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When it comes to breast augmentation, multiple techniques and approaches can be used that better suit the specific needs and goals of the patient. One important decision is whether to place the breast implant over or under the chest muscles. This placement can affect several things. At Parkins Plastic Surgery in Milwaukee, WI, we want to help you understand the differences and benefits of each option.
The placement of the breast implant has an impact on the aesthetic results of breast augmentation as well as the length of the recovery period. Proper placement also helps reduce the risk of complications such as capsular contracture, implant movement, implant rippling, and more. Other factors, such as implant size and type, also affect placement.
The breasts are composed of several layers of tissue and muscle. These include the greater and smaller pectoral muscles, which lie beneath the layers of skin, glandular tissue, and fat that make up the breasts. With subglandular implant placement, implants sit beneath the skin, fat, and glandular tissue but above the pectoral muscles. With submuscular implant placement, the implants are placed fully or partially underneath the pectoralis major muscle.
Placing the breast implant over the chest muscles is less invasive because the implant sits above the pectoral muscle. Chest muscle contraction also doesn’t affect the implants in the same way it can with under-the-muscle placement. The harder, more constricting muscle tissue also puts no pressure on the implant, allowing for a fuller appearance, improved projection, and more pronounced cleavage. This approach also allows for the placement of larger breast implants. Recovery is also shorter and easier because this option is less invasive.
Over-the-muscle implant placement has some potential drawbacks. This approach carries a higher risk of implant rippling, which is typically more common in women with less natural breast tissue to cover the implant.
With submuscular implant placement, the breast implant has a more natural shape and appearance. The muscle provides an additional layer of coverage, reducing the risk of visible implant rippling. The slope of the breasts is also more similar to natural breasts. Patients with less breast tissue often benefit from having additional tissue to cover the implant.
Subpectoral placement does require a longer surgery time and additional surgical work, which can make the recovery period longer and produce more discomfort while healing. This approach may also not be ideal for patients who do a lot of chest exercises and heavy lifting, as chest muscle flexion can cause the implant to appear distorted.
When it comes to choosing a surgeon to perform your breast augmentation, you need a highly skilled, extensively trained, and qualified surgeon who understands the anatomy of the breasts. Factors like the size and type of implant come into play, and your surgeon should be able to account for them to provide you with the best possible results.
Dr. Maida Parkins is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has been providing patients with the best possible care for over a decade. She is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). She has undergone rigorous training to develop personalized surgical plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
The best way to determine which implant placement is best for your breast augmentation is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Parkins. Once she understands your goals and can examine the area in person, she can recommend the best course of action to help you achieve your ideal results. Contact our office serving the Milwaukee and Madison areas today.
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