Breast Augmentation - Choosing your Incision

Breast implants can be placed by way of a number of different types of incisions (cuts). Depending upon your individual situation and goals, one option may be more appropriate for you. The options include transaxillary, periareolar and crease incisions.

Transaxillary or Armpit Incision - Transaxillary Endoscopic Breast Augmentation

The breast implants are placed through a small incision in the armpit. The incision is usually about 1 inch in length and is hidden deep in the armpit. The incision normally heals well and is barely noticeable and its appearance is similar to an armpit crease. Because the incision heals so well and is hidden, women continue to wear all styles of clothing including sleeveless dresses and tank tops.

With the transaxillary or armpit incision, the breast implants are placed under or above the pectoralis muscle with the use of an endoscope. The endoscope is a long thin tube with a camera at the end to allow the surgeon to visualize the pocket to place the breast implant properly.

Periareolar or Nipple Incision

The periareolar incision is placed around the lower half of your areola (the round pigmented skin with the nipple in the center) as opposed to the nipple itself although many refer to this incision as a 'nipple' incision.

Imagine your areola as the face of a clock. The breast implants are placed through an incision at the areola and skin junction from the 3 o' clock to the 9 o'clock position. The breast implants can be placed above or below the muscle. One advantage of this incision is that it normally heals well and is barely noticeable. There is also usually no loss of nipple feeling. This incision may be recommended for patients who do not wish the armpit incision or are not a candidate for the armpit incision. If the areolar is too small, then this incision cannot be used.

Crease Incision

The breast implants can also be placed through a small 1 1/2 to 2 inch incision underneath the breast at the breast crease. This incision tends to heal well although it can be more noticeable than the other incisions. The advantage of the crease incision is that being underneath the breasts it is hardly seen most of the time.

Most women have options regarding the type of incision. The choice will depend on your individual situation, goals and wishes and the recommendation of your plastic surgeon.

For additional information about Breast Augmentation or Breast Enhancement Surgery, click on the following links:

301 S. 8th St., Garfield Duncan Building Suite 3H, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Pavilions of Voorhees, 2301 Evesham Road, Building 800, Suite 221, Voorhees, NJ 08043

Plastic surgeon providing breast implants / augmentation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

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Philadelphia and Delaware Breast Implant Disclaimer: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Adrian Lo, M.D, has provided this breast enlargement / augmentation web page for informational purposes only. It is not intended for medical advice. For more information about plastic surgery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, please Contact Dr. Lo for a free consultation.