Decisions, Decisions: What Are Your Breast Augmentation Incision Options?

So maybe you’ve been contemplating breast enhancement for some time now. You’ve done your research and have a good idea of the outcome you want to experience. Whether your breasts are too small, or you just want to improve the volume and firmness, breast augmentation is a big step with multiple options to consider.

Although breast implant type and placement are important aspects of the procedure, incision location is of great concern for post-surgery breast appearance. Faint and inconspicuous scarring is a big factor to the success of a breast augmentation procedure.

Location, Location, Location

Scarring is a consequence of surgery – even aesthetic surgery. Your surgeon’s skill and the location of the incision will determine the visibility of any scar. Here is some information on the different incision techniques available with breast augmentation surgery at The Waltzman Institute. They include:

  • Peri-areolar Incision
  • Inframammary Incision

Peri-areola Incision

Dr. Waltzman will complete an incision in the outline of the dark pigment around the nipple (areolar). The exact location is between the areola and the surrounding skin to conceal any scar. Peri-areolar incisions allow for optimal control over breast implant position with ideal placement and nominal scar visibility.

This technique is best for saline implants which are inserted unfilled. It can also be used for silicone-gel implants if the implant and incision size allow for it. After Dr. Waltzman performs the incision, he will create a pocket for implant insertion. He will then center the implant behind the nipple. When using saline implants, the volume of solution can be adjusted easily due to the short distance between the incision and implant placement.

A downside is that the technique may impede breastfeeding in the future.

Inframammary Incision

This incision technique is a great option for women who choose silicone implants for larger breasts. The silicone implants are inserted as a whole, which calls for a larger incision.

Dr. Waltzman places the inframammary incision in the fold where the chest and the breast come together (inframammary fold). He then forms a pocket and slides the implant upward through the incision and centers it behind the nipple.

The incision allows for optimal placement of the implant and a reduction of scar visibility. This method also allows Dr. Waltzman to work close to the breast where visibility is clear. The scar will be hidden under the breast in its natural fold, allowing for flexible clothing options.

Unlike the Peri-areola Incision, breastfeeding will not be affected.

Making Your Decision

The best way to make any decision is to have all the facts. We at The Waltzman Institute invite you to come and visit us to get all the information you will need to make an informed decision. We offer a stress-free environment and have a reputation for treating our patients like family.

For more information about breast augmentation or to schedule a consultation, call (562) 448-6100 or contact us here.