This incision is created along the bottom edge of the areola. The scar often blends in completely, so it's a discreet option that's very popular among our Houston clients.
The areola is the pigmented area around the nipple. Also called a periareolar incision, it follows the curve that separates the darker skin of the areola from the remainder of the breast. Through the incision, a pocket is created, either inside the breast or beneath the muscle tissue, into which our plastic surgeon inserts the implant. The implant is then positioned so it is centered in the pocket, behind the nipple.
There are several advantages to a periareolar incision, including:
As with any elective surgery, a good candidate for periareolar breast augmentation should:
This approach involves an incision near the crease beneath the breasts, slightly above where the breast and rib cage meet. It's a very common and effective technique, and often the appropriate method for placing silicone breast implants.
This incision creates a pocket into which our plastic surgeon will insert the implant. The implant is inserted either above or below the muscle. The implant will then be centered in the pocket, behind the nipple.
There are several advantages to an inframammary incision, including the following:
Although the inframammary incision can be reopened for repositioning or removal of an implant, it may create a problem if a change in the size of the breast implant is desired. If larger implants are inserted, the scar may move up on the breasts, where it may become more visible. If smaller implants are inserted, the scar may become visible beneath the fold of the breast.
During your consultation, your doctor will discuss the pros and cons of each for your particular situation.
The three implant locations are as follows:
In subglandular breast augmentation surgery, the implant is positioned behind the breast, but in front of the muscles and fibrous tissues that line the front of the ribs and the wall of the chest.
In partial submuscular breast augmentation surgery, the implant is positioned only partially under the pectoral and other chest muscles; the remainder being positioned behind the breast tissue.
In full submuscular breast augmentation surgery, the implant is positioned behind the breast, as well as all the muscles in the chest. The pectoral muscles, therefore, provide a constant source of massage, which some surgeons believe helps to inhibit the development of a condition called “capsular contracture.” Capsular contracture, the tightening of scar tissue around the implant, can lead to pain and stiffness in the breast, as well as the breast becoming misshapen. This technique is the most demanding to learn, requiring a greater level of training and skill. If you are considering full submuscular placement of implants as an option, along with ensuring that your doctor is a board-certified plastic surgeon, it is imperative that your surgeon is familiar with this more advanced surgical procedure.
As with any elective surgery, a good candidate for inframammary breast augmentation should:
A transaxillary incision is hidden in the armpit. Through that opening, an empty saline implant can be inserted. Once placed, it is then filled to the desired size.
Transaxillary breast augmentation surgery can be performed in two ways:
The method chosen is based on your doctor’s preference. It is a more difficult surgery than either the periareolar or inframammary, as the incision is farther from the breast, so it is important to choose a plastic surgeon highly experienced in this method.
There are several advantages to a transaxillary incision, including the following:
The risks of both nerve damage and lack of symmetry after implant placement are, of course, minimized when you choose our board-certified plastic surgeon, highly experienced in performing the transaxillary technique.
As with any elective surgery, a good candidate for transaxillary breast augmentation should:
Your recovery will proceed better if you plan ahead with some preparatory steps:
Immediately after surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be monitored. Most patients are considered stable for discharge within an hour or so. However, “stable for discharge” does not mean that you will be feeling fine and able just to pick yourself up and go home.
Many patients experience nausea from the anesthesia and may have blurry vision. Most feel weak and tired (they have just had major surgery, after all), and all will have pain or discomfort, swelling and bruising. You will have pain medication to keep you comfortable in the early stages of healing.
Everyone heals differently and at a different rate, and recuperating can vary, based upon the type of incision, and the location and size of the implant. So be sure to follow aftercare instructions exactly.
At Lyos Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Associates, we want our patients to be educated, informed, and confident. Dr. Lyos holds three board certifications and is an exceptionally talented and experienced plastic surgeon and recognized as a premier Houston plastic surgeon. Have questions? Connect with us to discus breast augmentation, and what surgical procedure will be most appropriate for you.
9230 Katy Freeway #420,
Houston, TX 77055
10847 Kuykendahl Rd., Suite 250,
The Woodlands, TX 77382
© Lyos Plastic Surgery & Dermatology Associates. All Rights Reserved.