to the fold of the armpit. The incision is almost invisible, even when the arm is raised.
Transumbilical Technique
This technique involves inserting the breast implant through an incision in the navel, and then adjusting it in the breast pocket. There are no incisions made to the breast in this particular technique but this is only an option for some types of saline implants. Remember, the technique used to insert breast implants relies heavily on the type of implant in addition to its placement.
Periareolar Technique
Periareolar is when the incisions are made around the areola, which results in no visible scars. This technique would be used if the implants are to be placed over top of the chest muscle.
Anesthesia
Forms of anesthesia for breast augmentation include local sedation and general anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will determine what the best choice is for you, depending on the implant type and placement.
Prepping for Breast Implant Surgery
Before your surgery, your surgeon may ask you to:
Avoid taking certain anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin, as they can increase the bleeding.
Adjust your current medications.
Avoid smoking.
Obtain a blood test from a certified laboratory.
Your breast augmentation will be performed at a surgical center or hospital, and recovery will take a minimum of a few days. That’s why it’s important you arrange for someone to drive you back home safely.
Breast Implant Aftercare
To ease your recovery, we will provide you with thorough aftercare instructions. We recommend plenty of rest and avoiding sudden movements involving your chest or arms. Heavy weights should also be avoided, however, you should be able to return to normal physical activities within a few weeks.
Count on Athenix Body for Comprehensive Care
To ensure the best results and an outstanding experience, we believe in an all-inclusive approach to all our treatments. There are many options to consider when it comes to breast implants, and we make sure to cover every step in full detail to help you make the best decision prior to treatment.
Contact us today to get started and learn more about your options.