Should Your Breast Implants Be Under or Over the Muscle?
One of the most common cosmetic treatments is breast augmentation, which gives women the chance to increase the size of their bust and boost their confidence. Choosing whether to position the implants over the muscle (subglandular) or beneath it (submuscular) is one of the most important choices during this procedure. Each placement option has pros and cons, and the best solution will vary depending on lifestyle, body type, and aesthetic preferences. The types of breast implants, differences between implant placements, and how to choose the ideal placement for you will all be covered in this article.
Types of Breast Implants
There are different types of breast implants, each with pros and cons. You can get a specific type depending on your preference and your surgeon’s recommendation.
1. Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that resembles the natural tissue, giving the impression of more natural tissue. Because of their smooth form, they are frequently preferred by women with minimal breast tissue. If the silicone bursts, it can stay in the scar tissue, necessitating routine examinations by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
2. Gummy Bear Breast Implants
Even if the exterior shell is destroyed, these incredibly cohesive gummy bear breast implants keep their shape. They significantly reduce rippling and provide fullness to the upper pole, making them an ideal choice for women with minimal natural breast tissue.
3. Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants, which are made with sterile salt water during the breast implant operation, allow for smaller incisions and size modifications. Although they work well for some women, those with smaller breasts might feel firmer or see apparent rippling. Because they increase volume to sagging breasts without adding undue weight, they are ideal for women who are combining breast augmentation with a breast lift.
A board-certified plastic surgeon will evaluate your breast tissue quantity and suggest the ideal implant for your requirements. The location of specific muscles, such as those under the pectoralis major muscle, can also affect results.
Comprehending Implant Positioning
There are two main places to put breast implants in a breast augmentation surgery.
Submuscular Placement (Under the Muscle)
In submuscular placement, the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis major muscle to increase implant coverage.
Subglandular Placement (Over the Muscle)
The implant is placed closer to the skin, above the muscle, and below the mammary gland. Because each choice has unique medical and aesthetic advantages, one must consider the advantages and disadvantages before choosing one.
Benefits of Submuscular Positioning
A standard recommendation is submuscular implantation, particularly for women with little natural breast tissue. Among the advantages are:
Natural Look
Submuscular implantation tends to produce a more natural slope to the breast because more tissue surrounds the implant, lessening the possibility of noticeable rippling or artificial fullness at the top.
Reduced Capsular Contracture Risk
When the body produces too much scar tissue around the implant, it causes capsular contracture, which causes hardness and deformation. Studies have shown that this risk is decreased when implants are positioned behind the muscle because the breast tissue is less exposed to microorganisms.
Better Mammogram Visibility
Since the implant is placed under the muscle, it does not interfere as much with mammograms, making breast cancer screenings more effective.
Long-Term Stability
Implants placed under the muscle are less likely to sag over time due to the additional support from the muscle, which can help maintain their shape and position for a longer period.
Submuscular Placement Drawbacks
Although submuscular placement has several advantages, there are drawbacks as well:
A More Extended Period of Recuperation
Recovery from the treatment is generally lengthier and more painful than subglandular insertion because it entails manipulating the chest muscles.
Muscle Contraction and Implant Movement
When extending their chest muscles, some women notice movement or distortion of the implants. This movement can be problematic for people who are very physically active, especially bodybuilders and weightlifters.
More Initial Unease
Patients may feel additional tightness and discomfort because the muscle is stretched after surgery.
Subglandular Placement Benefits
Depending on the goals and anatomy of the individual, subglandular placement may be an appropriate option. Among its advantages are:
Reduced Pain and Quicker Recuperation
Compared to submuscular placement, patients usually recover quicker and have less postoperative discomfort because the pectoral muscles are not used during the process.
Better for Bodybuilders and Athletes
Subglandular implantation removes the possibility of implant deformation during chest muscle flexion for women who participate in vigorous physical activity.
Greater Dramatic Fullness of the Upper Pole
Subglandular placement of breast implants might offer a rounder, augmented appearance that some women like, particularly if they want pronounced cleavage and fuller upper breasts.
Subglandular Placement Drawbacks
Subglandular placement has significant downsides despite its advantages:
Increased Capsular Contracture Risk
Compared to submuscular implantation, there is a somewhat increased risk of capsular contracture because the implants are closer to the breast tissue.
Increased Implant Rippling Visibility
Implants positioned above the muscle may cause noticeable rippling or edges in women with less natural breast tissue, making the augmentation appear less natural.
A Higher Chance of Sagging With Time
Implants positioned above the muscle may be more likely to sag without the extra support the muscle provides, particularly as the skin becomes less elastic with time.
More Mammography Interference
Breast cancer screenings may become more difficult as a result of subglandular implants’ ability to mask mammography results.
Things to Consider When Selecting an Implant Location
The following criteria should be taken into account while choosing between submuscular and subglandular placement:
Natural Breast Tissue Amount
Submuscular insertion is frequently advantageous for women with less natural breast tissue because it improves implant coverage and creates a more natural appearance. Subglandular placement may work well for people with more natural breast tissue.
The Intended Aesthetic Result
Submuscular implantation is usually preferable for a more modest augmentation and natural slope. Subglandular placement is preferable for a fuller, rounder appearance with better cleavage.
Activity Level and Lifestyle
Bodybuilders, athletes, and women in physically demanding occupations may prefer subglandular placement to prevent implant movement. People who don’t engage in much physical activity might not care about this problem and choose submuscular placement.
Long-Term Maintenance and Risk Tolerance
Submuscular placement may be preferred for women who value long-term stability and reduced risks of capsular contracture problems.
Subglandular placement may be chosen by those who desire a more straightforward procedure and recuperation; however, it is at the potential risk of more significant dangers in the future.
The Surgeon’s Advice
A board-certified plastic surgeon will assess your breast tissue, skin elasticity, and body type to determine the best treatment plan. A comprehensive consultation can help resolve any issues and offer a tailored suggestion.
What Is Your Ideal Breast Implant Placement?
The decision to place breast implants submuscularly or subglandularly is very personal and is influenced by your anatomy, cosmetic preferences, way of life, and risk tolerance.
Submuscular implantation has a lengthier recovery period and the possibility of implant movement. However, it also provides a more natural look, lowers the risk of problems, and improves long-term stability. Conversely, subglandular placement is better suited for athletes, offers a faster recovery, and increases upper pole fullness, but it has a higher chance of sagging and noticeable rippling with time.
Get Safe Breast Implant Procedures at Jim Brantner M.D.
If you are considering getting a breast implant procedure, consult with Jim Brantner M.D., our expert plastic surgeon in Johnson City who can help you make the best decision for your body and goals.
With decades of experience, we specialize in breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction surgeries. So if you are in Tennessee, visit us or call 423-328-9000 to book a consultation!
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