When it comes to Breast Augmentation, one of the critical decisions you’ll need to make is the position of your breast implant. The location of the implant can significantly impact not only the aesthetic outcome but also the comfort and longevity of the results.
In this blog, Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan will guide you through the pros and cons of the three main types of breast implant placement: under the muscle (submuscular), over the muscle (subglandular), and a combination of the two (dual plane).
Breast implant placement refers to where the implant is positioned in relation to the breast tissue and the chest muscle (pectoralis muscle). There are three primary locations: submuscular (under the muscle), subglandular (over the muscle, but under the breast gland), and dual plane (partly under the muscle and partly under the gland). Each of these options has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Submuscular implant placement involves positioning the implant beneath the pectoralis major muscle. This placement can provide additional soft tissue coverage for the implant, potentially leading to a more natural-looking outcome. On the other hand, subglandular implant placement, also known as “over the muscle” placement, locates the implant between the breast tissue and the chest muscle. Lastly, dual plane placement is a hybrid approach that situates the implant partially under the muscle and partially under the breast tissue.
Submuscular implant placement, as the name suggests, involves positioning the breast implant behind the pectoral muscle. This placement is often recommended for thin women with little natural breast tissue. The muscle provides an additional layer of coverage for the implant, reducing the risk of visible implant edges and ripples.
However, submuscular implant placement does have some drawbacks. The surgical procedure is generally more invasive and may lead to a slightly longer recovery period. Also, there’s a phenomenon known as “animation deformity” that can occur with this placement. When you flex your pectoral muscles, it can cause the implants to move, distorting the shape of your breasts temporarily.
Despite these potential downsides, submuscular implant placement is commonly chosen for its natural-looking results and its lower risk of capsular contracture, a condition that occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing discomfort and distortion.
Subglandular implant placement, or “over the muscle” placement, involves situating the implant between the breast tissue and the pectoralis muscle. This option is often recommended for women who have a moderate amount of natural breast tissue that can cover and support the implant.
One of the main benefits of subglandular placement is a shorter, less invasive surgery with a faster recovery time. Additionally, because the implants are not placed beneath the muscle, there is no risk of animation deformity. This placement can also allow for a more dramatic enhancement in breast shape and size.
But there are some drawbacks to consider. Subglandular placement may be more likely to result in visible implant edges and ripples, particularly in women with thin skin and little natural breast tissue. It also carries a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture compared to submuscular placement.
Dual plane implant placement is a hybrid approach that combines the benefits of both submuscular and subglandular placements. In this method, the upper portion of the implant is covered by the pectoralis muscle, while the lower portion is covered by the breast tissue. This placement can be particularly beneficial for women with mild to moderate breast sagging, as it can provide a slight lift.
One of the key advantages of dual plane placement is its ability to yield natural-looking results, especially in women with sagging breasts or those who want a significant increase in size. It allows Anthony to shape the breast more precisely, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Like any other method, dual plane placement has its drawbacks. The procedure is technically more complex and requires a high level of surgical skill and experience. It also carries a risk of animation deformity, although it’s typically less pronounced than with full submuscular placement.
Comparing the three methods of breast implant placement can help you understand which one may be best for you. Submuscular placement, with its additional muscle coverage, can offer more natural-looking results and lower chances of capsular contracture, albeit with a slightly longer recovery period and the potential for animation deformity.
Subglandular placement, on the other hand, may involve a shorter recovery period and no risk of animation deformity. But it may lead to more visible implant edges and ripples, especially in women with little natural breast tissue. Finally, dual plane placement combines the advantages of both methods and can be particularly suitable for women with mild to moderate breast sagging.
Each breast implant placement option has its pros and cons. Submuscular placement can provide a more natural look and feel, especially in women with little natural breast tissue. However, this method can involve a longer recovery period and a risk of animation deformity.
Subglandular placement can offer a quicker recovery and no risk of animation deformity, but it may result in more noticeable implant edges and ripples. It also carries a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture.
Dual plane placement, meanwhile, offers a balance between the other two methods. It can provide natural-looking results in a wide range of patients, including those with sagging breasts. However, the surgical procedure is more complex and requires a highly skilled surgeon.
Choosing the best option for your breast implant placement depends on a variety of factors: your body type, your breast anatomy, your desired outcome, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences. You should also consider Anthony’s expertise and recommendations.
The best way to make an informed decision is to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. It’s important to discuss your goals, expectations, and concerns, and to ask about the pros and cons of each placement option.
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