Breast augmentation: How is the implant inserted?

With a Breast augmentation offers the option of placing the implants over the pectoral muscle (subglandular), under the pectoral muscle (submuscular) or under the muscle fascia (subfascial).

All surgical techniques have their advantages and disadvantages. Which surgical method is best for the patient depends on individual factors and is defined in a detailed consultation with the operating surgeon before the operation.

“Every patient is different. The possible treatment method must be decided individually, tailored to the physical circumstances of the patient”  Dr. med. Georg Noever

1. Subglandulär: Implants over the pectoral muscle

The subglandular operation describes the positioning of the implant on the pectoral muscle. After the incision, the breast tissue is lifted and an implant pocket is formed into which the breast implant can be inserted. This positioning of the implant offers the greatest scope for appearance and effect.

When using silicone implants, the (subglandular) insertion of the implants on the breast muscle looks very natural in patients with more of their own breast tissue. Positioning the implant directly under the mammary gland corresponds most closely to the shape of the female breast and can therefore also achieve the best result when lifting sagging breasts.

To position the implant on the pectoral muscle, the mammary gland must be large enough to completely cover the implant. Otherwise it would be palpable.

Advantages

• For women with more of their own breast tissue, a very natural appearance can be achieved
• Especially in the case of sagging breasts;Very good results can be achieved
• Faster healing process than with positioning under the pectoral muscle

Disadvantages

• For very slim women with little breast tissue of their own, there is a risk of an unnatural appearance
• ;appearance
• With little breast tissue of their own, implant rings can form. The implant is then clearly visible and palpable

2. Subfascial: Implants between the pectoral muscle and muscle fascia

In subfascial surgery, the implant is placed between the muscle and the muscle fascia and thus positioned under the muscle skin. The surgeon also lifts the thin layer of connective tissue on the chest wall muscles and places the implant between the muscle and fascia.

This allows a more natural-looking result to be achieved than with positioning in front of the chest muscle, as the very thin layer of tissue provides additional protection and covers the implants. The implants are also less palpable with this positioning.

However, due to the thin thickness of the muscle skin, which corresponds to a fiber-rich tissue of 1-2 mm, placing the implant under the muscle skin is not as effective in terms of coverage as placing the implant under the muscle.

By anchoring the implant in the muscle, the implant can be held in place without having to move the muscle. The subfascial position of the implant can reduce the risk of capsular fibrosis, as the implant is held in a firm implant socket.

 3. Submusculär: Implants under the pectoral muscle

The submuscular positioning of the implant is often used in very slim women with little breast tissue of their own. This variant produces the most natural appearance in women with little breast tissue, as there is more tissue between the implant and the skin.

The implant is well protected under the pectoral muscle and is more difficult to feel and see due to its position. This is particularly important for women with small breasts, as the edges of an implant positioned subglandularly (on the pectoral muscle) would be visible on the skin.

After breast augmentation, there is a greater possibility of swelling if the implant is positioned submuscularly, as the large pectoral muscle has to be loosened during the operation. The healing process is also somewhat more protracted.

We use the most modern technique of submuscular placement: the so-called „Dual Plane“ method

Experience has shown that the position of the pectoral muscle edge on the implant determines whether or not unpleasant movements of the implants occur after the operation when the muscles are tensed. If the muscle is too low on the implant, the implant is pulled outwards when the muscle is tensed; if the muscle is too high, it pushes the breast flat at the top. However, if the muscle edge is placed exactly over the half of the implant, the beautiful breast shape is maintained even when the muscle is tensed.

Changes when the muscle is tensed are barely visible.

The half of the implant is different for every breast and implant shape. It therefore requires very precise planning before the operation and a great deal of precision during the operation.

Advantages

• Implant deformities are less visible in very slim women, as the implant is well protected under the pectoral muscle
• The implant contour is very discreet. The implant is less noticeable

Disadvantages

• Higher risk of swelling, as the large pectoral muscle has to be loosened during the operation
• The shape of the breast can change as a result of constant consultation with the pectoral muscle. This method is therefore not recommended for ambitious athletes

Further information on breast implants:

• Round or teardrop-shaped implants?
• Must breast implants be changed?
• Which breast implants are used at Breast Atelier?
• Can breast implants make you ill (e.g. cancer)?

A breast surgery at Breast Atelier: Quality surgery at a transparent fixed price

The Breast Atelier's team of doctors consists of specialists with several years of professional experience who work under the medical supervision of Dr. med. Cédric A. George, the founder of the Pyramid Clinic (today Plastic Surgery Pyramid), which is renowned far beyond the country's borders. His Center for Plastic Surgery, which is now one of the market leaders in Switzerland, has set the standards in terms of quality and reliability in plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.

Under the patronage of the Plastic Surgery Pyramid, these standards are also accessible to a wider audience in the Breast Atelier. Our specialists in plastic surgery are the guarantors of quality surgery.

Book your free consultation appointment

Arrange your free consultation appointment directly online to get all your questions answered and see the Breast Atelier for yourself. Our specialist doctors are at your disposal. Benefit from our 3D visualization technology (for breast augmentation) and our detailed medical assessment.