Breast augmentation through an armpit incision offers women a unique approach to achieving their aesthetic goals without visible scarring on the breast.
This advanced surgical technique, also known as transaxillary breast augmentation, allows plastic surgeons to place implants through a small incision in the natural fold of the armpit.
The armpit incision for breast augmentation provides an alternative to traditional incision locations while maintaining excellent cosmetic surgery results.
The transaxillary approach requires specialized expertise and advanced surgical instruments. Unlike conventional methods that create incisions directly on the breast, this technique preserves the natural appearance of the breast tissue while delivering the desired enhancement.
Expert Philadelphia plastic surgery practices utilize this advanced approach to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
Understanding how this procedure works and whether it suits your specific needs helps you make an informed decision about your breast augmentation journey.
How Armpit Incision for Breast Augmentation Works
The armpit incision for breast augmentation involves a sophisticated surgical process that requires precision and specialized equipment. This technique allows plastic surgeons to create the ideal breast enhancement while keeping all surgical incisions away from the breast area itself.
Endoscopic Visualization During the Procedure
The armpit incision for breast augmentation relies on endoscopic technology to provide clear visualization throughout the surgery. The plastic surgeon inserts a thin, flexible camera called an endoscope through an armpit incision.
This camera transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing the plastic surgeon to see the internal anatomy clearly. The endoscopic approach ensures proper implant placement while maintaining complete control over the surgical process.
This advanced visualization technology helps create symmetrical results and reduces the risk of complications during the procedure.
Creating the Implant Pocket Through the Armpit
After making the initial incision in the armpit’s natural crease, the plastic surgeon carefully creates a pocket for the implant. The plastic surgeon uses specialized instruments to separate the tissue layers and form the appropriate space beneath the chest muscle and breast tissue. This pocket must be sized correctly to accommodate the chosen implant while ensuring optimal positioning.
The creation of this pocket requires careful attention to anatomical landmarks and careful tissue handling. The plastic surgeon maintains hemostasis throughout this process to minimize bleeding and promote healing.
Implant Insertion and Positioning Techniques
The final step involves inserting the implant through the armpit incision and positioning it within the created pocket.
For saline implants, the plastic surgeon inserts the empty implant shell and fills it with sterile saline solution after the implant is properly positioned.
Silicone implants require careful manipulation through the incision due to their pre-filled nature. Often a specialized funnel is used to place the implant into the pocket which is called a “No Touch Technique”. The plastic surgeon ensures proper implant orientation and symmetry before closing the incision. Multiple layers of sutures secure the tissues, and the armpit incision receives careful attention to minimize scarring.
Why Choose Armpit Incision for Breast Augmentation?
The armpit incision for breast augmentation offers several distinct advantages that make it an attractive option for many patients. These benefits extend beyond aesthetics to include functional considerations that can impact your long-term satisfaction with the results.
No Visible Scarring on the Breast
The most significant advantage of the armpit incision for breast augmentation is the absence of any scarring on the breast itself. The incision remains hidden within the natural fold of the armpit, where it becomes virtually invisible once healed. This placement preserves the natural appearance of your breasts without any surgical marks.
The armpit scar typically measures only 1 ½ to 2 inches in length and fades significantly over time. Most patients find that the scar becomes barely noticeable, even when wearing sleeveless clothing or swimwear. This benefit particularly appeals to women who want breast enhancement without having any scars on their breasts.
Modern scarless breast implants techniques have made this approach even more refined, minimizing any visible signs of surgery.
Preserved Nipple Sensitivity
The armpit incision for breast augmentation helps maintain nipple sensitivity by avoiding any surgical manipulation of the nipple-areolar complex. Traditional incision methods that go through or around the nipple can potentially affect nerve pathways responsible for sensation.
The transaxillary approach keeps all surgical activity away from these sensitive areas. This preservation of sensation contributes to both physical comfort and intimate satisfaction following surgery.
Natural Breast Tissue Remains Untouched
This surgical approach leaves the natural breast tissue completely undisturbed during the implant placement process. The armpit incision for breast augmentation allows the plastic surgeon to access the implant pocket without cutting through any breast tissue or milk ducts.
The technique also maintains the natural architecture of the breast, which can be beneficial for future mammographic screening. Additionally, keeping the breast tissue intact reduces the risk of complications such as capsular contracture and infection.
