Breast Augmentation Surgery – Types of Incisions and Implants

Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure in which the patient, in most cases a woman, would undergo to supplement the current size or shape of her bosom. There are actually several types of surgeries that focus on the alteration of the breast but this kind usually employs the use of implants to achieve its goal. General anesthesia is used, since there is sure to be a certain amount of incisions and activity during the operation.

The Incisions: Periareolar, Inframammary and Transaxillary

There are three basic types of incisions that are usually used when implanting breasts with either silicone or saline filled materials. These three include periareolar, inframammary and transaxillary cuts. The names of the cuts correspond with the location where they are supposed to be made.

Periareolar is a cut made around the areola while inframammary is an opening made at the crease of the breast's bottom and transaxillary is one made nearer to the armpit. The choice of these incisions will be dependent on the kind of implant the patient prefers as well as what type of anatomical presentation one has and how large should be the augmentation.

One other thing to consider is the placement of the implants. The two choices are under the pectoral muscle or over it. Many doctors advise the location to be under the pectoral muscle since this is safer but may not be the location for optimum augmentation. Doctor's advice with regards to the factors that influence the incisions and locations during the surgery should be considered by the patient carefully.

The Implants: Saline or Silicone

A large part of the surgery is the embedded particle itself. There are two options; the saline and the silicone filled shells. Saline filled shells are filled with sterilized salt water. The amount of water in the shells will dictate the size of the breast, the shape of it and the firmness as well. Saline is safer than silicone when it comes to leaking since it can be easily absorbed by the body and then naturally expelled.

Silicone filled shells look and feel more natural than saline filled ones. The problem with them is that they are not absorbed by the body when they leak and may cause some toxicity if left in the body for too long. Patients who opt for silicone gel are advised to have regular checkups with their surgeon with regards the state of their embedded particle in the body.