In anticipation of your breast augmentation, you must decide where Dr. A.J. Khalil will position your implants. You have two options: above or below your pectoral (chest) muscle.
Every woman has unique circumstances depending on her natural anatomy and personal preferences. Dr. Khalil’s specialty as a plastic surgeon is helping you determine the placement option that works for your needs.
Above the Chest Muscle
Placing breast implants above the chest muscle is referred to as “subglandular” placement. The implants are positioned in tissue pockets behind the skin and breast glands, on top of the chest muscle.
Benefits
Some women feel that the surgery to place implants above the chest muscle offers a smoother and more comfortable recovery, since the muscle does not need to be manipulated.
Furthermore, the implants do not interfere with the anatomy or function of the chest muscle. There is less chance of the implant “animating” — meaning shifting or distorting — during activities that involve flexing the chest.
Drawbacks
In candidates with very small natural breasts, there may not be adequate tissue to camouflage the implants. As a result, the edges of the implants or implant rippling may be visible.
Also, there is some debate over the risk of capsular contracture in patients who opt for subglandular placement versus submuscular placement. Some providers feel that the incidence of capsular contracture is greater in patients who have implants placed in the subglandular position.
Beneath the Chest Muscle
Placing breast implants beneath the breast glands and chest muscle is referred to as “submuscular” placement.
Benefits
The chest muscle offers greater coverage and support for the implants, for a more natural final result. This approach is often recommended to women who have little natural breast tissue.
Also, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, when implants are placed under the muscle, they are less likely to interfere with mammogram readings.
Drawbacks
The recovery from surgery using this placement approach can be slightly longer and more uncomfortable than it is for patients who choose subglandular placement.
In a small number of patients, the implants can become animated or distorted when the chest muscle is flexed during exercise or certain arm movements. This applies to women with larger chest muscles.
Your breast augmentation will be completely personalized to your unique needs, anatomy and treatment goals. Dr. Khalil will go over your placement options with you to determine the approach that is right for you. Call or email our office today to request a consultation.