Understanding breast augmentation scarring options helps patients make informed decisions about their surgical approach. Proper post-operative care for breast augmentation ensures optimal healing.
What Types of Implants Work with Armpit Incisions
Not all breast implant options are equally suitable for the armpit incision for breast augmentation. Understanding which implant placement options work best with this approach helps you make an informed decision about your surgery.
Saline Implant Compatibility
Saline implants work exceptionally well with the armpit incision for breast augmentation because they can be inserted empty and filled after placement. The deflated implant shell easily passes through the small armpit incision without requiring a larger opening.
Once positioned correctly within the implant pocket, the plastic surgeon fills the implant with sterile saline solution to the desired volume. This flexibility allows for adjustments in size during the procedure to achieve symmetry. Saline implants also offer the advantage of smaller incisions since the shell itself is compact when empty.
Silicone Gel Implant Considerations
Silicone gel implants present more challenges for the armpit incision for breast augmentation due to their pre-filled nature. These implants require a slightly larger incision to accommodate their size during insertion.
However, experienced plastic surgeons can successfully place silicone implants through the armpit using specialized insertion techniques such as a funnel. The cohesive gel consistency of modern silicone implants allows for careful manipulation through the incision without compromising implant integrity. Some patients prefer silicone implants for their natural feel, making this option worth considering despite the technical complexity.
Size Limitations for Armpit Placement
The armpit incision for breast augmentation does impose certain size limitations on implant selection. Very large implants may require incisions that become noticeable or create excessive tension during healing. Most plastic surgeons recommend staying within moderate size ranges to maintain the benefits of the armpit approach.
Implants larger than 400-450cc may present challenges for insertion through the armpit incision. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and aesthetic goals to determine the optimal implant size that can be safely placed through this approach while achieving your desired breast augmentation results.
Different breast implant options provide varying benefits depending on your specific needs and preferences. Experienced plastic surgeons understand how implant placement options affect both the surgical process and final outcomes which will be discussed during your consultation.
When Armpit Incision May Not Be Suitable
While the armpit incision for breast augmentation offers many benefits, certain factors may make alternative approaches more appropriate for some patients. Understanding these limitations helps ensure you choose the best surgical method for your specific situation.
Anatomical Considerations
Some anatomical factors can make the armpit incision for breast augmentation more challenging or less ideal. Patients with very tight chest muscles may experience difficulty with implant placement through the armpit approach. Asymmetrical chest anatomy or unusual rib cage configuration can also complicate the procedure.
Additionally, patients with very small or narrow armpit areas may not have adequate space for the necessary surgical access. Your plastic surgeon will perform a thorough examination to assess whether your anatomy is suitable for this technique. Breast augmentation scarring concerns may also influence the decision if you have a history of poor wound healing or keloid formation.
Previous Surgery History
Prior surgical procedures can impact the feasibility of the armpit incision for breast augmentation. Previous breast surgery, chest surgery, or lymph node removal in the armpit area can create scar tissue that complicates the procedure.
Patients who have undergone axillary surgery for medical reasons may have altered anatomy that makes this approach unsuitable. Additionally, previous breast augmentation through a different incision method may limit the ability to use the armpit approach for revision surgery. Your plastic surgeon will review your complete surgical history to determine if the armpit incision remains a viable option for your breast augmentation.
Patient Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle factors and personal preferences may make other incision methods more appropriate than the armpit incision for breast augmentation. Some individuals may have concerns about temporary limitations in arm movement during the early breast augmentation recovery period.
Additionally, patients who prefer the ability to have more precise control over implant positioning might benefit from incision methods that provide more direct access to the breast area. Dr. Adrian Lo evaluates each patient’s lifestyle and preferences to recommend the most suitable surgical approach for their individual needs.
Achieve Your Goals with Dr. Adrian Lo’s Advanced Techniques
Dr. Adrian Lo’s expertise in advanced breast augmentation techniques delivers exceptional results through the specialized armpit incision approach. As an award-winning plastic surgeon, Dr. Lo combines innovative surgical methods with personalized care to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Schedule a consultation in our Philadelphia PA or Marlton NJ office to discover how this innovative method can help you achieve your desired results while minimizing visible scarring and preserving your natural breast tissue!