Women facing breast augmentation procedures must choose the best possible incision point. Options include below the crease of the breasts, in the nipple area, or in the armpit.
When you decide to have breast augmentation surgery,
you face many choices. One that you may not realize you face is the choice as to where to have your incision placed. While your surgeon will help you make this choice, it ultimately remains up to you as to where you wish to have the incision placed. Here is some information about your options.
Incision in the Crease
The crease below each of the breasts is one of the most popular incision points. This allows the scar to be hidden in the body’s natural curves, and also allows the surgeon increased control over placement of the implants during the surgery. Another benefit of this incision position is the fact that it allows implants to be replaced or revised through the exact same incision. In other words, if something goes wrong and you need to have your breast augmentation fixed, you will not necessarily have an additional scar.
This incision spot has one drawback. If you ever decide to have a larger or smaller implant in place of the one you have, this implant must be placed behind the nipple, and the chance can make the scar visible, because it will change the placement of the fold. If you opt for this incision location, consider your physicians instructions as to the best possible size for your frame, age, and goals.
Nipple Area Incision
An incision in the nipple area, known as a periareolar incision, places the scar on the bottom half of the areola. When done properly, this scar is barely visible because it is placed on the edge between the darker and lighter skin.
The main drawback for a periareloar incision during breast augmentation is the fact that the surgeon must cut into the ducts. These ducts contain bacteria, and that bacteria can spread into the implant pocket, causing an infection. If you are concerned about this risk, talk to your surgeon about the possibility of using a protective sleeve between the implants and the ducts during the procedure.
Armpit Incision
The armpit incision is a newer option. Known as a transaxillary incision, this is available for women who choose implants that can be filled after they are placed. The scars are barely noticeable, and the fact that they are in the armpit makes any visible scarring inconsequential.
The main drawback to this type of surgery occurs if there is a complication. If you have a problem after the implant is placed and filled, you may need another surgery with an entry point other than the armpit. This can add even more scarring, which may be something you wish to avoid. Finding a surgeon who is highly skilled in this type of breast augmentation procedure will help prevent this occurrence.
The most important thing, however, when researching your options for breast augmentation, is finding a physician you trust, and then listening to his recommendations. If you feel a particular incision point is right for you, but your surgeon disagrees, listen to your doctor. Remember, he is the expert in the field and ultimately has your best interests in mind, so take his word for it when choosing your incision location.
