Far too often, in the world of breast augmentation, much attention and emphasis is placed on the size of the breast implant and not its location. This issue is one that has profound yet differing long-term affects for the patient, so it is important that it is addressed.
Patients typically have two choices when it comes to implant placement: subglandular and submuscular. Subglandular implants are placed underneath the breast tissue, yet above the chest wall muscles, whereas submuscular implants are placed below the chest (pectoral) muscles. Occasionally, a third procedure option is available that allows a patient to have the implant placed partially under the muscle wall.
Frequently, when it comes to implant placement, most surgeons and patients opt for subglandular for a variety of reasons, including the relative ease (compared to submuscular placement) of the procedure on both doctor and patient. Many women are happy and are more than eligible to have their breast augmentation done in such a way.
However, submuscular implant placement presents many benefits to the patient, including:
- Lower occurrence of capsular contracture
- Lower chance of rippling
- Less interference with future mammograms
- Less visible Implant
- More natural appearance and feel to the breast
- Better results for women with small breasts
Capsular contracture is a condition where a “capsule” of scar tissue forms around the breast implants and constricts the implant in an unnatural fashion. This creates a hardened look to the breasts and is potentially painful for the patient. Treating capsular contracture requires that the implants and scar tissue be removed and the implants replaced. Capsular contracture occurs far less frequently with submuscular implants.
The other primary benefit to submuscular implantation is that more of the implant is covered by more muscle tissue, reducing the likelihood of visible implant rippling. This creates a much more natural look to a patient’s implants.
Additionally, submuscular implantation creates less interference with mammography. Because the implants are placed below the breast’s glandular tissue and muscle, and the glandular tissue is what is being examined during a mammogram, imaging is more accurate.
As always, even though submuscular breast implants have many advantages, only you and your plastic surgeon will know what is the best technique for you. Many factors, such as age, body type, implant type and intended results factor into which technique will be best for you. Always be sure to thoroughly discuss your breast augmentation with your plastic surgeon.
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