Breast augmentation surgery increases the size of your breasts by using breast implants placed either behind the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle. Many women feel that this plastic surgery procedure increases their confidence and helps them feel more comfortable with their bodies. It can also be helpful if significant weight loss caused a change in your breast size or shape. Whatever your reasons for considering augmentation mammoplasty, it’s important to do your research and learn more about breast augmentation and how it works.
These are the main types of breast augmentation techniques you need to know:
Breast Augmentation Incision Types
The first step of this cosmetic surgery is an incision which allows the plastic surgeon to place the breast implants. There are four main types of surgical incisions that your doctor may use:
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Trans-Umbilical
This method involves an incision above your bellybutton where the doctor will place the implants. Your surgeon will then move the implants up to place them behind the breasts. This procedure leaves a very small scar with no scarring on the breasts themselves, making it a popular option.
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Inframammary
This breast augmentation technique uses an incision in the fold underneath your breast. As a result, your plastic surgeon has a greater area to work with and can position the breast implant with more precision. It does leave a larger scar, but the scar is placed under the breast and can usually be concealed.
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Transaxillary
The incision for this type of breast augmentation is under the armpit. Similar to a trans-umbilical procedure, the surgeon will then move the implant so that it is positioned behind your breasts or behind your pectoral muscle. This method also leaves a smaller scar and leaves no scarring on your breasts.
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Periareolar
For this type of breast augmentation technique, the surgeon makes an incision around the outer edge of your areola. Since pigmentation shifts in this area, the scar is not usually obvious. The main reason a plastic surgeon would opt for this method is if they are also doing a breast lift in the same surgery.
Materials for Breast Implants
In addition to these different incision techniques, there are a few different options for what material your breast implants are made from. The three main types are: structured (“gummy bear”), saline, or silicone. Which you choose will depend on the size and shape that you prefer.
Structured implants have an internal structure, which makes it easier for your plastic surgeon to create a natural shape. However, they do require a longer incision (usually the inframammary method) to insert properly. Saline implants include salt water and are safer if an unfortunate accident causes them to burst within the body. The breast volume, shape, and feel is relatively uniform for saline. Finally, silicone implants mimic breast tissue, so you may feel that your breasts have a more natural texture and volume. Silicone implants require regular monitoring.
Hess & Sandeen Plastic Surgery
Breast Augmentation
You can trust Hess & Sandeen for your breast augmentation procedure. Our board-certified plastic surgeons will consult with you and find the technique that works best for your desired breast size and shape. We are well-versed in all types of breast surgery and our skilled team will help ensure your healing process is as short as possible.
