Posted: April 4, 2019
Breast augmentation with implants will require an incision. Common breast augmentation incision options include around the nipple, in the crease between breast and chest, in the armpit, or in the belly button, all areas with features, such as skin tone variation or natural folds, which allow the incisions to be obscured.
Of course, the two options that don’t involve incisions on or underneath the breasts will eliminate the risk of scarring in that area entirely and reduce the risk of visible scarring at all. The tradeoff is fairly unfavorable, however, as the distance between these incisions and the surgical location is far enough to make precise placement and optimal positioning of the breast implant much less likely.
Inframammary Breast Augmentation Incisions
Indianapolis breast surgeon Dr. Joseph Fata has found that the inframammary incision, underneath the breast in the crease between the breast mound and the rib cage, offers the most favorable results. With this incision option, scaring is easily hidden in the natural fold between the breast and the chest. If proper care is taken of these incisions, scarring should be minimal and completely unnoticeable in time.
Additional benefits offered by breast augmentation incisions underneath the breast mound include:
- Ideal access to the lower breast, where the pocket that will hold the implant is placed
- Allows for the placement of both saline and silicone breast implants
- Reduces risks for loss of breast sensitivity
- Reduces risks for interference with breastfeeding
- Allows for greater ease of access in cases of breast implant revision
Dr. Fata uses the submuscular and dual plane breast implant placement locations to help improve and protect aesthetic results while reducing risks for capsular contracture. Incisions underneath the breast provide the best access to chest muscles, helping ensure breast implants are placed in the most ideal location for your needs and desires.
Periareolar Breast Augmentation Incisions
If you have selected saline breast implants, Dr. Fata may discuss the periareolar incision as well. Made around the nipple, this incision can be hidden in the darker skin of the areola where it allows direct access to the surgical area. However, the periareolar incision may come with risks of sensitivity loss and may complicate future breastfeeding. This incision option is also too small to allow for the placement of silicone breast implants.
Incision Care
The care you take of your incisions will play a direct role in how much scaring is present after recovery. It is absolutely vital that you do not use any products containing nicotine in the months leading up to and coming out of your procedure. Nicotine interferes with the body’s natural healing response and it will, almost inevitably, result in the development of scars.
In addition to not smoking, you can help reduce your risk of breast augmentation scars by:
- Keeping your incisions dry and clean
- Keeping your incisions out of direct sunlight
- Avoiding strenuous activities
- Wearing a support bra
- Using creams and ointments
- Gently massaging the breasts
You will be sent home from your procedure with a comfortable cotton bra. This should be traded out for a support bra within 24 hours, but avoid choosing a bra with underwire. Underwire can irritate and inflame incisions, resulting in more visible scars.
Breast massage after scabs have fallen off can help flatten and soften scars, especially when assisted by a topical softening cream or silicone gel designed for scar reduction. Dr. Fata will discuss these techniques before your procedure and during your follow-up visits. Follow-up visits are included in the cost of breast augmentation at Renaissance Plastic Surgery.
Contact Us Today
Dr. Fata is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Caring, compassionate, and committed, Dr. Fata takes time to listen, evaluate, and carefully plan all breast augmentation procedures for optimal results. If you are considering breast augmentation and would like to learn more, call 317-575-9152 to schedule your initial consultation today.
Located in Indianapolis, Renaissance Plastic Surgery welcomes patients from all surrounding areas of Indiana, including Carmel, Noblesville, and Plainfield.
