Breast Augmenation Incisions: Pros
and Cons
Knowing you desire an enlargement is
only the beginning of your journey. Among
the many things to understand is exactly
where the implants should be inserted
into your body. There are three common
entry points, each with it's own set
of advantages and downsides.
Periareolar
The Periareolar incision is located
on the nipple itself. It is one of the
most common procedures in breast augmentation.
If you are interested in a mastopexy
(breast lift), this incision is the choice
most surgeons will recommend. It works
well with every type of implant and for
both over and under the muscle implant
placement.
The Periareolar incision is made around
the bottom half of the dark circle of
skin surrounding the nipple. The exact
incision line is critical for a satisfactory
result. For the scar to blend properly it must occur
exactly on the edge where the lighter skin meets
the darker skin. If the incision heals within the
areola area, a "smiley face" can occur from the lighter-colored
scar tissue. Surgical tape is placed on the incision
and should not be moved, as it reduces the effects
of gravity pulling on the skin and aids the scar
to heal as a flat, very thin line. A properly healed
scar from a well-placed periareolar incision is barely
visible.
A potential risk factor is the bacteria found in
breast ducts, which can spread germs into the area
holding the implants. Many surgeons use a protective
sleeve to keep the implants from coming in contact
with the breast ducts. This sleeve is not useable
if the implant chosen is pre-filled, as with certain
saline or gel implants, since they cannot be rolled-up
and put in place unfilled.
Inframammary Fold
The inframammary
incision is as popular as the periareolar.
The implant can be placed or removed
above or below the muscle. Since the
implants do not pass through the breast
ducts, the risk of bacterial infection
is greatly reduced. This incision is
a favorite among surgeons because it
gives the surgeon a great deal of control
over the placement of the implant.
The incision is made just above the crease, or inframammary
fold, underneath the breast. This helps prevent the
scar being seen when in a swimsuit or lingerie. Proper
placement is an art-form in itself; the surgeon must
estimate where the incision will sit in relation
to the crease created by the larger, enhanced breast.
A wrong placement higher or lower on the breast will
make the incision visible.
Along with giving the surgeon control
over implant placement, they also favor
this incision for it's use in revision
work. Should you need a revision, the
original location can be revisited. This
means no additional scars that an initial
transaxillary incision would require
and no additional risk of nipple sensitivity
that a periareolar could cause.
A downside to this procedure is if you
decide to substantially change the size
of the implants after surgery. It is
not uncommon after the initial implant
procedure for a patient to wish she were bigger or
smaller. An implant needs to be centered behind the
nipple to look natural. If you decide to go
much bigger, the scar will be located higher on the
breast. If you go smaller the crease will be raised,
exposing the scar in a lower position, possibly in
view under a bra or swimsuit.
Transaxillary
The immediate benefit
of a transaxillary incision is the
lack of scars to the breast. The
incision is located in the armpit,
where it is only seen when you raise
your arm. The scar typically heals
well, with maybe a slight discoloration
to the skin. Should your scar be fairly
noticeable, it will be located in a place
where few people will associate it with
breast enlargement. The implant can be
placed above or below the muscle with
this incision.
Though the entry point is away from the breast itself,
the procedure can be achieved with or without an
endoscope. It is important that your surgeon is very
skilled at this incision. If your surgeon does not
use an endoscope, the implant can look lopsided.
The downside to the
transaxillary incision is in the event
of a complication, you will need another
surgery and most likely at a different
entry point. The
transaxillary incision may not be suitable
for certain types of corrective surgery.
As an example, if you suffer from bottoming
out, where your nipple appears too high
on the breast due to an implant dropping
too low on your chest, an incision on
or under the breast would be a better
choice.
As you can see, careful
consideration is necessary to choose
which incision is right for you. Once
you and your surgeon have decided upon
an incision, you are that much closer
to changing the way you look. Since
each person's body is a work of art
in itself, there is no "one
size fits all" to any surgical procedure.
It is always best to seek the advice
of a trusted, experienced surgeon before
settling into any decision. Call us at
(866) 731-3198 and set an appointment
to start your journey. |
