Breast Augmentation Incisions
Women seeking to enlarge their breast size through breast augmentation will undoubtedly have questions about the kinds of incisions doctors will make to achieve their desired outcomes. Because incisions can be made at different locations on the breast and may lead to mild scarring, it is important for individuals considering breast surgery to understand what types of incision options are available and to work in consultation with their physicians to determine which will best meet their needs.
Patients who wish to increase their bust size will undergo one of four basic incisions:
1. The crease incision is a widely used technique that allows the implant to be placed over, partially under or completely under the muscle. Surgeons work within close proximity to the breast, which permits them greater control over implant placement as they make an incision in the inflammatory fold. If the surgeon properly guesstimates where to incise in relation to the new crease, then the cut should not leave a highly visible scar. Should any revisions be necessary in the future, this technique also allows changes to be made through the same incision; however, opting later for larger implants will require the crease be lowered while opting for smaller implants will require it to be raised. Moreover, removing the implants will mean the incision will be visible no matter what.
2. The areola incision, which is one of the most commonly used, requires a cut be made just along the areola border, which is the darker area of skin surrounding the nipple. This incision is made at the edge of areola so that it better blends in with the skin’s natural coloring and scarring is camouflaged. This technique can be used for all implant types and can heal into a thin, flat line if covered with surgical tape during the recovery period.
3. Those who desire no scarring be evident as the result of breast augmentation may request a transaxillary incision, which is made in the armpit to conceal scars in the natural folds of the skin. This technique requires the expertise of a surgeon skilled in this kind of incision since the physician must work away from the breast yet achieve evenly placed implants. A slight disadvantage of this technique is the need for another incision should any complications arise that require additional surgery.
4. Similarly, the Trans-umbilical Breast Augmentation (“TUBA”) requires the skill of a surgeon specifically trained in this kind of incision. It requires an incision be made at the rim of the navel through which the implant is inserted and then filled with saline. This technique requires the physician’s use of an endoscope, a lighted camera, to guide his work. It is critical that individuals who desire this incision identify a surgeon with significant experience in this technique. Moreover, only saline implants can be inserted through this incision and depending on the dissection technique of the surgeon, the warranty may be voided on the implant by the manufacturer.
