One of the reasons behind the popularity of breast enlargement cosmetic surgery is that the procedure is highly customizable, and can be performed in several ways. Depending on the patient’s breast anatomy and her unique aesthetic needs, the surgeon can devise an appropriate surgical plan.
Dr. Bryson Richards is a leading plastic surgeon providing breast enlargement and other procedures. He will choose the right surgical approach in close consultation with the patient. Dr. Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV and surrounding communities.
Implant Placement Techniques
Breast implants can be placed subglandularly or submuscularly, depending on the patient’s needs.
Subglandular Method
In this technique, the breast implants are placed below the mammary gland but above the pectoral muscle. This type of breast enlargement plastic surgery involves relatively lesser post-op pain and discomfort, and usually the recovery is faster. This happens because the musculature remains undisturbed in this surgical approach. Cleavage can be created more easily with this technique as compared to the submuscular implantation.
One of the downsides of this technique is that the risk of implant rippling may be relatively higher. Ripples can form within the implant shell because of the bag’s tendency to fold inward. When the implant is not placed behind the muscle, the ripples become more easily seen and felt.
Submuscular Method
In this case, the cosmetic surgeon will place the implant below the pectoral muscle in the chest. The muscle will typically cover about two-thirds of the implant in this case. Results are usually more aesthetically appealing for women with naturally small breasts. Any flaws in the implants such as edges or ripples are largely hidden because the implant is concealed below the pectoral muscle. Silicone implants with submuscular placement can provide a fairly natural look and feel.
The challenge with submuscular technique is that the surgical procedure becomes longer and the recovery is relatively more comfortable and prolonged. This happens because the less flexible muscle tissue manipulation will take place in this technique.
Types of Incision
Dr. Richards will discuss the options for incision type and location with his patients in Las Vegas, NV and nearby areas. This choice will make an impact on the overall results of the surgery and the visibility of resulting scars.
Areolar Incision
In this case, the incision is created along the bottom half circumference of the areola, where the lighter breast tissue meets the darker tissue. The resulting scar blends in with the border, which makes it a popular incision choice.
Inframammary Incision
In this case, the incisions are placed at the bottom or crease of the breast where they can be inconspicuous beneath the bra or swimwear. This type of incision is more common when silicone gel implants are used.
Transaxillary Incision
This incision is made in the armpit. A channel to the breast is created through the incision, and an implant pocket is carved behind the breast. The technique is typically used for post-filled saline implants.
In rare cases, transumbilical (TUBA) incision may also be used, which involves an incision around the naval for implant insertion.
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070