Breast implant placement for breast augmentation is an important choice usually made by the plastic surgeon. Your final shape and contour of your breasts can be dramatically different based on the breast implant placement. Breast implants can be placed on top of the muscle (subgladular) or under the muscle (sub-muscular). Some variation of the two exists including sub-fascial (directly on top of the muscle) and dual plane (mostly submuscular). Breast enhancement procedures not only help you fill out your breasts but depending on the placement of the breast implants, can also improve your shape.
In subgladular breast augmentation, the implants are either placed directly under your breast tissue (classic) or on top of your pectoralis muscle but below the muscle fascia (sub-fascial). In either case, the breast implant will fill out your breast and has a mild lifting effect. Implants tend to have a more natural motion and will not animate (move) with activity. Patients tend to have less pain. The best candidates for subglandular breast augmentation are those with adequate breast tissue.
The breast implants used in subgladular breast enlargement may be visible or palpable especially in patients with thin breast tissue or after pregnancy. Capsular contracture rates are also higher with implants placed above the muscle. Because of these issues, non-textured silicone gel implants are the recommended for subgladular breast enhancement.
In submuscular breast augmentation, the implant is placed partially below the pectoralis muscle. A complete submuscular placement is rare. The pectoralis muscle provides more soft tissue coverage of the implant decreasing visibility and palpability of the breast implant. The slope of the breast also appears natural and the implant soft tissue junction is less visualized. Capsular contracture rates are lower in submuscular breast enlargement. Either saline or silicone gel breast implants can be used.
Submuscular breast enhancement can increase animation or movements of your breast. These movements are noticeable in some activity as weight lifting or pulling yourself out of the pool. There is a mild increase in post -operative discomfort but most heal in similar time.
Patients do have choices about placement of their breast implants for breast enhancement surgery. I feel that most all patients would do better when implants are placed in the submuscular position. Most patients seeking breast augmentation lack adequate breast tissue (the reason for the surgery). Aging and changes with pregnancy can lead to decreased breast tissue especially in the upper part of your breast. Submuscular placement can protect the upper pole and give a natural slope to your breasts, decrease visibility of the implant, and improve long-term satisfaction.
Call today for a consultation and ask for Dr. Mizuguchi: 502.899.9979
