Breast Augmentation Incisions

When a plastic surgeon performs breast augmentation surgery on a patient he can choose from one of four different incision sites. This is a decision that is decided upon before the surgery gets underway and is discussed with the patient at length before the day of the operation arrives.

Transaxillary Incision

Sometimes referred to as the armpit incision, in this case the surgeon enters the skin where it folds under the arm. It is common for the surgeon to use an instrument known as an endoscope (similar to a very small telescope) to make the proper size in the skin for the implant to be inserted. The transaxillary incision is generally from one to three inches in length. The implant is then carefully positioned below the muscle of the patient.

Periareolar Incision

This type of incision is done in a semi circular fashion around the breast’s areola. The surgeon will need to decide if it is in the best interest of the patient to make the incision above the muscle or below it. Both are possible with the periareolar incision.

Inframammary Incision

As the name implies, the inframmary incision is performed very close to the mammary glands of the breast. To be more exact it is done on the underside of the breast where the skin of the breast connects to the rest of the chest (or the crease). The length of the incision can be anywhere from two to three inches and the implant can either be positioned above or below the muscle. This type of implant is often used when the patient is having silicone implants put in.

Transumbilical Incision

This type of incision is the newest incision of the four and is as yet not used in certain countries. Also sometimes referred to as transumbilical breast augmentation (or TUBA for short), this incision is made in the navel. An endoscope is often used during this procedure. The implant can be placed either above the muscle or below it. This is left up to the discretion of the surgeon.