Different Types of Breast Implant Placement for Breast Augmentation

Understanding the Different Types of Breast Implant Placement for Breast Augmentation

When planning for breast augmentation, a crucial decision is determining the placement of your implants. Understanding the differences between subglandular, submuscular, and subfascial techniques is essential, as each offers unique benefits, considerations, and recovery times depending on your desired outcome. At Maglic Plastic Surgery in Draper, Utah, Dr. Dino Maglic provides personalized consultations to help you explore your options and select the placement that best aligns with your body and aesthetic goals.

SUBGLANDULAR

Subglandular placement involves positioning the breast implant directly behind the breast tissue but above the chest muscles (pectoralis major). 

Benefits: 

• Shorter Recovery Time: Patients may experience less discomfort and a faster recovery compared to other placement options since the muscle is not involved. 
• Easier Access for Adjustments: If future adjustments or changes are needed, this placement allows easier access. 
• Enhanced Cleavage: For women with sufficient natural breast tissue, subglandular placement can create a fuller upper pole and more defined cleavage.

Considerations: 

• Less Natural Look in Thin Patients: For those with minimal breast tissue, the implants may be more noticeable, potentially leading to a less natural look. 
• Higher Risk of Capsular Contracture: There is a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens.

SUBMUSCULAR

Submuscular placement involves placing the implant partially or fully beneath the chest muscles. This technique is commonly referred to as “dual plane” placement, as the implant is placed beneath the pectoral muscle and partly under the breast tissue.

Benefits: 

• More Natural Appearance: This placement often results in a more natural slope and feel, especially for women with less natural breast tissue. 
• Reduced Risk of Rippling: The muscle helps to cover the implant, reducing the visibility of rippling or edges. 
• Lower Capsular Contracture Risk: The muscle placement has been associated with a lower risk of capsular contracture.

Considerations: 

• Longer Recovery Time: Because the muscle is involved, patients might experience more discomfort and a slightly longer recovery period. 
• Potential for Movement Distortion: In some cases, the implant may move or change shape when the chest muscles are flexed.

SUBFASCIAL

Subfascial placement is a technique where the implant is placed beneath the fascia, the thin tissue layer covering the chest muscle, but not beneath the muscle itself.

Benefits: 

• Balanced Aesthetic: Combines some benefits of subglandular and submuscular placements, offering a natural look without as much muscle involvement. 
• Quicker Recovery: Recovery is generally quicker than full submuscular placement, with less discomfort than dual plane placement.

Considerations: 

• Less Common: This technique is less commonly used, and long-term data on outcomes is more limited. 
• Surgeon Expertise Required: This placement requires a skilled surgeon with experience in this specific technique to achieve optimal results.

Choosing the Right Placement for You

The decision on implant placement is highly personal and should be made in consultation with Dr. Maglic. During your consultation at our Draper, Utah office, Dr. Maglic will assess your body type, breast tissue, skin elasticity, and desired outcome to recommend the best placement for your implants.

Key factors that might influence your decision include: 

1. Your Anatomy: Women with ample breast tissue may opt for subglandular placement, while those with less tissue might benefit more from submuscular placement. 
2. Activity Level: Athletes or women with highly active lifestyles may prefer subglandular or subfascial placement to avoid muscle distortion during physical activity. 
3. Desired Look: If a natural look and feel are your priority, submuscular placement may be the best choice.

At Maglic Plastic Surgery, we are committed to helping you achieve the breast augmentation results you desire. Whether you opt for subglandular, submuscular, or subfascial placement, Dr. Maglic's expertise ensures that your procedure is tailored to your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward the look you've always wanted.