Breast-Augmentation Incision Options
When it comes to breast augmentation, all the hours of preparation and doctor consultations are incredibly important. While most consultations are devoted to envisioning the patient’s goals for the surgery, another key topic of discussion is the type of incision that will be used.
The incision type and pattern used for your breast augmentation will be chosen based on Dr. Forman’s preference and your goals. Because you’ll be discussing your options beforehand, it is important that you know the uses and limitations of each incision pattern.
Incisions and Implants
The primary purpose of incisions during breast augmentation is to facilitate proper and safe placement of the breast implants. Through these incisions, surgeons create tissue pockets – spaces in the breasts for the implants – and the shape and size of the pockets influences the final outcome.
To better understand the reasons why incisions are chosen, you must first understand a key difference between saline and silicone implants. Silicone implants come pre-filled to their intended size, meaning their size cannot be changed. Saline implants, on the other hand, do not come pre-filled. Instead, they are filled to their intended size during the procedure.
Because saline implants are inserted empty into the breast pocket, they are much smaller than silicone implants when inserted. This makes them more versatile. They can be inserted into a much smaller incision that is a longer distance from their intended position in the breasts.
Incision Types
In general, one of these three incisions is made:
• Periareolar: This option is a common approach in breast augmentation. As the name suggests, the incision is made along the lower circumference of the areola. Any post-surgical marks resulting from this incision are expertly hidden along the areola’s border. People sometimes think that this incision leads to loss of nipple sensation, but in reality, loss of nipple sensation is the consequence of choosing the wrong implant size. This incision option works well with silicone and saline implants.
• Inframammary: The inframammary incision is made along the crease of the breast or right above the crease. Many surgeons prefer this incision option, since it offers easy access for breast-implant insertion and provides an unparalleled view of the internal tissues. Any post-surgical marks resulting from this incision are camouflaged in the breast fold. This incision pattern can accommodate silicone and saline implants of any size.
• Transaxillary: This incision is quite small and is made in the armpit crease. Because it is created in this area, post-surgical marks are well hidden. Since it is farther away from the final implant location than the other options, it is best suited to saline implants. The size of the incision made is quite small in comparison to the periareolar and inframammary incisions.
Arranging a Consultation
During a consultation at our office, you will discuss your breast-augmentation incision options with a skilled medical professional. Doctors Roger Friedman, Douglas Forman, and Kathy Huang are all board-certified plastic surgeons with years of experience.
Together, you and your plastic surgeon will decide on the right incision option for you. To schedule your consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons, contact our office today.
