Because every body is unique, each breast augmentation is custom-tailored to help the patient achieve their specific aesthetic goals. During consultations, patients choose the characteristics of their breast-enlargement procedure, including implant specifications, implant placement, and incision type.   When it comes to breast augmentation incisions, there are three main options for New York patients: transaxillary, periareolar, and inframammary. Each of these options offers its own benefits and drawbacks.

Transaxillary Breast Augmentation

Dr. William Lao specializes in the transaxillary incision, which is created in the natural creases around the top of the armpit. This ensures that the resulting post-surgical mark is incredibly well-hidden. With the transaxillary incision, there are no scars on the breasts. Because of this, the procedure is often called “scarless breast augmentation.”   In the past, this technique was only available for saline implants, since they were inserted empty and were then filled. Now, due to cutting-edge advances in breast augmentation, transaxillary incisions are suitable for both pre-filled silicone implants and empty saline implants.   This technique is performed using an endoscope, which is a small tube with a fiber-optic camera and a light. This tool is connected to an external monitor. Inserting the endoscope through the transaxillary incision allows Dr. Lao to obtain a detailed, magnified view of the tissues, ensuring a high degree of precision.   This precision ensures a lower degree of tissue trauma and bleeding. As a result, patients can often enjoy a shorter and more comfortable recovery process. The transaxillary incision also offers the lowest infection rate among all breast augmentation incision options..

Periareolar Breast Augmentation

The periareolar incision is one of the most popular choices for breast augmentations in North America. This incision is created around the areola’s bottom border.   This option offers a simple and straightforward approach with very easy access for the surgeon. Incisions heal well, and over time, post-surgical marks typically blend into the surrounding skin.   Although most patients are very satisfied with the periareolar approach, it has some potential downsides. Out of all the incision locations, this option is made in the most sensitive region. It contains a lot of glandular, neurological, and vascular tissues, and though damage is quite rare, it can still occur.   Additionally, surgeons may not prefer this option for larger breast implants, especially for women with smaller areolae. This is because inserting these larger implants is more difficult.

Inframammary Breast Augmentation

The inframammary incision is made in the inframammary fold (IMF), the natural crease of the breast. Like the periareolar incision, this curving incision offers direct and straightforward access to the breast for surgeons, ensuring precise implant placement.   The inframammary technique fully avoids the sensitive glands and nerves near the areola and nipple. This makes it an especially safe option for patients concerned about risks related to nipple sensitivity and breastfeeding.   In terms of downsides, post-surgical marks are not always easy to hide with this incision type, especially while the patient is reclining. Additionally, certain surgeons feel that any form of disruption to the breast fold can potentially negatively affect structure and support over time.

Which Breast Augmentation Incision Is Best for My Procedure?

The right incision site for you will depend on a number of factors. These can include your body’s natural dimensions, your lifestyle, your age, and whether or not you have previously had children and breastfed.   Patients who are younger and have an especially flat chest may not have an apparent breast fold. Because there would be no natural camouflage for an inframammary incision scar, the other incision types would be preferable.   Patients who prefer to avoid scars on the breasts are best served with the transaxillary incision, since this option hides the post-surgical marks in the armpit.   Patients interested in combining a breast lift with their breast augmentation may prefer the periareolar or inframammary approach, as either incision pattern can be incorporated into the breast lift. Transaxillary incisions would be fully separate, resulting in more post-surgical marks. The best way to decide which breast augmentation incision type is right for you is by discussing your options with your plastic surgeon. During a consultation, your surgeon will ask about your aesthetic goals, perform a physical examination, and recommend the ideal incision option for you.

Schedule Your Consultation

Double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. William Lao is available to meet with you and discuss your breast augmentation incision options in further detail. To schedule a consultation at our New York clinic, contact us today.