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Breast Augmentation Incision Options
Southern California Plastic Surgery Group
When planning your breast augmentation procedure incision placement is one of the decisions you will have to make. Dr. Hicks will help you make decisions based on your body type, implant size and type and your desired results.
Incision placement is primarily a matter of personal preference, but your decision will be affected, in part, by the size and type of implants that you choose, implant placement, and whether you desire to breastfeed in the future.
Incision size
Pre-filled implants require a larger incision than implants which are filled after they are inserted, and textured implants require a slightly larger incision than smooth implants.
 Incision location
- Inframammary crease
The most common incision location is the inframammary crease, where the lower part of the breast meets the chest. The scar is well hidden, and this location allows the most flexibility in implant size, type, and placement.
- Periareolar
The periareolar incision is made around the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. Placing the incision on the line where the darker and lighter skin meet creates an almost invisible scar. Women who intend to breastfeed in the future may want to avoid this incision placement because in a few rare cases it can affect the milk let-down reflex, and sometimes causes damage to the milk ducts and nerves in the area.
- Transaxillary
This incision is made in the armpit and leaves no scar on the breast, but in the natural folds under the arm, where it’s rarely noticeable. Breast augmentation through the transaxillary incision is an endoscopic procedure, meaning that Dr. Hicks will use a tiny camera, called an endoscope, to view the procedure as he works.
- TUBA (Transumbilical Breast Augmentation)
The transumbillical incision is placed in the navel, creating a scar that’s very hard to detect. This is also an endoscopic procedure, meaning that the implant is tunneled up to its position using a thin tube with a camera and light on its end. The TUBA incision typically has a shorter recovery period, but is not appropriate for all implant types and sizes.
Get more familiar with breast augmentation incision options by viewing our Before and After Gallery.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Hicks in Beverly Hills, Long Beach, or Los Angeles, California, to determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation. During your consultation Dr. Hicks will evaluate your unique body type and desired results, explain all your treatment options, discuss the outcome you can realistically expect, and answer any questions you may have. |
