4 Options for Breast Augmentation Incision Placement

When it comes to achieving excellent breast implant results, there are a few ways to customize your procedure for your preferred look. One of those is to consider your options for incision placement. Here is a closer look at your four options for breast augmentation incision placement and the benefits of each.

1. Inframammary

   The inframammary incision is made in the natural crease below the breast.

   • This may be the best method for delivering beautifully symmetrical results.
   • If you have breast implant revision or removal surgery in the future, your surgeon may be able to operate using the same incision to avoid an additional scar.
   • The incision may be slightly more visible compared to other placement options, but should be hidden by the breast when standing normally.

2. Periareolar

   The periareolar incision circles the areola in the center of the breast.

   • This is typically the best-concealed incision. The healed scar is hidden by the color of the areola, sometimes even in instances of poor healing.
   • Women with very small areolas may not be candidates.
   • Due to the fact that the surgeon must cut through breast tissue and milk ducts, there is a greater risk of a change in nipple sensation or breastfeeding complications.

3. Transaxillary

   The transaxillary incision is made through the armpit.

   • This incision results in no scarring on the breasts, but is not very common because it can be difficult for the surgeon to achieve proper implant placement.
   • Future breast implant revision may require a new (inframammary) incision.

4. TUBA

   The TUBA, or trans-umbilical breast augmentation, uses an incision in the belly button through which to place unfilled saline breast implants.

   • Because the incision is farther away from the breasts, achieving perfect symmetry may be difficult.
   • Like the transaxillary incision, TUBA is not a very common approach for breast augmentation surgery.

Author: Dr. Joseph Castellano

Dr. Joseph Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. After medical school and residency, Dr. Castellano returned home and has opened a practice in Tampa, Florida focusing on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. He is a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and American Medical Association