Location: The Importance of Proper Placement of Breast Implants

Once a woman has made the decision to undergo breast augmentation, she should consult a breast augmentation plastic surgeon who is an implant placement specialist to determine which placement technique is most appropriate for her needs.

Subglandular Placement

With subglandular placement, the breast implants are positioned just under the existing breast tissue. Since there is less trauma to the underlying musculature, post-operative discomfort and recovery time are reduced.

Subpectoral Placement

With subpectoral placement, the implants are placed underneath the existing breast tissue as well as the pectoral muscles. Because the underlying musculature is involved, subpectoral placement typically involves slightly more post-operative discomfort as well as a longer recuperation and recovery time. There is also a small risk that the pectoral muscles will contract.

Advantages of Subpectoral Placement

For most patients, especially those with limited existing breast tissue, the advantages of subpectoral implant placement often outweigh any disadvantages.

• The upper slope of the breast appears more natural with subpectoral placement.
• There is less chance of implant distortion or visible implant rippling.
• There is less risk that the implant will contract or become hard with subpectoral implant placement.
• The edges of the implant are not as visible, which provides for a more natural-looking result.

Implant placement is a critical consideration in a breast augmentation procedure which affects not only how the new breasts will look, but also the patient’s recovery time and the likelihood of certain complications. To determine which technique is most appropriate for their body type as well as the desired result, patients should consult with Dr. Firouz, a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon with expertise in implant placement.