When you choose to have a breast augmentation procedure, your doctor will discuss a number of factors with you,, including the size and type of implant and the incision used. Every surgeon has specific preferences, and your body shape and choice of impact will definitely help guide his or her recommendations, but it’s a good idea to know ahead of time what the 4 most common incision options are, what factors tend to indicate one choice over another, and how you can expect your incision choice to shape your results.
Periareolar Incision
This breast augmentation technique involves a smaller incision around the border of the areola in order to disguise the scar along the natural border between the normal breast skin and the colored areola, and to keep the scar length as small as possible. Also called a “nipple incision,” the periareolar approach is used mainly for procedures where the implant is in front of, rather than behind the muscle. The combination of the above-the-muscle placement with a periareolar incisision typically allows for the shortest-possible healing times; but your body type and breast tissue will determine whether this placement option is the best for a highly attractive result.
Inframammary Incision
This approach positions the incision along the natural crease below the breast. Like the periareolar incision, this technique hides the scar along a natural boundary line of the beast, hiding it naturally. The major benefit of this option is that it allows the surgeon a high level of control to adjust the position of the breast implant and surrounding tissues. This is especially helpful in procedures that position the implant below the breast muscle.
Transaxillary Incision
Like the periareolar incision, the transaxillary incision provides a shorter incision that’s well hidden – in this case, in the natural fold of the armpit. Some surgeons favor this approach a bit less because the implant needs to move a bit farther through the tissues to get to the area where the surgeon will need to position it, but from a skilled surgeon this approach can get equally positive results, and many women appreciate the less-noticeable scar.
TUBA Incision
TUBA is short for Trans-Umbilical Breast Augmentation, and is a popular choice for mommy makeover combination procedures (and on its own). The TUBA approach places the incision in or around the navel . Using an endoscope for accuracy, the surgeon will create a tunnel through the fat beneath the skin above the navel to the breast, guide the implant through the tunnel, and position the implant at the breast. Because the implant must travel extra distances, saline implants are the only option for this approach, but the complete lack of visible scarring on the breast itself makes this option popular.
Regardless of which option you choose, make sure you discuss your options in detail with your doctor; share your own goals and make sure you understand what factors about your breast shape guide him or her to recommend one approach over another. Remember that while some approaches are often touted as more likely to get better results, the incision choice is far less important than the quality of the doctor you choose – a highly skilled surgeon will help you choose your options effectively and plan your procedure to promote fast healing and excellent results.
Dr. Francesco Campanile is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is also fellowship trained in hand and microsurgery. Dr. Campanile knows that making a lasting change to your appearance is a big decision. His calm, professional approach and deep caring for his patients set a tone that will help you feel confident and relaxed while reviewing your options and learning all about the procedures that can benefit you. Request a consultation today to meet with Dr. Campanile in person.
