Breast Augmentation Incision Placement Options
How much thought have you given to your breast augmentation incision placement?
For many women, this is one of the last things they’re thinking about when considering breast augmentation surgery. Still, incision location is a critical decision that you should spend some time on. If you are unfamiliar with your options, this article is for you.
Below, we’ll go over your main breast augmentation incision location options and their benefits and drawbacks. Then, we’ll discuss a bit more about potential incision complications after your surgery and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about breast augmentation incision placement.
Breast Augmentation Incision Options: Choosing the Right Approach
When considering a breast augmentation procedure, one crucial decision to make is the type of incision that will be used with your breast implant choice. Different incision techniques offer unique advantages and considerations. Here are the main options you’ll have to choose from:
Inframammary Incision
The inframammary incision is made along the natural crease beneath the breast. This incision type allows for precise breast implant placement and minimal interference with breast tissue.
Who Is This a Good Option For?
Inframammary incisions are an excellent choice for those seeking breast augmentation with minimal scarring visibility. This incision offers easy access for the surgeon to create the desired pocket for the saline or silicone implants (or any of the types of breast implants).
Benefits:
– Concealed Scarring: The incision is hidden within the breast crease, making it less visible.
– Precise Placement: Surgeons have better control over implant positioning.
– Reduced Risk: Lower risk of damage to milk ducts and nerves.
Drawbacks:
– Scar Concerns: While hidden, there may still be visible scarring for some individuals.
– Limited Size: Smaller incisions may limit your implant size options.
Periareolar Incision
The periareolar incision is made around the edge of the areola, which is the pigmented skin surrounding each nipple. This incision type allows for direct access to the breast tissue and implant placement.
Who Is This a Good Option For?
Periareolar incisions are suitable for individuals who desire a subtler scar and have well-defined areolas. It’s often chosen when combined with breast lift procedures.
Benefits:
– Camouflaged Scarring: Scarring blends with the natural transition between the areola and breast skin.
– Direct Access: Surgeons can precisely create the implant pocket and adjust nipple position if necessary.
Drawbacks:
– Potential Sensitivity Changes: There is a risk of altered nipple sensation, though this is extremely rare.
– Limited Areola Size: Individuals with small areolas may have limited implant size options.
Transaxillary Incision
The transaxillary incision is made in the underarm area. This incision type offers a unique approach, allowing implant placement through a remote site from the breast itself.
Who Is This a Good Option For?
Transaxillary incisions are preferred by individuals who want to avoid breast scarring altogether.
Benefits:
– No Breast Scarring: The incision is hidden in the underarm area, leaving no visible breast scars.
Drawbacks:
– Limited Access: It may be challenging to correct implant placement issues if they arise.
– Additional Scarring Risk: While the scar is hidden, there may still be concerns about its appearance in the underarm area.
Which Incision Is Best for Breast Augmentation?
It’s different for everyone. This choice will depend on your goals, anatomy, the size of your intended implants, and what your surgeon says. Be sure to discuss your options thoroughly with your plastic surgeon to make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences.
Potential Breast Augmentation Incision Complications
There are certain side effects that are completely normal during your breast augmentation surgery incision healing. These include swelling, bruising, slight discomfort, changes in sensation, and tightness. However, in rare cases, patients may experience complications during their recovery time for breast implants.
Again, this is rare, especially when patients do their utmost to follow their surgeon’s guidelines during recovery. But as with any surgery, complications are always possible and may arise, and it’s important to know what to look for.
Problem: Breast Augmentation Incision Opening Up
One common concern for individuals getting breast implants is the fear of incision opening. While it’s a rare occurrence, it can be distressing.
To minimize this risk, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Sieber’s post-operative care instructions diligently, including avoiding strenuous activities and keeping the incision site clean and protected. Additionally, maintaining regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon ensures any potential issues are promptly addressed.
Problem: Breast Augmentation Incision Pain Immediately After Surgery
Experiencing pain at the incision site immediately after breast augmentation surgery is normal. It’s a natural response to the surgical procedure. Patients are typically prescribed pain medications to manage this discomfort during the first few days.
It’s essential to take these medications as directed and to communicate any excessive or prolonged pain with your surgeon as this could be a sign of complications.
Problem: Incision Pain 2 Weeks After Breast Augmentation
Around two weeks post-surgery, some patients may still experience discomfort or pain at the incision site. This can be a normal part of the healing process, and it varies from person to person.
At the same time, it’s crucial to contact Dr. Sieber if you have concerns. If the pain worsens or becomes increasingly concerning after the initial healing period, it’s wise to have your incisions examined.
FAQ: Breast Augmentation Incisions
What is the most common incision for breast augmentation surgery?
The most common incision for breast enhancement surgery with implants is the inframammary incision. This incision can be used with a saline implant or silicone breast implants and is made along the natural crease beneath the breast. It is preferred by many surgeons and patients due to its ease of access and ability to hide scarring within the breast fold.
What size is the incision for breast augmentation?
The size of the incision for breast augmentation varies depending on factors such as the type of implant used, the chosen incision placement, your surgeon’s technique, and the individual’s anatomy. Ultimately, your surgeon will determine the appropriate incision size based on your specific needs and surgery choices.
When do incisions heal after breast augmentation?
Many patients inquire about how long for breast augmentation incision to heal. Incisions for breast augmentation typically start to heal within the first few weeks after surgery.
Complete healing can take several months, with scars continuing to improve in appearance over time. It’s important to follow Dr. Sieber’s post-operative care instructions to promote optimal healing and minimize the visibility of scars.
Set Up a Consultation With Dr. Sieber
Dr. David Sieber is a double board certified plastic surgeon, specializing in breast augmentation as well as other breast surgeries such as breast lift surgery, breast lift with implants surgery, breast fat transfer procedures, breast implant removal, breast implant revision, and breast reduction.
If you are considering this procedure and would like to learn more about breast augmentation incision placement or any other aspect of this surgery, give us a call today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Sieber.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/the-five-factors-of-breast-augmentation/
