Choosing the Perfect Placement: Your Complete Guide to Above vs. Below the Muscle Breast Implant Options
When considering breast augmentation, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll face is where to place your implants. The choice between above-the-muscle (subglandular) and below-the-muscle (submuscular) placement can significantly impact your results, recovery, and long-term satisfaction. Understanding these options thoroughly will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your body type, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.
Understanding the Two Main Placement Options
Subglandular placement technique is where the implant is positioned between the chest muscle and the existing breast tissue areas, also known as “over-the-muscle” placement. The other option is known as submuscular, or under-the-muscle placement of the breast implant, where the implant is positioned beneath the pectoralis major muscle.
There’s also a third option called dual plane placement, which is a hybrid approach that situates the implant partially under the muscle and partially under the breast tissue. This technique combines benefits from both traditional placements and is increasingly popular among surgeons.
Above the Muscle (Subglandular) Placement
Subglandular placement offers several distinct advantages. Patients tend to have less movement of the implants during physical activity, as well as less discomfort immediately following the surgery. One of the main benefits of subglandular placement is a shorter, less invasive surgery with a faster recovery time.
This placement is particularly suitable for specific candidates. Above-the-muscle implants are more suitable for patients with substantial natural breast tissue who might want to get large breast implants. Women who have very large and/or strong chest muscles are better suited for over the muscle implant positioning, and women with more breast tissue are also better candidates for subglandular implant placement because their natural tissue can better hide their implants.
Additional benefits include chest muscles remain intact, therefore there is no loss of function or weakness, final results are usually achieved within a few weeks, and able to accommodate larger implants.
Below the Muscle (Submuscular) Placement
Submuscular placement has traditionally been the gold standard for many patients. Patients experience more accurate mammograms, and the submuscular placement tends to produce a more natural appearance, and a reduced rate of capsular contracture. This placement can provide additional soft tissue coverage for the implant, potentially leading to a more natural-looking outcome.
This option is ideal for certain patient profiles. Below the muscle implants might be a better option for patients who don’t have enough natural breast tissue or who don’t want a significant increase in breast size. This placement is often recommended for thin women with little natural breast tissue, as the muscle provides an additional layer of coverage for the implant, reducing the risk of visible implant edges and ripples.
However, there are some considerations. Some patients experience slightly more discomfort after surgery, with a longer postsurgical recovery. Additionally, there’s a phenomenon known as “animation deformity” that can occur with this placement, where when you flex your pectoral muscles, it can cause the implants to move, distorting the shape of your breasts temporarily.
Factors That Influence Your Choice
Several anatomical and lifestyle factors determine the best placement for you. Each individual patient will vary in the amount of muscle they have and this could be a factor in determining whether subglandular or submuscular placement is best. The anatomy of each patient must be factored in.
Your existing breast tissue plays a crucial role. Subglandular placement may not be an option for women with very little existing breast tissue, such as women with smaller breasts or those undergoing reconstructive surgery following a mastectomy. In cases where there is insufficient tissue to adequately cover the implants, submuscular placement is usually preferred.
For active individuals, placement choice becomes even more important. Women who are very athletic and active may choose subglandular implant placement in order to eliminate any chances of muscle weakness. Sometimes, a smaller implant with less projection can be a good compromise for these individuals.
Long-term Considerations
When planning for the future, consider how each placement might affect medical screenings. Unlike subglandular implant placement, submuscular implants are less likely to interfere with mammography results, though subglandular placement of implants may make routine mammogram screening more difficult, and patients are advised to see a specialist experienced with performing mammograms on patients with breast implants.
Capsular contracture rates also differ between placements. There is about a 30% incidence of capsular contracture with subglandular placement, compared to a 10% incidence in the case of submuscular placement, and submuscular placement reduces the risk of post-surgical capsular contracture.
Making Your Decision with Expert Guidance
Choosing between above and below the muscle placement requires careful consideration of your unique anatomy, lifestyle, and goals. Neither breast implant placement is preferable, and the decision is based on your natural anatomy and achieving your desired outcomes. Neither over or under the muscle Breast Augmentation is better than the other, and the best placement for breast implants is dependent on your natural anatomy and desired results.
If you’re considering Breast Augmentation Fairfield residents trust, it’s essential to consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific case. Dr. Chang Soo Kim, practicing in Stamford, Connecticut, brings extensive surgical experience and academic training to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Drawing from his extensive surgical experience and academic training, Dr. Chang Soo Kim MD provides his patients with comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He also dedicates himself to each patient, providing personalized, uncompromised care.
Dr. Kim’s cosmetic surgery techniques enhance one’s natural beauty without appearing artificial or overdone. Committed to reconstructive surgery with best possible functional and cosmetic results, he is capable of tailoring surgery to a patient’s specific needs and expectations. His practice serves patients throughout Fairfield County, offering the highest level of safety, privacy, and personalized attention.
The decision between above and below the muscle implant placement is highly individual and should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and recommend the best approach for your unique situation. Remember, the goal is not just immediate results, but long-term satisfaction and health.